Smithy Bridge Primary, the current Beginners Band National Champion of Great Britain, has just returned in triumph from their appearance at the National Music for Youth Festival at Symphony Hall in Birmingham.

Fourth year

For the fourth consecutive year the band won a special NUT Sponsors Award at the prestigious event under the direction of MD, Lee Rigg.

The band lined up with seven others from around the country after gaining an invitation to perform at the festival following a regional event in March.

Delighted

A delighted Lee told 4BR that he was very proud of his young players.

"They were brilliant. They work so hard and enjoy playing so much that it was a real pleasure to take them on stage. I think I was more nervous than any of them though – I just couldn’t believe the smiles that were being beamed my way to put me at ease!"

I think I was more nervous than any of them though – I just couldn’t believe the smiles that were being beamed my way to put me at ease!Lee Rigg

Memorable day

The success was only part of a memorable day for Lee and the Wardle School organisation, which many of the Smithy Bridge players move to when they are old enough.

The Wardle Junior Band performed in the afternoon to claim a sponsor’s award, whilst there were also excellent appearances by the wind band and school band.

According to the event mentors, Wardle produced a 'businesslike approach delivered with precision' performance that was highlighted by the premiere of a new composition for the band entitled, 'Get Set Go' by composer Jonathan Bates.