Tutors from Foden’s Band have recently returned from the 12th Annual Armagh Old Boys’ Summer School.

Over 100 delegates

Richard Poole, Ian Raisbeck, Lesley Howie, Natsumi McDonald, Shaun Farrington, Stewart Baglin, Anthony Mann and conductors Michael Fowles and Mark Bousie worked with over 100 delegates in the week long course.

There were master classes, sectionals and performances given by the Fodens tutor team, whilst one of the highlights of the week was the ‘Young Soloists’ night which saw the Foden’s players accompany over 25 solos, duets and quartets from the excellent musicians.

Stunning performances

The week concluded with the Saturday night gala concert which featured two stunning performances by the Summer School Band before they joined forces for the massed items of ‘Star Lake’, ‘Hymn to Barossa’ and ‘Procession to the Minster’.

The eagerly contested end of course awards went to Stevenson (Best over 25), Julie Ann Stevenson (Most endeavour), Darren Gibson (Most Improved player) and Sam Brodison (Foden’s Award – Player of the Course).

Thanks must go to Ivor Stephenson and his tireless team of helpers who work all year round to ensure that the summer school, and February visit of Foden’s run smoothly every yearMark Wilkinson

Thanks

Foden’s Mark Wilkinson told 4BR: "Thanks must go to Ivor Stephenson and his tireless team of helpers who work all year round to ensure that the summer school, and February visit of Foden’s run smoothly every year."