Derwent Brass recently led a free workshop day of concert entertainment entitled ‘Brass Spectacular’ at Burton Town Hall in the Midlands.

Host of delegates

The event saw a host of delegates welcomed by Derwent MD Keith Leonard as well as event leaders euphonium virtuoso Steve Mead and composer Paul McGhee.

Steven and Paul worked with the large group throughout the day, with Steven highlighting invaluable performance and rehearsal techniques and Paul providing a wonderful insight into how the mind of a contemporary award winning composer works.

Inspired and constructed

Paul’s approach to harmonisation techniques and effects most recently used on his euphonium work ‘Kjeden’ performed by Glenn van Looy with Manger Musikklag at the 2012 BrassWind Festival in Norway revealed just how major contemporary works are both inspired and constructed.

Exceptional day

A spokesperson for Keele University Brass Band who attended the day, told 4BR: "The workshop organised by Derwent Brass was a great success. Our thanks go to them for this exceptional day and we hope this may become part of their annual events."

The day ended with an evening concert featuring Derwent Brass, Steven and a performance by the workshop ensemble. Steven was on tremendous form with his contributions and the band also give an outstanding performance of Derwent’s 20th anniversary celebration work, written by Paul entitled, ‘Episodes, Occurences & Interludes’.

The workshop organised by Derwent Brass was a great success. Our thanks go to them for this exceptional day and we hope this may become part of their annual eventsKeele University Brass Band

Impressed

Steven told 4BR: "I really enjoyed teaming up with Derwent Brass to help them celebrate their 20th anniversary. I am so impressed by their organisation, planning and vision in putting together this special concert and the workshop which was enjoyed by so many.

They are a great example of a band that has an excellent team spirit, a clear sense of direction and play very well indeed!"

Next year

Following the success and positive questionnaire feedback given by the workshop attendees, Derwent Brass hope to organise a similar event in the future to encourage up and coming musicians of the Midlands area and beyond.