Seventy one members of the Cornwall Youth Brass Band recently assembled just 48 hours after Christmas Day for their four day residential course under the baton of guest conductor Steve Sykes.

Intensive

The course, held at Truro High School for Girls, involved intensive full band and sectional rehearsals taken by Steve, with the support of the band’s local tutors, including Joanne Sykes, who accompanied her husband, as did their son, Carlton, who sat in to assist the bass section.

The course, held at Truro High School for Girls, involved intensive full band and sectional rehearsals taken by Steve, with the support of the band’s local tutors4BR

Guest soloist

Steve’s eldest son, Stephen, was the guest soloist and inspired the young musicians with his outstanding performances – including a wonderful rendition of Gordon Langford’s ‘Rhapsody for Trombone’.

The Tredegar star also performed pieces in tribute to the great Don Lusher, all of which were warmly appreciated by the large audience at the end of course concert at St Michael’s Church, Newquay.

Following the course the band met for its first rehearsal in preparation for the 2013 Easter Course under the baton of Paul Lovatt-Cooper.