Former Tredegar solo euphonium player Byron ‘Buzz’ Newton has had a busy start to 2013 after appearing as guest soloist and euphonium/baritone tutor with the first ever National Australia Brass Youth Band (NABYB) and the National Youth Brass Band of New Zealand (NYBBNZ).

In addition he has also started in his new role as solo euphonium, Assistant MD, and Band Coordinator with the Wellington Brass Band.

Flight

Last month Buzz flew to Brisbane then hopped on a train through to Tallebudgera on the Gold Coast where he was greeted by the Musical Director for NABYB 2013, Professor David King.

Buzz told 4BR: "Professor King ran a brilliant course where everyone involved learnt so much from his expertise — including myself. To be involved in the first youth band was something special and the talent in the band was second to none."

Tutor

As well as tutoring the six euphoniums and three baritones, Buzz also performed a mini recital class during the five days of the course, as well as performing, ‘Harlequin’ by Philip Sparke at a trio of free concerts put on by the 44 strong youth band.

On return to his new home in Wellington, Buzz was soon back on a flight to Dunedin to be a tutor on New Zealand’s Youth Brass Band course.

To be involved in the first youth band was something special and the talent in the band was second to noneByron Newton

Tour

Directed by Peter Adams, the 33 players toured the South Island visiting Roxburgh, Invercargill and Dunedin.

Buzz performed four solo pieces with the band, including the showpiece, ‘Greek Dance’ from Philip Wilby’s ‘Euphonium Concerto’.

Honour

He added: "It was a huge honour for me to perform with New Zealand’s best young musicians. The course lasted just over a week and included a visit by Dr Robert Childs. The band was really lifted by his arrival, especially as he then conducted two pieces in the first concert.

The band was very fortunate to have him visit. I had to travel all the way to the UK to study with him and David Childs at the Royal Welsh College!"