Bolsover District Council recently added to its successful brass band profile by hosting its second Brass Summer School.

State of the art

The course was attended by delegates from throughout the UK and Europe, and has seen a significant growth of numbers since its inauguration in 20012.

This year it was held at the newly built Heritage School complex in Clowne, Derbyshire which enjoys state of the art technology and rehearsal and concert facilities.

Champion tutors

Delegates were tutored by the principal players from the 2012 ‘Double Champions,’ Foden’s, featuring Mark Wilkinson and Glyn Williams as co-directors of the course, ably supported by Helen Williams, John Barber, Stewart Baglin and Mark Landon.

Delegates also had the opportunity to meet Paul Sharman (Composer in Residence for 2013) who gave a short talk on his ideas behind his work composed for the course entitled ‘Inclusion’.

Paul is currently a member of the International Staff Band of the Salvation Army and has numerous works to his credit for band and choral ensemble.

Workshops and concerts

The delegates also participated in several concerts throughout the week, with appearances at the World Heritage site Creswell Crags and the historic National Trust property at Hardwick Hall with the final end of course concert at the Heritage School performing to a capacity audience.

There was also the opportunity for the players to perform in the ‘Delegates Showcase’ concert featuring solo and ensemble performances accompanied on piano by John Barber.

In addition the tutors entertained by performing a short concert of solos and ensemble pieces.

Jazz development

In an exciting new development the course introduced a highly enjoyable ‘Jazz & Improvisation’ session led by John Barber, where delegates were invited to improvise on a given chord sequence, whilst conducting workshops were led by Glyn Williams.

Sparke for 2014

Next year’s 2014 Bolsover Brass Summer School will feature composer Philip Sparke who has been commissioned to compose a piece to commemorate the centenary of the First World War and who will also be giving a one-day composing course which will be offered to external candidates who wish to take advantage of Philip’s breadth of experience.

The Summer School has already had numerous applications for the 2014 session and we are confident that this success will build year upon yearArts Officer Carole Crompton

Great success

Carole Crompton, Arts Officer for Bolsover District Council commented to 4BR: "This year has been a great success, with the delegates and tutors working very intensively throughout the week."

Carole added: "The Summer School has already had numerous applications for the 2014 session and we are confident that this success will build year upon year."