Players both young and old of Test Valley Brass recently enjoyed a packed day of tuition from well known conductor Chris Wormald.

Tips and advice

The Smithills School Band MD was invited to help inspire members from all parts of the Test Valley organisation with the type of advice, tips, band management and encouragement that has made Smithills into one of the leading youth bands in the country.

Chris expertly organised the day to balance fun with hard work — making sure basics such tuning and intonation, dynamics and balance, rhythm and style were addressed in a relaxed and productive atmosphere — interspersed with plenty of jokes and stories.

It was a fantastic day. This is the first masterclass we have had with a conductor instead of an instrumentalist and it’s been an absolute revelationTest Valley Brass

Fantastic day

Test Valley Brass Chairman, Peter Heslop told 4BR: "It was a fantastic day. This is the first masterclass we have had with a conductor instead of an instrumentalist and it’s been an absolute revelation.

We had a brilliant time and everyone without exception has gone away buzzing with excitement and renewed enthusiasm — and wanting to know when Chris is coming back!"