4BR has been informed of the death of Denise Scott, who over many years contributed greatly to the development of youth brass banding in the West Midlands.

Accomplished

An accomplished euphonium player in her own right, Denise played for many bands in the Black Country, including Halesowen Brass, Wolverhampton Brass, Tudor Brass, Black Country Brass and Stourport-on-Severn.

In 1995 Denise formed ‘Brass Futures’, a youth band where she taught the majority of the players herself.

Fantastic organisation

The band began with only 4 players and grew to a 30 strong ensemble over 10 years with a full concert schedule that invariably played to ‘full house’ venues, due to the fantastic organisation and dedication of Denise herself.

The band had a wide age range from 7-15 and found great success at the annual Dudley Music Festival where Denise prepared both the band and individual soloists for the various categories of competition.

Teaching

Denise continued to teach children for many years and undertook brass teaching in local primary schools at her own expense, generously buying and lending out instruments to the young players.

A family spokesperson told 4BR: "She made a great impact on her young players, with many still playing today, all of whom were prepared very well for performing by a dedicated and caring conductor who taught the majority of them from their very first note on an instrument.

Our thoughts are with her immediate family, her sister Jan and her brother Steven and their families at this difficult time."

Funeral details

The funeral will take place at Gornal Crematorium, Chase Rd, Dudley DY3 2RL on Tuesday 19th November at 11:30am.

Friends and past pupils alike are more than welcome to attend.