28 young brass players aged between 8 and 17, recently met in Aldbourne, Wiltshire for the inaugural ‘Brass Tactics’ course.

Led by the respected conductor David Hayward and organised on behalf of the Aldbourne Band with the help of players, friends and retired bandsmen, the day drew participants from Aldbourne, Swindon Pegasus, Wantage, Bath Spa, Great Western Youth, Cricklade, Ramsbury and Cold Ash bands, plus a number of unattached players.

Invaluable advice

The event saw David give invaluable advice on technique and performance skills, all aided by plenty of fun (with a great game of British Bulldog in the break), laughter and playing.

David also shared a little of the history of brass banding and even how it could one day see them donning the stage at the famous Glastonbury Festival as he has done in his youth!

Eric Ball

The talented young players also got to work on Eric Ball’s iconic ‘Indian Summer’ test piece — with one bandsman finding that the great man had actually autographed his part in the distant past.

David told 4BR that he thoroughly enjoyed leading the innovative day, and was very impressed by the talent and commitment of the young players who came along.

The talented young players also got to work on Eric Ball’s iconic ‘Indian Summer’ test piece — with one bandsman finding that the great man had actually autographed his part in the distant past4BR

Positive feedback

“With young players from the age of 8 to 17, new friendships were formed across bands,” he said.

“My thanks go to a fantastic team of volunteer helpers who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make for a very successful day all round. The musical talent of show was so encouraging.”

After overwhelmingly positive feedback, the Aldbourne Band now hopes to make ‘Brass Tactics’ into a regular annual event.