Black Dyke stars Richard Marshall and Gary Curtin have just returned from France where they led young players at the very first Brass Band Academy in the small town of Douai near Lille.

Partnership

The event was a result of an innovative partnership between the two well established brass bands in the North of France — Brass Band Nord-Pas-de-Calais and Brass Band of Douai.

Their respective conductors Philippe Lorthios and Olivier Degardin recognised that the future development of French brass banding should be built on a long term investment in youth — and so with the help and assistance of Besson Musical Instruments they brought the two Black Dyke stars over the lead the exciting three day course.

Tips

Over 100 young players attended, exploring new repertoire and learning invaluable tips from Gary and Richard as they performed in ensembles, full band rehearsals at three different levels and masterclass tuition.

Our thanks go to Vincent Nackaert from Besson who enabled us to link up with Gary and Richard and to put on this wonderful occasionSpokesperson Jean-Luc Petitprez

Besson thanks

Spokesperson Jean-Luc Petitprez told 4BR: "Our thanks go to Vincent Nackaert from Besson who enabled us to link up with Gary and Richard and to put on this wonderful occasion.

We feel that the future for French brass banding is very good — and with so many young people wishing to play a part we now hope to build on this exciting foundation."