As part of their preparation for the forthcoming North Wales Championship, Deiniolen Youth Band enjoyed a full day's masterclass with Tredegar MD Ian Porthouse.

Put through paces

Ian made the trip up from south Wales to once again link up the band from just outside Caernarfon to put them through their paces as they prepare for the own-choice contest to be held in Ruthin on Saturday 21st of November.

Welcome back

Deiniolen Youth MD Osian Tomos told 4BR: "We were delighted to welcome Ian back. He has worked with the band before as part of the Iwan Williams Scholarship, and we couldn't wait to get him back again.

The members loved every minute. Ian's got great enthusiasm which was passed on to the band who are now eager to show off their talents at the contest. Hopefully we can work together again in the future.

We would like to thank everyone who supported the event and the John Thorpe Memorial grant that enable it to take place."

Tredegar's principal cornet player Dewi Griffiths keeps telling me just how good the youngsters are up here and he's not wrongIan Porthouse

Great to return

Ian added: "It great to come up to Deiniolen and work with a great bunch of people. There is a wealth of playing talent here which is being developed with real care and dedication.

Tredegar's principal cornet player Dewi Griffiths keeps telling me just how good the youngsters are up here and he's not wrong. I'm sure they are going to give a brilliant performance at the contest."