Musn Ailsa Russell of The Band of the Prince of Wales Division — who also plays solo horn for National Champion, Cory — was recently invited to perform at Pembrokeshire School's Brass Band's annual concert.

Outreach

The band was formed five years ago and brings together pupils aged 11-18 from schools across the county.

The visit was also part of the outreach programme by the Prince of Wales Band to inform youngsters about the possible career options a professional British Army musician can offer — with Ailsa (above) a shining example of how that career can be enhanced by high level involvement with brass bands.

Just brilliant

Conductor Matthew Jenkins, who is also the MD of First Section National Champion, Goodwick, told 4BR: "Having a fantastic player such as Ailsa visit us here in Pembrokeshire was just brilliant. Ailsa's enthusiasm for music making and her playing was inspirational."

The Band of the Prince of Wales Division plans to visit Pembrokeshire again in 2016 as well as make regular tour stops to other parts of the country with a series of concerts and workshops.

Having a fantastic player such as Ailsa visit us here in Pembrokeshire was just brilliant. Ailsa's enthusiasm for music making and her playing was inspirationalMD, Matthew Jenkins

Recruiting

The band is also presently recruiting quality brass players who are interested in a full time career as a musician in the Army or a part time career in the reserves.