*
banner

First sight benefits for Salford students

An innovative sight-reading day for student players and conductors has just been undertaken at Salford University with the help of The Band of the King's Division.

kINGS dIVISON
 

The University of Salford recently held their first ever sight-reading day, where a variety of pieces were chosen by staff and students of the Musical Arts Programme aided by The Band of the King's Division (above), led by Captain Stewart Halliday.

Collision Theory

It started with the Salford University Band looking at new material for their 'Collision Theory' concert on 17th February, whilst later, they were joined by musicians from both the Adelphi and King's Division to play through demanding repertoire such as 'Diversions on a Bass Theme', before student conductors each worked on a section of 'Paganini Variations'.

The student conductors also enjoyed the opportunity to work through pieces that will form the basis of their exam material for semester 2, including 'Royal Parks', 'Suite Gothique', 'Scheherazade' and 'Solar Eclipse'.

Excellent opportunity

The day provided an excellent opportunity for students to see the Band of the King's Division in action and appreciate their high level of professionalism and musicianship.

Valued skill

Director of Music, Captain Halliday also offered advice to each conductor on a day considered a great success by all those involved.

He told 4BR: "Sight-reading is a highly valued skill — and especially within Army music. We undertake a huge number of engagements and as a result, rehearsal time is often at a premium. Good sight-reading allows quicker progression during rehearsal and creates a more enjoyable, productive musical experience.

I was very impressed by the level of enthusiasm shown by the students and I would like to thank Brett Baker for inviting The Band of The King's Division to take part.

We look forward to developing a great relationship with Salford University in which both organisations can enjoy mutual benefit."

The day was really productive, and I'm so pleased that the partnership with The King's Division enhances our work here at SalfordBrett Baker, Programme Leader for Musical Arts

Enhances work

Brett Baker, Programme Leader for Musical Arts replied: "The day was really productive, and I'm so pleased that the partnership with The King's Division enhances our work here at Salford.

We are now looking forward to composer Paul Lovatt Cooper visiting on Friday 12th February to work with student conductors and composers."

Become a supporter and help make our future secure.

4barsrest continues to be a proudly independent voice. There are no paywalls to overcome to be able to enjoy what we do to keep our journalism at the heart of the brass banding world. Support us with a one-off donation or subscribe from just £2.50 per month.

Support us    


Cumbria

Youth places up for grabs in Cumbria

July 23 • There are still places to be filled for a cracking youth led course at Sedburgh School next month.


Riverside Youth Band

Warm welcome and hot playing for Riverside Youth

July 23 • Young players wishing to take their first steps on their banding journey are being encouraged to give things a buzz with Riverside Youth Band.


Radio

Radio: Touch of Brass

July 23 • From ABBA to Slavonic Dance over the airwaves with Martin Upfold and Julie Hedge this weekend.


Rodney Newton

80th birthday concert celebration for Newton

July 19 • Rodney Newton will enjoy a musical celebration of his birthday this weekend in Cambridge.


Petworth Town Band - Ebernoe Horn Fair

Friday 25 July • Ebernoe Cricket Ground GU28 9LD


Petworth Town Band - Dorset House School Fete

Saturday 26 July • Dorset House School RH20 1PB


Haverhill Silver Band - A Nightingale Sang... (an evening concert)

Saturday 2 August • Foakes Hall, Dunmow CM6 1DG


Haverhill Silver Band - East Anglian Beer & Cider Festival

Sunday 24 August • St Edmundsbury Cathedral, Bury St Edmunds IP33 1QX


Haverhill Silver Band - Concert in Saffron Hall

Wednesday 27 August • Saffron Hall, Audley End Road, Saffron Walden, Essex CB11 4UH


Bilton Silver Rugby Band

July 23 • Moving to the West Midlands this autumn or fancy a change of bandroom scenery? . The band are looking to recruit a 2nd Euphonium and a Kit Percussionist to help us with our varied and ever expanding range of events.


Bilton Silver Rugby Band

July 23 • With a varied upcoming programme of events and following on from our successful "Musicals" concert and first ever trip to Saddleworth for Whit Friday, the band requires an Eb Bass player to join our group.


Tewit Silver Band

July 23 • Tewit Silver Band is looking for a talented and committed Solo Cornet player to join our dedicated team as we build towards the Scottish Open 25 and beyond. Based in Huby- between Leeds, Bradford, and Harrogate, 5 mins walk from Weeton Station.


Sarah Groarke-Booth

BA (Hons) MA
Conductor, Adjudicator, Compere, Actor


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd