Brenden Breslin, who plays BBb tuba and percussion in the Irish Police Band, as well as conducting the well respected amateur Dublin Symphony Orchestra, has won the 2016 National Association of Brass Band Conductor's, 'Conducting Competition'.

Prize

The 35 year old received a cheque for £600 and the Roy Newsome Shield after beating off the strong challenge of 11 fellow finalists at the recent day-long event held at Bertie's Bistro in Elland, Yorkshire (above).

The victory has just rounded off a memorable period for the father of four after he just completed his Masters in Composition and Conducting at the Royal Irish Academy of Music.

Finalists

After the morning preliminaries, six conductors were chosen to go through to the final by adjudicators Russell Gray and Paul Hoskins, Musical Director of the Rambert Dance Company.

There they had to work with Eccles Borough Band on a selected part one of three works: 'Essay' by Edward Gregson, 'Tallis Variations' by Philip Sparke or 'Traversada' by Oliver Waespi.

Elements

Different elements of the art of conducting were looked at by Paul and Russell in making their choice — from time management, preparation, score knowledge, gestures and rapport to essential clear and precise baton technique, with each of the finalists, Mark Edwards, Rob Richardson, Matt Shaw, Gary Perrin, James Kerlie and Bernard Breslin impressing the judges as well as the small but supportive audience.

Each also had to conduct Eccles Borough Band on concert music as diverse as 'Serenade' by Derek Bourgeois to 'Mac & Mabel', 'The Witch of the Westmerlands' and 'The Incredibles', with other music also featured during the concert presentation.

The 35 year old received a cheque for £600 and the Roy Newsome Shield after beating off the strong challenge of 11 fellow finalists4BR

Qualities

Bernard showcased his qualities to take the honours — which also includes the opportunity to work with the likes of Foden's, Carlton Main, Reg Vardy and Whitburn Bands.

Fairey Band baritone player Rob Richardson was awarded second place with the opportunity to work with the Eccles Band in the future.

image courtesy of Paul Hindmarsh