More than 200 people recently came from all parts of the Cotswolds to join in the first ever 'Cotswold Edge Festival of Brass' in Dursley, with the aim of fostering enthusiasm for brass music making in musicians of the southern Gloucestershire area.

Professionals

The event took place at the Rednock School and Chantry Centre, where the participants, aged from 8 to 80, and of varying abilities, were split into three groups for the workshops and expert tuition from a trio of highly respected professional musicians.

Alan Swain, from the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama, tutored the advanced group, whilst Philip J. Anderson, a visiting music teacher across many local schools throughout Gloucestershire & Wiltshire led the intermediates. Meanwhile, Chris White-Horne, a tutor with Thornbury Area Youth Music Service got the beginners group off to a flying start.

Advice and guidance

Each group was given advice and guidance whilst rehearsing a piece of music for an informal evening concert, whilst the delegates were also joined by players from Wotton Silver Band as well as professional brass musicians from Welsh National Opera.

The Festival culminated in a fantastic concert with pieces performed by each of the three groups, whilst the audience was also treated to concert items from both Wotton Silver and the soloists from Welsh National Opera.

Enjoyed

There was no doubt the delegates thoroughly enjoyed the experience. "Everyone was really, really nice and I feel like my playing has improved,"said Bea, aged 8. "I loved being part of 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang' in the concert and hearing 'Fnugg'!"

Everyone was really, really nice and I feel like my playing has improved. I loved being part of 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang' in the concert and hearing 'Fnugg'!Bea, aged 8

Fantastic mix

Philip Anderson and a group of fellow tutors also helped on the day added: "The Cotswold Edge Festival of Brass was designed to enthuse people of all ages to try a brass instrument, or to develop their skills.

The concert was a fantastic mix of the three groups, the local band and professional musicians, who all gave their time for free. We are delighted to have created something so special in our community and look forward to doing it again next year!"

Delighted

Bruce Davies, organiser and principal cornet of Wotton Silver Band was also delighted to be involved: "Our vision is to promote brass playing and collaboration between music group of all levels."