Delegates from all over the banding world have made their way to Swansea this week to be part of the 26th International Brass Band Summer School.

Superb mix

4BR will also be making the trip down the M4 motorway to see Course Director, Prof Nicholas Childs leading his players in a great mix of sun, sea and brass, with the Black Dyke MD already enjoying using his musical multi-lingual skills.

"It's a superb mix of nationalities,"he said. "This year's band comprises over a 120 musicians from 14 different countries, with our first ever delegates from Lithuania joining players from Australia, Japan, USA, Norway, Switzerland and throughout Europe — not forgetting those closer to home in the UK and especially Wales!"

World-class tutors

Delegates have also come from all different levels of banding — with players from the likes of Black Dyke, Eikanger and Brass Band Oberosterreich rubbing shoulders with those from community bands and non-competing ensembles, who will work with a world-class team of tutors who include Richard Marshall, Tom Hutchinson, Gary Curtin, David Thornton, Owen Farr, Brett Baker, Chris Turner and Joseph Cook.

In addition, the year's special guest is renowned composer, Edward Gregson.

The free end of course at Swansea University, Singleton Campus, Fulton House on Friday 5th August 7.00pm will include music from Edward Gregson as well as a host of other easy listening favourites4BR

Gregson

Prof Childs added: "We are thrilled at Edward Gregson is joining us. He brings a wealth of experience from many genres of music and his masterclass is not to be missed. In addition he will also be making a special appearance with the baton on the end of course concert."

The IBBSS is sponsored by Besson, World of Brass, Rath Trombones, Geneva, Kapitol Promotions, Trevada Music, British Bandsman, SHB Hire, GK Design, with course administrator Alison Childs adding: "Our thanks go to them all for their generosity and to the music publishing houses Prima Vista Musikk, Kirklees and Obrasso".

End of course concert

The free end of course at Swansea University, Singleton Campus, Fulton House on Friday 5th August 7.00pm will include music from Edward Gregson as well as a host of other easy listening favourites.