The re-formed Scottish Borders Youth Brass Band (SBYBB) enjoyed a remarkable return to the recent Scottish Youth Championships in Perth, as they were crowned Senior Champion under the direction of Alan Fernie — four years after they last competed at the event.

First from first

The band was made up of players from Langholm and every town band in the Scottish Borders area, and only got together again for the first time in September. Not only that, but with just four rehearsals under their belts they were drawn first against rivals in the Senior Section (18 and under).

However, their excellent performances of 'Firefly', 'Northern Skies' and 'Encanto' saw adjudicators Russell Gray and Sandy Smith comment on their overall quality; praising the youngsters for their controlled, tuneful and balanced playing as well as ensemble sound.

Something special

"It was evident that this was something special from the very first rehearsal, and the performance was one of the highlights of my banding career," said an emotional Musical Director Alan Fernie.

"This fantastic result is testament to all the hard work from the teachers, tutors, conductors and bands who have encouraged these youngsters to become fine musicians in our fantastic brass band movement in the Scottish Borders."

It was evident that this was something special from the very first rehearsal, and the performance was one of the highlights of my banding careerMusical Director Alan Fernie.

Ostend bound

As a result of the victory, the band will now represent Scotland at the European Youth Championships to be held in Ostend next year, something Scottish Borders Brass Band Association Secretary Keith Belleville is determined to see happen.

"Financially it's going to be a challenge to get to Belgium, but we are determined to do this for the youngsters. We will now look at a fund-raising programme and would love to hear from anyone — business, organisation or individual — who can help us with this unique project."