The Gramercy Brass Orchestra of New York is gearing up for a successful summer by hosting its thirteenth annual music programme.

After winning the inaugural North American Brass Band Association title in 1984 they have become widely regarded as one of America's most successful British style brass bands, recording and performing regularly at functions, concerts and festivals in New York State and the New Jersey area.

Education focus

Over the past decade its focus has been on education, developing the annual Gramercy Brass Band Camp which introduces over 100 participants of all ages to British brass band music and performing styles though it's junior, senior and premier band classes.

Each year delegates enjoy sectional tutition, workshops and fun filled social time under the supervision of principal players from the Gramercy Brass Orchestra of New York, while a guest director leads rehearsals, performances and repertoire reading sessions.

These have included the likes of John Henry Lambert, trumpet virtuoso Allen Vizzutti, Princeton Brass Band MD, Stephen Allen, composer Johan de Meij and former New York Philharmonic Orchestra principal trumpet Philip Smith.

Varied programme

This year it is the turn of UK composer and conductor Tom Davoren, who told 4BR: "I'm really looking forward to being a part of this year's Gramercy Brass Band Camp.

It's a fantastic and varied programme of performances and activities which I'm sure will make for a great week of music."

I'm really looking forward to being a part of this year's Gramercy Brass Band Camp. It's a fantastic and varied programme of performances and activities which I'm sure will make for a great week of musicTom Davoren

Best possible

In response, organiser John Lamber added: "The Gramercy Brass Band Camp is all about making music and having fun, whilst giving delegates young and old the best possible experience in British style brass band education.

Whether you are a seasoned player of any age or are just beginning your brass playing journey, you'll have a great experience with us."

The Gramercy Brass Band Camp takes place between Monday 7th — Sunday 13th August.

Apply

Scholarships for delegates and student internship positions are still available. For more information go to: www.gramercybrass.org or e-mail jlamber@gramercybrass.org