There are sure to be a few sore heads being nursed in Swansea this morning as the delegates enjoy a final breakfast before heading home from the 27th International Brass Band Summer School (IBBSS).
125 players from all corners of the banding globe enjoyed a great week of musicianship under the leadership of Prof Nicholas Childs, with the Black Dyke Director of Music telling 4BR that he believes that the course continues to go from strength to strength.
Fantastic response
"I'm thrilled at the way things went,"he said. "Once again we had a fantastic response from both our regular delegates and plenty of new first timers, and the feedback we have received shows that the IBBSS is a worldwide musical attraction."
He added: "Being able to welcome our first player from Taiwan, as well as ensuring we cater for players at all levels from European champions to a 97 year old cornetist, is what makes this course special for me.
We aim to challenge and inspire our delegates and for them to return home knowing that it's been a week when they have made new friends and improved as players.
It's so musically rewarding for me too, and thanks to the support I get from Alison, Rebecca and the whole team of brilliant tutors and support staff, I also feel rejuvenated. There is something in the musical air at Swansea that brings the best out of everyone."
Their sore heads will soon disappear but I hope the memories won't and I look forward to welcoming everyone again next yearProf Nicholas Childs
Week to remember
The week concluded with a concert on the Swansea University campus on Friday evening, with plenty of local support adding to the atmosphere of friendly rivalry and fun.
Prof Childs added: "We work hard to ensure the local community knows what is going on and we've built up a loyal following. Each year we get new listeners, and even a few wanting to know how to get involved in their own local bands.
My thanks go to them for their support, but first and foremost I thank the 125 delegates who really made this a week to remember.
Their sore heads will soon disappear but I hope the memories won't and I look forward to welcoming everyone again next year."
