Russell Gray is to lead a conducting seminar weekend in collaboration with the Bathgate Band.

It will be the eighth time Russell has hosted the event, which will take place on the 23rd/24th March based at the band's headquarters. It will culminate on the Sunday night with a concert featuring the conducting delegates at the Regal Theatre in Bathgate (7.30pm).

Focus

The course starts on the Saturday with Russell putting delegates through their paces on Ray Steadman-Allen's Championship Section test-piece, 'Seascapes', which will have been used at the Scottish Championship.

He will examine, analyse and focus on baton technique as well as rehearsal preparations and approaches. Sunday will then focus on the repertoire for the evening concert.

Russell told 4BR: "There will be a warm welcome and the band is experienced to aid the delegates in front of them. We will enjoy a highly enjoyable and productive weekend with plenty of friendly banter leading to a great concert."

The band is amazingly friendly and patient and Russell of course is full of experience and knowledge. I'd encourage any aspiring conductor to attenddelegate Steven Critchlow

Foundation Course

Running alongside the event will be a Conducting Foundation Course led by the experienced Stuart Black, aimed at new and inexperienced conductors wishing to develop their talents.

Started two years ago it has become a popular addition, with Stuart telling 4BR. "This is about sharing experiences and challenges and working on improvements. Conducting at this level is also about encouragement and giving the delegates confidence in front of their own bands.

Delegates will enjoy podium time with the Bathgate Junior Band working on basic baton technique and rehearsal preparations, whilst those taking part will also conduct the band at the Sunday evening concert.

As past conducting delegate Steven Critchlow told 4BR: "The band is amazingly friendly and patient and Russell of course is full of experience and knowledge. I'd encourage any aspiring conductor to attend."

Sign up

If anyone is interested in attending either course please contact:

rusgray@btinternet.com — Advanced

Sblack.flugel@gmail.com — Foundation