The Red Admiral Music Academy saw its newest ensemble, Red Admiral Brass, give a hugely encouraging performance at the recent Brass at the Guild contest in Preston.

Competing in the Fourth Section, they came third performing Ray Steadman-Allen's regional set-work, 'Stantonbury Festival', with all but four of its members never having taken to the contest stage before.

Long term

Academy Director, Daniel Brooks told 4BR: "When we first set up the Academy, just over four years ago, it was always part of our long term strategy to provide our players with the experience of contesting — although we didn't envisage that it would be this soon in our development.

He added: "What we've set up with Red Admiral Brass is a unique ensemble, as every position has been appointed from within the Academy. It means every player is a home-grown talent. We are therefore proud to say that this is grass roots banding at its best."

The event will feature five bands from across the region; Freckleton, Blackburn & Darwen, Old Hall Brass, Trinity Girls and Red Admiral Brass, performing their respective test pieces. Guest mentor for the evening will be Garry Cutt4BR

Regional preview

Red Admiral Brass now have their sights set on giving a fine performance at the North West Regional Championships in Blackpool and will continue their preparations by hosting a 'Preview Evening' on Saturday 16th February at Chorley Town Hall, Lancashire.

The event will feature five bands from across the region; Freckleton, Blackburn & Darwen, Old Hall Brass, Trinity Girls and Red Admiral Brass, performing their respective test pieces. Guest mentor for the evening will be Garry Cutt.