With A Level results and university 'clearing' only days away, brass students may want to consider studying alongside two of the banding world's outstanding performers according to University of Huddersfield (UoH), Head of Brass, Richard Ward.

"UoH Music & Drama is one of the largest such university departments in the UK,"he told 4BR.

"In 2019 UoH was ranked the 25th in the world for Performing Arts by the QS World University Rankings. Brass has always been an important part of this thriving department I think it's great students are part of this wider creative environment."

Fantastic

He added: "We've fantastic brass tutors for all brass instruments. The three year degrees are taught by 'TEF Gold Award' tutors and the flexibility of the course means students aren't tied down and can explore many different paths

All this and the UoH Brass Band, which is open to all students, is twice winners of UniBrass and placed 3rd and the highest university department band for the last three years."

Two of the leading tutors are Carlton Main Frickley principal cornet Kirsty Abbotts and Black Dyke solo euphonium Dan Thomas, with Kirsty telling 4BR: "Huddersfield has an extremely welcoming environment and I'm already looking forward to introducing myself to the new students in September.

The degree courses can be tailored to suit a student's strengths and is flexible to explore skills they didn't realise they had, or go in new directions. All that and there is of course the renowned UoH Brass Band!"

Attraction

One of Kirsty's current students is Black Dyke solo horn, Brass Pass Young Brass Award winner, Siobhan Bates who confirmed to 4BR the attraction of studying at Huddersfield.

"Kirsty is an amazing musician and inspires me every lesson without fail. It's such a huge bonus to get the time with her. She does so much work for me behind the scenes and is always so willing to help!"

Euphonium player Tom Cobham is equally positive about Dan Thomas: "Having Dan as my teacher has significantly improved my playing. Not only has he helped with my technical ability but his supportive and friendly manner has improved my confidence".

In response Dan told 4BR: "I really like the friendly atmosphere at Huddersfield and I'd love to welcome more euphonium and baritone players to the team in September!"

More information:

More information about Clearing and Music at the University can be found:

https://www.hud.ac.uk/clearing/
https://courses.hud.ac.uk/full-time/undergraduate/music-bmus-hons