*
banner

A golden generation of young players is being developed in Barnsley...

8 year old Oscar Paterson was an internet sensation when he gazed in wonder at Michael Dodd's gold euphonium — so now he's had the chance to give it a test drive too...

Michael Dodd
  The golden sound of a future star...

If you need to find the perfect picture to show you just how brilliant it is to enjoy playing a brass band instrument — then this is it...

Photographer Lorne Campbell recently captured the moment when 8 year old Oscar Paterson gazed in pure wonder as music teacher Michael Dodd showed off his Besson Prestige gold-lacquered euphonium to a classroom full of young players.

Local school

Mike was holding his weekly brass music lesson at Birkwood Primary School in, Barnsley, South Yorkshire, which is located just three miles from the Grimethorpe Colliery Band where he is solo euphonium.

The special limited edition gold-lacquered euphonium is one of the most sought after models in the world at present and is being played on by the likes of Michael and Steven Mead.

Viral sensation

The school's music co-ordinator Esther Sutton, who took the original photograph that soon went viral around the banding world, said: "It was the first time the children had seen the new euphonium and Oscar in particular was very excited.

He asked Mr Dodd if it was for real — and if it was as expensive as a Ferrari!"

Talented

Oscar (who plays the cornet, but couldn't resist having a go on the euphonium — above) has been learning to play brass for just eight weeks and has already been pinpointed as a talented musician.

"He practices hard and hopes to join our Birkwood brass ensemble very soon. Moments like this really do inspire our pupils to aim high", Ms Sutton said.

He asked Mr Dodd if it was for real — and if it was as expensive as a Ferrari!music co-ordinator Esther Sutton

50 plus children

The school hosts regular concerts by the Grimethorpe and pupils have performed with its musicians as part of strong links with the band. More than 50 children at the school are currently learning a brass instrument.

Pupils receive music lessons regardless of their social and economic circumstances and recently the school was featured on BBC's the One Show to highlight the importance of music education for all.

Image copyright: Lorne Campbell

To find out more about the limited edition Gold lacquered Besson Prestige euphonium contact Band Supplies on 0141 339 9400

Become a supporter and help make our future secure.

4barsrest continues to be a proudly independent voice. There are no paywalls to overcome to be able to enjoy what we do to keep our journalism at the heart of the brass banding world. Support us with a one-off donation or subscribe from just £2.50 per month.

Support us    


Money

Did brass bands really receive £31 million?

March 19 • Arts Council England is reported to have paid out over £31 million to bands in the last three years, but the figures may not be all that they appear to be...


NYBBGB

Ticket demand high for NYBBGB Easter showcases

March 19 • If you want to hear the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain in action this Easter the you had better be quick about getting a ticket...


Gala Theatre

Durham focus for North of England Area contenders

March 19 • 42 bands will take to the stage in Durham to try and claim their places at London and York later in the year.


Stevanage

Bands get ready for London & SC Area challenges

March 19 • Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre will host 76 bands battling for National Finals qualification this weekend.


Regent Hall Concerts - Slide Effect Trombone Quartet

Friday 20 March • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London. . W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Welsh Guards Band Septet

Friday 20 March • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Enderby Band - Around the World in 80 Minutes

Friday 20 March • Wycliffe Rooms, George St, Lutterworth LE17 4ED


Contest: London & Southern Counties Regional Championships

Saturday 21 March • Arts & Leisure Centre, Lytton Way, Stevenage SG1 1LZ


Longridge Band - Spring Concert

Saturday 21 March • Longridge Civic Hall, 1 Calder Avenue, Longridge, Preston PR3 3HT


Tintwistle Band

March 18 • Tintwistle Band are looking for a 2nd euphonium and 2nd baritone player to help complete the team.. We rehearse Monday and Thursday 8-10pm at our own bandroom on Old Road in Tintwistle, and perform a variety of concerts all year round.


Tintwistle Band

March 18 • Tintwistle Band are looking for a Soprano and front row cornet players to help complete the team.. We rehearse Monday and Thursday 8-10pm at our own bandroom on Old Road in Tintwistle, and perform a variety of concerts all year round.


St John's Band (Mossley)

March 15 • We are a friendly, welcoming 4th section band based in Tameside, Greater Manchester. Following our 4th place at the North West regionals, we are looking for a SOLO CORNET player (position negotiable). We rehearse on Tuesday and Thursday evenings.


Stephen Tighe

ARCM, LDBBA, (Dip)PFS.
Adjudicator / Music Director / Arranger


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd