*
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    


Gareth Brindle

Brindle replaces Baker for Elland Area challenge

December 18 • The experienced Gareth Brindle will take Elland Silver Band at the Yorkshire Regional Championships following teh departure of Brett Baker.


Yamaha Clinic

Yamaha stars inspire European youth

December 18 • The latest weekend of Yamaha Young Band Clinics saw stars Arfon Owen, Margie Antrobus, Russell Gray and Armin Bachmann inspire players in Heerenveen and Utrecht.


French

Celebration and competition for bands at French National

December 18 • 17 bands will compete at the 20th anniversary French National Championships in Metz in February.


Eagley

Eagley bring festive spirit to Bolton

December 18 • There was literally no room in the hall for Eagley Band's 'Bing to Buble' recent Christmas Concert.


Longridge Band - Christmas Concert

Saturday 7 December • Longridge Civic Hall, 1 Calder Avenue, Longridge, Preston PR3 3HJ


The Hepworth Band - Christmas Brass & Voices

Saturday 7 December • Thornhill Parish Church, Dewsbury WF120JZ


Enderby Band - Broughton Astley Rock Choir

Friday 13 December • Thomas Estley Community College. 2 Station Road. Broughton Astley. Leicestershire LE9 6PT


Bedford Town Band - Bedford Town Band Brass Academy

Saturday 14 December • Putnoe Heights Church MK418EB


Newstead Brass - Christmas Showcase 2024

Saturday 14 December • St Wilfrid's Church, Church Street, Kirkby in Ashfield NG17 8LA


Dobcross Silver Band

December 14 • Looking for a new challenge in the New Year? . Dobcross Silver Band is a progressive and Successful 3rd section band on the lookout for a competent SOLO BARITONE PLAYER. If you are a team player you fit perfectly! Really enjoyable rehearsals here!


Boarshurst Silver Band

December 14 • Boarshurst Silver Band, NW Championship Section, requires a talented BBb Bass Player. Under MD Jamie Prophet, the band have an ambitious and varied calendar for 2025, including NW Area, Spring Festival and Whit Friday


Besses o'th' Barn Band

December 12 • Due to a change of circumstances. The band now require one front row cornet and two back row cornets to complete our line up for the North West Area Contest in Blackpool..


Andy Wareham

BMus (Hons), MMus (Hons)
Conductor, Composer, Brass Tutor, Musicologist


               

 © 2024 4barsrest.com Ltd