*
banner

Curtin goes Dutch with Adams link

The Foden's euphonium star has become an Adams Brass Artist.

Curtin
  Gary Curtin with his new Adams instrument

Foden's euphonium star Gary Curtin has become an Adams Brass Artist.

The international instrument maker, based in Ittervoort in the Netherlands, is a renowned maker of percussion equipment, but has also gained respect over the past two decades for its brass instruments spearheaded by Miel Adams.

It has enabled the company to design, manufacture and build their instruments at their base, utilising the experience of their craftspeople.

Test

Gary recently travelled to the Netherlands to test the various euphonium models in Adams' line up of euphoniums.

Speaking to 4BR, Ruud Corstjens, Adams Arts Relations Manager said that the company was delighted to welcome Gary on board: "I was thrilled when Gary called me to make an appointment to test our euphoniums.

We've been making progress for several years and have found more players dare to look beyond the established names. When a top musician like Gary calls to express his appreciation, it feels like a reward for our hard work."

The company currently has three professional models: The E1, E2 and E3. They also produce a student 'Sonic' model.

Great instruments

Talking about the move, Gary told 4BR: "Having tested roughly 15 or so instruments of all different shapes, sizes, thicknesses and materials, I believe I have found a truly great instrument to work for me as both a band player and a soloist.

My inclination was to go with the E2 before I arrived, which is composed of a thicker metal, .80 gauge, as it's important that the instrument can endure some real fortissimo dynamics that are played by top class brass bands."

Choice

He added: "My final choice was an E1 .70 gauge, with heavy valve caps. The great thing about this for me was that I felt the instrument was open across all registers.

The instrument could really sing, the tuning is fantastic and all the notes, even the elusive C# above the stave is open."

Adams don't yet have a big name in the UK as part of the brass band scene, but once people begin to try these instruments, I'm certain they will find a firm foothold in the marketGary Curtin

Eye catching

Gary also revealed that he opted for a brushed antique finish with ornate engraving design.

"It has certainly gleaned some attention at the band room, online and at our first Christmas concert over the weekend,"Gary said.

"Adams don't yet have a big name in the UK as part of the brass band scene, but once people begin to try these instruments, I'm certain they will find a firm foothold in the market."

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    


Cheltenham

Cheltenham judges confirmed

July 25 • The judges tasked with picking the winners at the 2025 Cheltenham National Finals have been announced.


Sold Out

National Youth Band sells out in London

July 25 • Its returns only if you wish to enjoy the NYBBGB in London next month with tickets going fast for the Childrens' Band too.


Italian Brass Band

Italian Brass Band continues to reach out to new audiences

July 25 • The Italian Band was joined by trombone soloist Andrea Conti for a festival performances in heart of Tuscany.


NYBBS

Perth ready for trio of NYBBS music makers

July 25 • Perth Concert Hall will host the trio of National Youth Brass Bands of Scotland later today — so if you are around why not pop along and enjoy them showcasing their talents.


Petworth Town Band - Dorset House School Fete

Saturday 26 July • Dorset House School RH20 1PB


Dobcross Silver Band - Marsden Silver Prize Band

Sunday 27 July • c/o Dobcross Band Club. Platt Lane. Dobcross Saddleworth OL3 5AD


Haverhill Silver Band - A Nightingale Sang... (an evening concert)

Saturday 2 August • Foakes Hall, Dunmow CM6 1DG


Haverhill Silver Band - East Anglian Beer & Cider Festival

Sunday 24 August • St Edmundsbury Cathedral, Bury St Edmunds IP33 1QX


Haverhill Silver Band - Concert in Saffron Hall

Wednesday 27 August • Saffron Hall, Audley End Road, Saffron Walden, Essex CB11 4UH


Dodworth Colliery MW Brass Band

July 25 • Ready for a NEW Music Challenge?. . Dodworth Brass Band, is looking for a new principal cornet as our current player prepares for retirement. Just 5mins from J37 M1. . friendly welcoming band with a packed calendar of exciting concerts & events. . . S75 3RF


Enderby Band

July 24 • Enderby Band (Leicestershire) are a Championship section band looking for: Bb BASS & PERCUSSION (expressions of interest from any perc disciplines are welcome). We are an ambitious, friendly, band with a sensibly full calendar of contests and concerts.


The Marple Band

July 24 • Cornet( back row), Baritone, Horn, Bb Bass and Kit percussionist vacancies to join our fabulous band. We are a friendly ambitious 2nd Section band, starting an exciting new musical journey with our MD Nick Birch.


Derek Renshaw

ABBA Member
Conductor, Band Trainer and Adjudicator.


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd