The 40th anniversary of the formation of the National Youth Brass Band of Wales was celebrated with a concert at the RWCM&D in Cardiff on the weekend.

Players from the very first course in 1982 to the latest in 2022 took to the stage in their various uniforms to present a colourful ensemble of talent put through its paces by MDs Edward Gregson and Dr Robert Childs.

Significant

17 bands from both sides of Offa's Dyke were represented, with both original music commissioned for the organisation as well as that marking significant moments in its history being performed — from the opening Alun Hoddinott 'Fanfare with Variants' to 'Connotations'.

Three of its finest alumni, Owen Farr, Dewi Griffiths and Glyn Williams were the featured soloists (above with the conductors and event organiser Andrew Baker)

Most important

Edward Gregson spoke with great affection for a band that he felt continues to be "one of the most important musical organisations in Wales".

Meanwhile, Dr Robert Childs also fondly recalled some of the many highlights of the band's progress, as well as reinforcing the link between the band and the Royal Welsh College which now offers talented Welsh players the opportunity to undertake brass band studies.

Keith Griffin, one of the most important figures in the organisation's success, also recalled the challenges faced in dealing with the nation's legendary levels of bureaucracy and surprisingly ill-informed attitudes which had to be overcome before the band was established.

From the start we wanted to provide players with the opportunity to be inspired by world class conductors, soloists and composersKeith Griffin

Beacon of excellence

"This band is a beacon of excellence,"Edward Gregson later added. "The achievements speak for themselves, but it is the ongoing commitment to it from so many people that stands out. I am sure we will be able to come back here in another ten years to celebrate its importance."

That was echoed by Dr Childs who added: "Having a National Brass Band of Wales means so much to everyone who has a love for banding throughout Wales. It provides opportunities and experiences second to none."

That was a point enhanced by Keith Griffin who said: "From the start we wanted to provide players with the opportunity to be inspired by world class conductors, soloists and composers.

I think we have done that over the last 40 years — from Edward Gregson, Jim Watson and Howard Snell through to Bob Childs, Ian Porthouse and Philip Harper.

There have been remarkable soloists and original music from Alan Hoddinott and William Mathias to John Pickard, Gareth Wood and Mervyn Burtch."