Over 100 youngsters headed to Barnsley Civic Hall last weekend to take part in Grimethorpe Colliery Band's latest Spring Workshop.

They were attracted by a packed day of musical activity starting at 10.00am with the players from the Music Hubs of Barnsley, Wakefield, Sheffield and Rotherham joining students from Derbyshire, Leicestershire and even Norfolk.

Split into two main ensembles — a Junior Band of primary school age pupils of up to Grade 3 standard, and a Youth Band of older more experienced players, each was mentored by Grimethorpe Band tutors, leading to a final concert that was enjoyed by over 300 friends and family.

Huge success

The day proved to be a huge success, with Youth Band Manager Jim Fletcher telling 4BR: "There was such a feeling of enthusiasm and optimism with all the youngsters simply brilliant.

We wanted to test them on some difficult music, and they responded superbly. We hope they enjoyed the day as much as we did."

He added: "This was about inspiring and being inspired, gaining experience and having fun, not being afraid to play wrong notes (which many of the tutors did!) and just enjoying playing next to youngsters who share the same passion about brass band music making."

It wasn't all about playing all the right notes, more experiencing playing and accompanying with some of the bands players and improving themselves whatever level they're at, and we're sure everybody had a fantastic experience."

Next generation

Grimethorpe Band Manager Richard Windle added the success of the day further endorsed the band's commitment to inspiring the next generation of young players.

"This second workshop day showed just what we want to achieve. We are fully committed into putting something back into our wonderful brass band community and core to that is the development of new young players.

We are also determined that all our experiences will be open to everyone, so these days will continue to be free to all participants."

The next workshop day will be on Saturday 10th June at Barnsley Civic.

Details and a sign-up form can be found at: https://grimethorpeband.co.uk/youth/

We are also determined that all our experiences will be open to everyone, so these days will continue to be free to all participantsRichard Windle

New Junior Band

Richard also confirmed that Grimethorpe will continue its work with several Barnsley area bands. They will link up with Grimethorpe & District Band to form a new Junior Band that will rehearse in Grimethorpe every Thursday evening from 6.00pm — 7.00pm.

The teaching will be provided by members of Grimethorpe Colliery Band, and this will also be free to all young people. Instruments will also be provided.

This new Band will commence on Thursday 27th April. For more information please email: education@grimethorpeband.com