The latest edition of 'The Mouthpiece', the official journal of the Brass Band Association of New Zealand has reflected on the recent visit of Dr Robert Childs to Wellington where he led a workshop weekend for 54 conductors.

Supported by Besson and the New Zealand School of Music, the event was organised by the New Zealand Brass Foundation and Wellington Brass Band and their MD, David Bremner.

With the help of the National Champion band some of the participants were able to spend half an hour at the rostrum working on technique and band management on 'Paganini Variations'.

Wonderful time

Speaking about the visit Bob said: "I had a wonderful time and was delighted that so many conductors at various stages of their development turned up. New Zealand banding has a great wealth of musical talent and I'm sure that these conductors will be able to further develop that in the coming years."

On his visit Bob also took time to work with the Besson Northern Youth Band — made up of payers from the Auckland and Waikato areas. Speaking about the experience in the journal one participant, Simon Winship said: "It was a hugely successful course and we all learnt so much."

The course ending with a memorable local concert where works as diverse as 'Fire in the Blood' and 'Ticket to Ride' were balanced by 'The Midwest March', 'Lightwalk' and the hymn tune 'Blaenwern' amongst others.

Speaking about the experience in the journal one participant, Simon Winship said: "It was a hugely successful course and we all learnt so much."4BR

National Championships

In his regular column, BBANZ President John Sullivan also looked forward to the forthcoming National Championships in Dunedin from the 5th to 8th July.

He also took the opportunity to congratulate the achievements of New Zealanders at the recent Australian National Championships — including Kevin Hickman who claimed the double of 'Open Flugel Champion' and 'Champion of Champions'.