Paul Holland and members of National Champion Flowers recently headed a great day of inspirational tuition and performance in partnership with the Gloucestershire Brass Band Association (GBBA) hosted at Gloucestershire Academy of Music.

44 participants from as far afield as Carmarthenshire, Leicestershire and Kent, as well as from local Association members, worked through a wide variety of repertoire from great Edwin Firth march 'Westward Ho!' to Howard Lorriman's 'The Legend of Hans Roth'.

First hand experience

The participants were able to gain invaluable first-hand musical experience from Flowers' players Luke Barker, Emily Evans, Dan Thomas, Gregor Spence and Coco Chan with a focus on how to improve individual technique (from cornet to tambourine) to sectional balance, as well as giving players the chance to have a go at solo spots.

Pieces such as 'Out of Africa', the gentle 'Country Scene' and 'Bright Lights, Big City' all added gave plenty of opportunity for players, with one participant later telling 4BR: "It was a fab atmosphere and great to be immersed into an environment full of opportunities to learn from those at the top of their game."

Learnt a lot

Another added: "I learnt a lot and enjoyed the standard and discipline of all participants. We are very lucky to have so many talented musicians in Gloucestershire."

A Q&A session gave the lips a rest, whilst the day was rounded off with a final run through of the whole programme to an appreciative audience which was recorded by Dean Radio.

It was a fab atmosphere and great to be immersed into an environment full of opportunities to learn from those at the top of their gameparticipant

Next event

On June 14th, the GBBA in partnership with Coleford Town Council will host a Festival of Brass Bands in two performance venues in the town.