The Italian Brass Band has already started its preparations for their appearance at this year's European Championships in Linz in April.

In addition to its regular rehearsal schedule, the latest initiative has seen them host their annual masterclass series for emerging brass band conductors which took place from October through to early February.

International conductors

Over four weekends they welcomed delegates to work with leading international conductors.

These included Filippo Cangiamila, (conductor of the Italian Army Symphonic Band, founder and former conductor of the Italian Brass Band); Prof Pantelo Leonfranco Cammarano (conductor of the Italian Air Force Symphonic Band); Katrina Marzella Wheeler (conductor of the cooperation band), and Prof Giuseppe Saggio (Musical Director of the Italian Brass Band).

Wonderful success

Band spokesperson, Giovanni Celestino told 4BR: "The series was a wonderful success in spreading the influence of brass banding to the wider musical community in Italy and beyond. Our thanks go to the amazing conducting maestros.

Many students from Italy, and one Switzerland worked through basic conducting and advanced technique on a wide range of repertoire. The ages ranged from 20 to over 50, and experiences were varied, but the sense of passion, motivation and enthusiasm was incredible."

He added: "The IBB's musicians were amazing too, demonstrating great professionality in maintaining concentration during the long hours of each session but also making the conductors feel valued and relaxed."

The ages ranged from 20 to over 50, and experiences were varied, but the sense of passion, motivation and enthusiasm was incredibleBand spokesperson, Giovanni Celestino

Concert performances

At the end of each monthly session the students were invited to conduct a work in a concert setting in front of local audiences and professional musicians who have now become regular listeners at the Fellini Theater of the Ennio Morricone School in Rome.

The latest delegates conducted 'La Forza de Destino', 'Fraternity', 'Music for a Festival', 'Gaelforce', 'Z 1920' and the solo 'Capricorno'.

The band now continues with its preparations for their European Championship appearance in Linz.