Two brass band musicians have been recognised for their inspirational excellence as winners of Classic fm Music Teacher of the Year Awards at a presentation evening held at the Royal Albert Hall.

Jack Holmes

Jack Holmes, the bass trombonist of Yorkshire Champion Hepworth was presented with the 'Best Classical Music Community Programme' award.

It recognised his "outstanding enthusiasm, maturity and patience with the younger brass players, who credit him with maintaining their interest in playing by being an inspirational role model and creating a safe and trusting environment."

It added, "Jack plays a key role in bringing brass band music to local families and communities, who might never have been involved with it otherwise."

Such an honour

On receiving the award Jack said: "It's such an honour. Teaching brings me a lot of joy, seeing kids coming along doing grades 1 and 2 and doing the journey along with them. Many of the junior band's instruments are beyond repair, so this funding (a share of £20,000) will help no end. We are now going places and in it for the long haul."

Congratulating him, Jeffrey Andrews, Hebden Bridge Junior Band committee member, commented: "Jack has a unique, personal insight as he joined the band aged seven and has lots of great ideas to help our band grow, improve, and entertain our community in Hebden Bridge."

Adam Bell

Adam Bell, the former MD of Huddersfield & Ripponden Band, was presented with the 'SEND Music Teacher' accolade for his work at the Springwell Academy School where he works as Head of Arts with SEMH (Social, Emotional, Mental Health) students with complex personal circumstances.

In highlighting his work, it was stated that he was "a role model who broadens horizons, changes outcomes, and leaves a lasting legacy in the lives of his students. He has inspired countless students to believe in themselves, helping them see possibilities for the future that they may never have considered before meeting him."

Under his guidance, Springwell became the only SEN school in Leeds to earn 'ArtForms Champion Music School' status.

Two brass band musicians have been recognised for their inspirational excellence as winners of Classic fm Music Teacher of the Year Awards4BR

Thrilled

In accepting the award Adam said: "I'm thrilled that the work we're doing with our young people has been recognised in this way.

It's a testament to the efforts put in by all our staff that we can support so many of our students to engage with a broad range of musical experiences which we hope will positively shape their futures."

Giving his personal congratulations, Scott Jacques, Executive Headteacher at Springwell Leeds, added: "Winning a national award of this status is a fantastic testament to Adam's creativity, passion, and tireless commitment to making music accessible, joyous, and transformative for our young people."