The Italian Brass Band recently welcomed Frank Renton to lead their annual Brass Band Conducting Masterclass.

The initiative forms part of their 'Autumn in Brass' festival which in recent years has become an important part of their outreach work in promoting the growth and interest in brass banding in both Rome and throughout the country.

Six conductors

During the event, six young conductors took their turn on the podium to direct the band, mentored by Frank Renton to inspire a compelling connection with music that ranged from classic repertoire to modern, contemporary compositions.

A highlight was an open rehearsal of the recent British Open test-piece, 'Music of the Spheres' by Philip Sparke, with Frank Renton revealing its challenges to conductors and how to overcome them.

Support

The event, supported by Geneva Instruments, was hosted by the Italian Army Symphonic Band at the Auditorium Lacerenza in Rome, further enhancing a long-standing collaboration that has strengthened the recognition of the country's brass band movement.

Speaking about its success, Italian Brass Band MD, Giuseppe Saggio, expressed his satisfaction, highlighting the value of the experience: "Working with Frank Renton has been a moment of great significance for us," he said.

"His inspirational leadership and direction represent a tangible contribution to the musical growth of the ensemble and a major opportunity of improvement for all the participants."

Impressed

In response, Frank Renton added: "When we started work on Friday evening I was immediately impressed by the sound of the band, and their obvious enthusiasm. When we worked with the students on Saturday and Sunday, they remained focused and enthused.

The potential within this band and the wider Italian brass band movement that they inspire through these initiatives is huge and I look forward to hearing them again soon."

working with young conductors is an essential part of the development of the band culture. It was a joy to be in Rome making it happen with the Italian Brass BandFrank Renton

Essential

He added: "Through its Music Foundation Geneva Musical is also leading the way here, fitting perfectly with my feeling that training and working with young conductors is an essential part of the development of the band culture. It was a joy to be in Rome making it happen with the Italian Brass Band".

In response, Giovanni Celestino of the Italian Brass Band said: "These words make us proud of our work and represent a further incentive to work with humility but great enthusiasm."