The Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama's Brass quintet ‘Bute Brass’ have won the first Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM) Intercollegiate Brass Quintet Competition facing tough opposition from the UK’s leading Conservatoires.

Growing reputation

Bute Brass was formed in 2006 and has quickly established a reputation as one of the leading young brass quintets in Wales giving concerts and recitals from schools to St David’s Hall, as part of the Welsh Proms.

In the competition Bute performed Michael Berkeley’s 'Music from Chaucer' to mark the composer’s 60th birthday this year. Each quintet was also required to play ‘Mean Time’ by competition judge Paul Patterson, alongside fellow conductor and composer Bramwell Tovey.

This result is testament to Bute‘s commitment, professionalism and flexibility. They approach every challenge with great flair and skill and we are extremely proud of what these students have achievedKevin Price

Festival of Brass

The competition was part of the RNCM Festival of Brass which also featured performances from the six top UK brass bands including British Champions, and RWCMD’s Brass Band in Residence, the Cory Band.

Playing under the direction of Dr Robert Childs, the Cory Band’s performance included solos from Oliver Browne – a current third year tuba student.

The event also showcased many leading international soloists with the dynamic music of Philip Sparke providing the main musical thread.

Tough competition

Head of Brass at the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama, Kevin Price told 4BR: "This was a wonderful day for all the members of Bute Brass. They played to an exceptionally high standard to beat such tough competition."

Kevin added: "This result is testament to Bute‘s commitment, professionalism and flexibility. They approach every challenge with great flair and skill and we are extremely proud of what these students have achieved."