4BR has been informed that ambitious plans are now in place to re-establish a Youth Brass Band in the North East of England.

Signs of resurgence

Some time ago the Durham County Youth Brass Band was quite active and now with signs of a resurgence of young people taking up brass instruments and a healthy interest in brass music the new band will give encouragement to the next generation of brass musicians.

Driving force

The driving force behind the new venture is Ray Farr who, from his position as Conductor in Residence at Durham University, intends to run various Youth Band projects from time to time but gives assurances that there will be no conflict with the existing bands where the young people play regularly.

These projects will provide an extra dimension to the activities of the local bands and youth bands.

...but now, by establishing the Northern Youth Brass Band, young people will be given important opportunities for further developmentRay Farr

Development

Ray told 4BR: "While the government’s Music Support Service provides considerable education to orchestral brass in order to feed its symphony orchestra, wind band and jazz band there is no County Youth Brass Band covering the whole region."

He added: "This has been a major disappointment to young people and leaders for some time but now, by establishing the Northern Youth Brass Band, young people will be given important opportunities for further development."

First appearance

Funding is being sought to run future workshops and give performances but the first appearance of the band will be on June 29th at the marvellous Sage Gateshead. Anyone under 18 can apply to join this first project, which is in aid of Brass Band Aid.

Massed bands

The Sunday afternoon massed band concert series at the Sage Gateshead features various artists and on 29th June the whole stage will be filled with young brass players who, with a minimum rehearsal time, will perform a whole programme of light, modern works.

Further information

For further information on the Northern Youth Brass Band contact Ray Farr:
ray.farr@durham.ac.uk

And to apply for the first project- Brass Band Aid at the Sage contact Steve Robson:
robson@lingriggs.wanadoo.co.uk