Belmont School Community Arts College, Durham is currently hosting 41 brass and percussion students who have spent three intensive days rehearsing and preparing for their end of course concert tonight (Friday 29th August).

They will be joined by guest soloist, Jimmy Hayes, principal cornet of the Reg Vardy Band.

We have definitely built on the success of our inaugural course last year. The students have all been a credit to themselves, their parents and their schoolsLaura Boyle

Workshops

Students worked with tutors Keith Norris (beginners), Tina Mortimer (intermediate) and Bruce Fraser (advanced) and also took part in street music and samba workshops with percussion tutor John Blackburn before performing for their parents, friends, relatives and local brass enthusiasts.

Enjoyed

French horn player Michael Crowder told 4BR: "I have really enjoyed this opportunity. I have made lots of new friends as well as improving my playing. I will definitely come back next year.”

Building on success

Laura Boyle, the school music coordinator and baritone player in the Reg Vardy Band told 4BR: "We have definitely built on the success of our inaugural course last year. The students have all been a credit to themselves, their parents and their schools.

"Opportunities like this are rare, especially in our region and I must once more thank Belmont School Community Arts College for providing the funding for this course, allowing it to be free of charge to all students."