Having been unable to play for the first couple of months in 2008, euphonium star David Childs has more than made up for his initial absence with a hectic close to the year.

Quiet start

Following a quiet start to 2008 David quickly got himself back in to practice to tackle his busiest concert schedule to date, which has seen him give more than 20 solo performances all over the world.

In addition he has also managed to fulfil his concert and contest commitments as principal euphonium with Cory, and explore other performance opportunities too.

I've also enjoyed pursuing my interest in performance education giving an increasing amount of master-classes at home and abroad. I've also been involved in an exciting quartet project, and enjoyed a little conducting too!David Childs

Busy year

David told 4BR: "It's been a real busy year, but at the same time extremely rewarding. Playing with the band has been fun, and performing as a soloist continues to give me a great deal of pleasure.

"However, this year I've also enjoyed pursuing my interest in performance education giving an increasing amount of master-classes at home and abroad. I've also been involved in an exciting quartet project, and enjoyed a little conducting too!"

Up and down the UK

In the last two weeks David has performed as guest soloist in Hull City Hall with the Barton Band, up in County Durham with the Stanhope Silver Band, and down in Cornwall with the St. Dennis Band.

In between these concert dates he's also found time to perform in Germany, conduct the Camborne Youth Band, give a recital at the Welsh Millennium Centre and complete a three day tour of Northern Ireland as part of a 10-piece brass ensemble.

David added: "There's still a few more concerts to go this year, but I'm already looking forward to 2009."

Los Angeles

And its no wonder with a solo tour of Hawaii in the diary, a couple of concerts in Los Angeles, a new solo album to follow up the popular 'Celtic Charm', and a Karl Jenkins Concerto première to look forward to with the BBC Concert Orchestra.

For the time being though its feet up, help with the Christmas decorations and a well earned rest...