Recently, the Gwent Music Support Service hosted its inaugural Course for Young Conductors, at its new headquarters in Newport.

Aim

The course was aimed at young brass players who had an interest in conducting, but who had previously had little or no experience of having picked up a baton.

14 students attended, which was led by brass tutors Andrew Jones and Adrian Morton and a wide range of subjects were covered, including basic stick technique, score reading, instrumentation, communication skills and advice on rehearsal preparation.

It is now hoped that there is a steady stream of new young conductors filtering through to local brass bands and ensembles in the Gwent area and beyondAlun F. Williams

Enthusiastic

The students all contributed enthusiastically to the event and some were given the opportunity to conduct their fellow players using the repertoire that was studied that day.

Everyone agreed that the art of conducting was much harder than they had previously imagined and that learning the basic skills, with easy brass ensemble repertoire was the best way of starting out.

Plans

Plans are already underway, to hold the follow-up to this event, where the students will have the opportunity to study more difficult and in-depth aspects of conducting.

There is also the possibility of linking up with a 1st Section Brass Band, to enable the students to try out and develop their newfound skills, in front of a more experience ensemble.

Hopes

In addition, it is also hoped that some of the students might take some external examinations, to add to their existing playing qualifications.

Alun F Williams told 4BR: "It is now hoped that this will become a regular event in the Music Service’s calendar, thus ensuring that there is a steady stream of new young conductors filtering through to local brass bands and ensembles in the Gwent area and beyond."