Youth band strikes gold at festival
ROCHDALE music services’ youth wind band won a gold award at the regional heat of the National Concert Band Festival.
The band wowed the judges with their performance of Fanfare and Flourishes by James Curnow and Music for a Festival by Philip Sparke.
Despite being one of the smallest wind bands, with only 25 players, the band was awarded a Gold Award at the event, the largest wind band and big band festival in the UK.
Cathie Brooks, conductor of the youth wind band, said: “The band played an absolute blinder of a set. Their control, musicality and sheer talent shone and they provided some really spectacular ‘wow’ moments during their performance. I am very proud of their achievement.”
Coun Donna Martin, cabinet member for children’s services, said: “This is a great achievement for the band and reflects well on the success of our music service as a whole. Learning a musical instrument and performing in bands is so enriching for our children and young people and they develop skills that will stay with them for life.
“In order to be awarded gold judges need to see clear evidence of good tone range and quality, sections that blend well together, rhythmic accuracy, strong musical interpretation and strong soloist skills. All of which the youth wind band executed and we’re thrilled with their gold award.”
The band rehearses at the town hall on Tuesdays from 5.30pm to 7pm, they welcome players of grade 5 or above.
For more information visit gmmusichub.co.uk/ rochdale.