Expert coaching for youth brass band

DOBCROSS Youth Band enjoy a masterclass with top brass

BUDDING musicians from Dobcross Youth Band polished up their skills with some top brass master classes.

The expert coaching with principal players from Black Dyke, Foden's, Grimethorpe Colliery, and Brighouse and Rastrick Bands was part of a fun weekend away in Bedale, North Yorkshire, after a busy few months of performances.

Dobcross Youth Band musical director, Matt Hindle, himself a former player with Foden's Championship Band, said: "We have a very promising and dedicated group of young players so we wanted to arrange something special for them after a busy spring season of performances.

Impress

"They really enjoyed learning from and playing alongside these top class musicians and they worked very hard to impress them."

The weekend wasn't all about brass, the youngsters were also treated to a day at Lightwater Valley theme park, as well as bowling, roller skating, trampolining and laser quest sessions.

The Youth Band, which celebrates its 30th anniversary next year, picked up the prize for best entertainment at the Friezland contest on Whit Friday.

Although the average age of the band is just 13, the youngsters often compete and play alongside adult bands, including at the Regional Brass Band Championships in Blackpool, a Massed Brass concert in Uppermill with other Saddleworth bands and a forthcoming concert with Stockport's Fairey Band, following their appearance in the National Finals at the Royal Albert Hall.

It also has beginners and intermediate sections and new players aged seven to18 are always welcome.

Anyone interested should contact the band at info@dobcrossyouthband.org.uk.