LYDNEY Training Band hosted a brass and percussion workshop for bands in Gloucestershire recently, to encourage and support people of all ages learning to play a brass instrument.

Kerry Ford, secretary of Lydney Town, training and starter bands, said: “We had some funding from the Gloucestershire Brass Band Association. The 45 attending players were members of nine bands from Lydney, Cinderford, Bream, Lydbrook, Forest of Dean Brass, Cheltenham, Frampton-on-Severn, Chalford and Chepstow.

“Everyone had a full and fun day with four experienced tutors. The course director was Philip Harper, musical director of Cory Band, current British and European champions.

“Philip’s enthusiasm was contagious as he encouraged young and older learners to expand their skills and step into the styles of the challenging music chosen for the day’s event.

“Tutors for the day were experts Chris Howley (cornet), Thomas Dunne (euphonium), and Steve Barnett (percussion). They tutored sectional rehearsals, helping the players get to grips with the music. A concert was then performed to a full hall of parents and supporters. The musical programme was: Blaze Away, Shepherds Song, Indian Summer, Singing in the Rain, Jamie’s Patrol and Baggy Trousers. It was a resounding success.”