By Steve Hopwood
Hepworth Band teamed up with Katy Jones of the Hallé Orchestra and HD9 Community Brass to help inspire the next generation of brass players.
The band’s first ‘Youth Brass Day’, supported by Brass Bands England, Holme Valley Parish Council and One Community Foundation, saw youngsters from across the local area join HD9 Community Brass for a free, fun-filled afternoon of workshops and rehearsals working with mentors from Hepworth.
Gareth Hand from Black Dyke came along to help lead a percussion workshop and Katy Jones, principal trombone with the Hallé Orchestra and one of the UK’s leading professional orchestral trombone players, led an inspiring masterclass.
Hepworth, HD9 Community Brass and Katy joined forces later for a special Gala Concert to a full hall at The Civic, Holmfirth, in a fitting finale to round off a successful day.
George Newbould, from Hepworth, said: “We had a great time with our friends at HD9 Community Brass. It was so rewarding working with all the young players. We’ve had some lovely feedback and we really hope that we can do more youth brass days in the future.”
Paul Kirk, from HD9 Community Brass, said: “It was amazing that our young people had the opportunity to work alongside these fantastic musicians.
“Every single one of them has said how inspired they were and, at the rehearsal following the event, our young people have brought all those skills back into the bandroom!”
Katy Jones said: “Thank you to Hepworth and HD9 Community Brass for a such lovely day. It was great to get the chance to work with the youngsters and to play with everyone at the end of the day.
“It’s so important for bands to be investing in young players to ensure that they have players in 10 years’ time and I really value having been able to be part of that.”
What’s On in Huddersfield in May 2024 with concerts, shows, music, street food and great vibes
