THOMAS HEADS TO MANCHESTER FOR BIG TUBA DAY!

Thomas Pyrah, in Year 11, is a keen brass musician and is a highly valued member of the school’s concert band and brass quintet.  His main instrument is the tuba but he also plays the school’s sousaphone in some numbers.  Thomas was privileged to attend the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester recently where he attended a tuba day!  This was a dedicated all-day, fun-filled event for tuba players. The musicians took part in workshops and ensembles, with the day culminating in a showcase concert.  Tuba players are becoming increasingly rare so this was a great opportunity for the college to engage and encourage younger players to develop their techniques.  The day was led by some world-renowned tutors including: Ross Knight (Principal Tuba – Orchestre de la Suisse Romande), Brian Kingsley (Principal Tuba – Orchestra of Opera North), Ewan Easton (Principal Tuba – Hallé Orchestra) and Robin Haggart (Principal Tuba – Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra) who helped to give the young players a taste of life at the prestigious music college.

Thomas said: “It was a fantastic experience and brilliant to meet other tuba players. I learnt so much during the day from the world-famous tutors and I really enjoyed everything in the programme. The college is hosting a series of other events throughout the year, including a brass summer school and a brass fest in October, which I am hoping to attend. Thank you to Mr Boyd for letting me know about this great opportunity.”