Top brass players inspired young students to get involved with music when they visited Fairfield High School, Herefordshire last week (13 October).
The multi-award winning Connaught Brass were commissioned by Concerts for Craswall to visit the school the day before their sell-out concert at St Michael’s Church in Michaelchurch Escley.
The lively quintet provided an interactive introduction to brass instruments and live music, performing for over 200 students including visiting pupils from the Michaelchurch Escley primary school, followed by workshops for budding young musicians.
And there was a surprise reunion for peripatetic music teacher Clare Penkey, who first introduced the group’s trombone player Chris Brewster to brass instruments when he was just six years old.
Still in their mid-20s, the musicians are all rising stars and have performed widely in the UK and across Europe, yet take a refreshingly, non-stuffy approach to performing as part of their mission to make classical music more accessible to all.
Music Teacher Melanie Sage said: “Hosting Connaught Brass was a great opportunity for our students to hear live music and find out about brass playing. I know a number of them have been inspired to take up instruments and we will do all we can to support them.”
Gary Crocker, Deputy Head Teacher, Michaelchurch Escley Primary School added “The children really enjoyed it (as did I) and loved seeing true professionals performing close up.”
Supported with funding from The Cavatina Chamber Music Trust, the sessions reflected Concerts for Craswall’s aim to encourage talented young local musicians, to bring high quality choral and chamber music to the area, and to inspire a new generation of chamber music concert attendees.
Chairman Edward Milford said: “We were delighted to work with Connaught Brass, Michaelchurch Primary and Fairfield High schools and hope the experience will encourage more young people and their families to enjoy our friendly, informal concerts. 2024 will see us celebrate the 30th anniversary of Concerts for Craswall and we have an exciting programme to look forward to.”