Composers of Wales Newsletter
"NYBBW has helped to create some amazing players"
The British Bandsman
Conductor 2012: Dr Nicholas Childs
The National Youth Brass Band of Wales was formed in 1982 by T ŷ Cerdd - Music Centre Wales (as Welsh Amateur Music Federation) , which as Tŷ Cerdd, continues to provide administration and funding as a partner in National Youth Arts Wales. Members of the National Youth Brass Band of Wales are drawn from all parts of Wales, and auditioned or re-auditioned annually. A large number of former members are now well known as soloists, conductors, or as performers with top British and international bands or orchestras.
From its first concert at the Brangwyn Hall, Swansea, the NYBBW has established an enviable reputation for performing contemporary works. Numerous composers have been commissioned by the Band, including Alun Hoddinott, Mervyn Burtch, Gareth Wood, Christopher Painter, John Phillips, John Pickard, Peter Graham, Nigel Clarke and Martin Ellerby. The Band also features a wide range of "test-pieces" in its programmes, ranging from the classics of the repertoire to the most recent.
Entry Requirements
- Candidates are accepted for audition on the approval of their county Head of Music Service (or his/her authorised representative or equivalent) and are expected to support music activity at school/college and county level. Where county activity does not exist, the Head of Department in school or college may initially support applications.
- Candidates should normally be of around Grade VIII standard though they do not need to have taken the exam.
- Candidates should be between 12 and 21 years old (or 22, if still in full time education) on 31st August 2012.
- Players must be available for all course and concert dates. Please check your availability before applying.
2012 Summer Residency & Concert Tour
The NYBBW meets for an annual residential course held during the summer vacation under the baton of its Music Director, Dr Nicholas Childs. During the week players are given expert tuition from a team of specialist tutors drawn from the ranks of the UK’s best ensembles. In addition to music making, Band members enjoy a lively entertainment programme run by the pastoral staff. The week culminates with performances at major venues and arts festival throughout Wales. Throughout the years, the NYBBW has appeared at the Welsh Proms, Aberystwyth MusicFest, Fishguard International Music Festival and has toured the Netherlands, Norway and Canada.
Conductor: Dr Nicholas Childs
Residency: 22 - 28 July 2012 Malvern College, Great Malvern
Concerts:
27 July, Aberystwyth Arts Centre (Aberystwyth MusicFest)
28 July, Llandaff Cathedral, Cardiff
Contact
Matthew Thistlewood at Ty Cerdd 029 2063 5650 nybbw@tycerdd.info
For more information about NYBBW 2012 and application forms, click here