2010 Easter Course Report
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The melodious sound of music by Cornish Composer Dr Goff Richards filled the air during the Easter Residential Course of The Cornwall Youth Brass Band. Dr Richards joined the Band as a young Trombone player when it was founded in the 1950’s and has remained a constant supporter ever since as Composer, Conductor and Music Advisor.
Under Guest Conductor Richard Evans the majority of the music studied on the Course by the sixty young musicians, between the ages of 11 and 21, was written by Goff Richards. This included The Golden Lady, composed specifically for the Cornwall Youth Brass Band’s Tour of Luxembourg in 1990.
The Premiere of two pieces dedicated to Goff also took place. Darrol Barry, who studied under him at Salford University asked the Band to undertake the first performance of his Three Cornish Legends, which he dedicated to him as, “the fourth Cornish Legend.” In addition, one of the Band’s Solo Cornets, Christopher Bond, played in the first performance of his own composition, Behold The Power of God. He explained that, “The meaning of Godfrey, Goff’s given name, is 'God-peace' and the meaning of Richards is 'Powerful Ruler' - my title combines both Goff's forename and surname. The piece is not only named after him, but is dedicated to him - he has been an inspiration throughout my brass band upbringing and his music never ceases to amaze me. “
Joining the Band as Guest Soloist was Owen Farr, Principal Tenor Horn of the Cory Band. Among his Solo’s he chose to mark the occasion by giving the first performance of a new work written for him by Andrew Baker, Dragon Dances. He also invited the Horn Section to join him in a Horn Feature, Here There and Anywhere, as well as coaching the Section and giving a fascinating talk to all the musicians on the right approach to practice and performance.
Following the four days of hard work under the inspiring Baton of Richard Evans, the Band gave a Gala Concert at St Michael’s Church in Newquay on Easter Monday. As well as a host of parents and relatives it was attended by Goff Richards who was presented with The W A Hunt Cup for his conspicuous contribution to the Cornwall Youth Brass Band over the years. Other recipients of the Band’s Annual Awards were, Youngest Player, Chloe George aged 11, Cornet. Most Improved Player, Dany Hancock, Tenor Horn. Most Promising Player, Ella Greenberg, Tenor Horn. A R Trudgian Youth Awards, Jessica Tredrea, Cornet, Christopher Bond, Cornet. Player of The Year, Matthew Rowe, Baritone. Players Player, Ben King, Baritone.
The Course was supported by the local Tutors, led by Brian Minear, the Music Co-ordinator, who take the Sectional Practices and who lead the monthly Rehearsals prior to the Residential Course. With its own Catering Team, led by Trustee, Jim Gore, providing the necessary refreshment the Course proved an outstanding success and gave the young Musicians an invaluable opportunity to work with and learn from two of the most outstanding musicians in the Brass Band world.
Owen Farr with the Horn Section of the CYBB
Richard Evans with the Section Principals of the CYBB.
Richard Evans with the Principal Cornet of the CYBB, Stephanie Wilkins.
