University News Last updated 08 August
Junior RBC (JRBC) Wind Orchestra performed at the Music for Youth National Festival in Symphony Hall, Birmingham last month.
As one of the UK’s largest celebrations of youth music, the Music for Youth National Festival is an annual event bringing thousands of young musicians to Birmingham for three days of live performances, workshops and creative activities.
From orchestras and choirs to jazz bands, ensembles and new music creators, the festival showcases the talent and diversity of the next generation.
The performance from JRBC wind and brass players was a culmination of a year's hard work, following their previous successes at the National Concert Band Festival at Warwick Hall in Carlisle last December and The Royal Northern College of Music in April. The ensemble performed Shakespeare Pictures by Nigel Hess, a challenging and uplifting work with plenty of colour and variety.
Conductor Jeff Snowdon reflected: “The Wind Orchestra excelled itself! The whole performance felt cohesive and solid, capturing all the dramatic character of the different movements.
“There was outstanding solo work from lead players, and the cathedral organ helped to bring the performance to an exciting conclusion. I don’t think the ensemble has ever sounded better!”
Associate Head of JRBC Dr Luan Shaw added: “We couldn't be prouder of JRBC Wind Orchestra. We thank Jeff wholeheartedly for his continued commitment and enthusiasm to nurturing this thriving ensemble and look forward to hearing more from the players in the next academic year.”