Brass
Principal Tutor: Paul Garner
Professional horn, trumpet and trombone tutors
“As a first timer, I thoroughly enjoyed the week: the venue was excellent; the value was excellent; the pre-course information and organisation was excellent; musical exposure and development was excellent.”
previous course member
Alongside their work within the two orchestras, brass players will have the chance to learn and perform as a brass ensemble, guided by our team of professional and highly experienced tutors. The Ensembles Concert will showcase some of the works rehearsed during the week, while the final orchestral concerts will include plenty for the brass players as well.
Brass ensemble repertoire during the week will be provided by the tutor team, but members are also encouraged to suggest, or bring along, their own choices. The aim is to challenge and stimulate whilst working on core skills, such as intonation, rhythmic security and ensemble. Individual players will also have plenty of opportunity to consult the professional tutors to improve their individual techniques.
Lead tutor Paul worked for Cunard and P&O shipping lines as a player, and later as MD for all the Cabaret artists on board. Paul has subsequently been the MD for over 100 productions. In 1989 he formed the popular ensemble Prime Brass. Paul has a passion for brass music, playing and conducting all things brass, especially Brass Ensemble work. He is looking forward to leading a challenging but enjoyable programme of brass music and supporting the orchestral programme again in 2026.
STANDARD
The standard for the course is Grade 7 or higher, and there are places for at least 8 horns, 6 trumpets, 4 trombones, and tuba.