Their packed lunchtime recital was delivered with style and flair, uniting our Brass family in a celebration of ensemble performance at its finest. The varied programme included Suite Impromptu (Marche) by Lafosse, a dazzling arrangement of La La Land, Gershwin’s 4 Hits for Five, McKee’s energetic Highball on White Pass, and Bernstein’s Maria and Tonight from West Side Story. Each performance showcased the colour, versatility and expressive power of brass, leaving our students inspired by the group’s precision and professionalism. A short Q&A offered valuable insight into conservatoire life and the dedication required to perform at such a high level.

Fanfare Team, The Undertones, Bold as Brass and the French Horn Ensemble are all preparing for the upcoming Small Ensembles Concert. These boys took part in rehearsal-style workshops with members of the quintet. Each ensemble received specialist coaching, refining ensemble cohesion, musical detail and stagecraft. The day concluded with a showcase platform where our pupils performed with focus, confidence and maturity.

This enriching event strengthened our partnership with the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire and highlighted the exceptional talent, discipline and musical identity of the Brass Dept. With the school also hosting a non-school uniform day in support of Brass for Africa, it seemed only fitting to celebrate that fundraising effort with a live brass masterclass of such quality and inspiration. Our students represented the school with pride and wonderful musicianship. It was an uplifting and fun way to round off the half-term. Congratulations to all the boys involved, and to our wonderful Brass team for organising such a joyous occasion and for continually inspiring our students with their musical journeys.

Student reflections:

“Since I first visited the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, the feeling and standard that you experience when you're surrounded by incredible, kind musicians is nothing short of spectacular. The musicians from RBC, who delivered our brass masterclass went above and beyond, making this one of, if not the best musical experiences I've ever had.”
– Patrick

“I really enjoyed this afternoon and got a lot out of it. It was hugely inspiring playing alongside musicians from professional bands, and useful to get different perspective and feedback.”
– Barney

"The masterclass was a valuable and enjoyable educational experience that helped me develop my playing, both personally and as part of a wider ensemble."
– Lawrence

Bridge Street Brass commented:

"We had an amazing time working with such talented students in preparation for their concert in March. A rainy Friday afternoon before half term did not stop the sheer enthusiasm and joy for music making. Warwick’s Music Department is clearly creating a huge impact on the young people, and it was lovely to spend an afternoon in this environment. We are excited to hear how the concert goes; it will certainly be worth the watch!”

The Music Department warmly invites the school community to join us on Thursday, 5 March for the Small Ensembles Concert, where numerous groups from across the faculty will once again take to the stage.