'Saxhorn Fest' at Salford
On Saturday 3rd February Katrina Marzella of Black Dyke and Helen Varley of Grimethorpe led a new combined Tenor Horn & Baritone 'Saxhorn Fest' Day at the University of Salford. The event was aimed at exploring and developing the potential of the traditional brass band 'middle of the band' and was run with the support of the Salford Saturday Music School,
The day was action packed with fun filled activities for all ages and abilities, beginning with a performance from the Northern Horn Quartet. Participants were kept busy with lots of opportunity for ensemble and solo playing, including première performances of several new works specially written for the occasion. There was also plenty of expertise and inspiration on show, not just from the 'Saxhorn Fest' leaders, Katrina and Helen, who are leading exponents of the baritone and tenor horn and highly respected instrumental tutors at Salford, but also from Guest of Honour and tenor horn legend, Gordon Higginbottom.
Speaking about the day Helen commented: "What a fantastic day! It really couldn't have gone any better an exciting day of workshops, interviews and more. A really wonderful showcase for tenor horns and baritones." Katrina added: "I had a fabulous day working with talented colleagues, enthusiastic participants, eager composers and such talented young people – I have been really inspired by the success of SaxHornFest 2018. We were so pleased to hold the event at the University of Salford, it was the perfect venue for such a day."
Participants were equally glowing about the day stating, "What an amazing event for the middle of the band. Thanks so much to the organisers – Can't wait for SaxHornFest 2019!"
.gif)
