Young Horbury musicians secure Silver sweep at National Championships
More than 50 young musicians from Horbury Victoria Band (HVB) made their mark on the national stage last weekend, securing a Silver sweep at the National Youth Brass Band Championships in Birmingham.
The organisation showcased the impressive range of its musical pathway, fielding three separate ensembles, the Learners, the Intermediate and the Youth Band.
The performers ranged in age from just six years old to 18, demonstrating the band's commitment to nurturing talent from their very first notes to rising stars of the future.
The bands are led by Musical Director and renowned euphonium player Michael Dodd, who works tirelessly to teach, support, and nurture the players to be the best they can be.
His leadership was evident as all three bands were awarded Silver certificates, a testament to the hard work put in by the 50-plus players who represented Horbury.
The Youth Band celebrated a major individual triumph as soloist William Lord was awarded the prestigious Soloist Prize. His performance of Concerto de Aranjuez earned high praise from the adjudicators for its technical brilliance and maturity.
The judges were equally impressed by the younger members too – the Learners received a special mention for their remarkable ability to play their entire set from memory without sheet music, while Intermediate soloist Rebecca Dean, aged nine, was singled out for a performance that stunned the judging panel.
Charlie Welch, Chairperson of Horbury Victoria Band, said: "I am incredibly proud of all the players involved.
"I was particularly impressed with their maturity in delivering such outstanding performances on a national stage.
"A special mention must go to Will Lord, who delivered a faultless performance to take home the soloist prize.
"We would like to thank Michael Dodd, our Youth Musical Director, for his hard work and commitment to the organisation. He is such a talent and inspiration to our children, we are very fortunate to have him at the helm."
Following this national success, Horbury Victoria Band is welcoming new members to join their ranks.
Whether you are a complete beginner looking to learn or an experienced brass player of any level, the band offers a supportive and high-achieving environment for all.
Anyone interested in getting involved can email [email protected] for more information.