Brass players to the Queen make music at school

Musician Gavin Green (green top), from the Brigade of Guards, instructs the Saddleworth School Brass Xplosion band.

STUDENTS at Saddleworth School were treated to a rare performance outside London by part of the Band of the Grenadier Guards.

Its brass ensemble – who, with their fellow musicians, regularly play at events attended by the Queen – wowed students and then gave advice to 50 brass and percussion enthusiasts at the school at workshops.

Around 220 youngsters from Delph Primary School, Diggle Primary School, Holy Trinity C of E Primary, Dobcross, and St Chad’s C of E Primary, Uppermill, were invited to hear the ensemble play at a morning session at the school.

Garrath Beckwith, head of music at Saddleworth School, said: “The entire project was a tremendous success.

“The audience of primary students were blown away.

“Many students and teachers expressed how wonderful the performance was as they left the hall.

“The instrumental workshops delivered in the afternoon session really engaged and inspired the 50 or so brass and percussion musicians at Saddleworth School.

“This was the major part of the day, allowing our young musicians the opportunity to work and gain first-hand advice about their playing from some of the very best in the business.

“I hope this experience will stay with our musicians for the rest of their lives.”

Two Saddleworth School brass ensembles – The Brass Xplosion and the Saddleworth School Brass Quintet – later played with the Guards’ brass ensemble.

The Band of the Grenadier Guards is based in central London and its primary objectives are to support state and public ceremonial events.

Mr Beckwith added: “The quality, virtuosity and flair demonstrated by these musicians is a real credit to the bands of the Household division.

“It is hoped that a repeat venture will take place at the school in the future to further engage and inspire musicians from the Saddleworth and Oldham area.

“The music department of Saddleworth School were delighted to host these phenomenal professional musicians at a rare performance outside of London and it is my hope to bring more exceptional live musical experiences to Saddleworth School in the future.”