Band Boot Camp was Great Success

The annual College Band Camp held just before the academic year commenced was a huge success thanks to a great mix that satisfied the musical minds, hearts and the stomachs of the players.

The ‘Band Camp’ programme offered a concentrated opportunity to distil the passion for concert banding with a mixture of fun and hard work, with student’s aged between year 7 to Year 13, enjoying tuition from tutors such as Phil Strotten, Anne James, Bernie Thelwell, Chris Tratt, Philippa and Megan Rowlands as well as founding conductor Bruce Hicks.

The timetable provided not only for musical literacy and performance but band camp members also paid a visit to the Army centre just up from the college where we were able to hone our motivation, leadership and team building skills, led by WO2 JF McKinney RTR (Jason) and his team.

The camp was rounded off with a splendid full house concert at the college, and a family BBQ. Certificates were also presented to students on completing recent ABRSM grade examinations.

That was certainly reinforced by one Year 7 Student, who added: “I had an incredible time and made so many new friends. I can’t wait for 2018!”

Other Comments

“The students were a credit to themselves and the school. If we can help out with anything in the future you only have to ask” said WO2 JF Mckinney RTR.

“I was thrilled with what was achieved. It was such a pleasure to work alongside great colleagues in such an atmosphere. The pupils are an absolute credit to the college. Wonderful musical learning. Hope to be part of it in the future.” said, Dr Anne James from Liverpool Hope University.