Young jazz musicians from North Yorkshire who performed to audiences in Germany and the Netherlands have spoken of how the trip has inspired them to develop their talents.
The 19 musicians from North Yorkshire’s Big Band were invited to perform in key tourist spots between 22 and 24 July. They played four concerts – two in Germany and two in Holland, in Monschau and Aachen.
Each concert was well-attended and proved a huge hit, leaving the audiences wanting more. The Big Band covered a range of music, including swing, jazz funk, Latin American and film scores including the theme to The Incredibles, Starsky and Hutch, Family Guy, Blues Brothers, Mambo No. 5 and Pick up the Pieces.
Executive member for education, learning and skills, Cllr Annabel Wilkinson, said: “I am delighted to hear that this year’s tour was another resounding success.
“It is not surprising that those who heard the musicians would like them to return. It shows the wonderful talent that we have in North Yorkshire.
“I am so proud of these young people and all they have achieved. I would also like to thank all those who arranged the tour.”
Our instrumental music service lead, Ian Bangay, who was part of the trip, added: “One café owner in Monschau said that he had heard many bands play over the years and we were the best. He was keen for us to return.
“Our musical talents were very much appreciated, the band even ended up performing for the hotel guests one night. This ended in an impromptu open mic night with the pupils playing solos in smaller groups and the hotel guests getting up to dance.”
Trombone player Harry Hirst comes from a family of musicians and has been with the band for three years. It was his second tour and the 15-year-old has only been playing for four years.
He said: “We had a great time, and it was so much fun to be part of the tour again.
“The experience has helped me grow in confidence and I’ll be going on to study music and join the Army as a musician. I love playing so much, I’m choosing it as my profession.”
The band members are part of our Music Hub. Set up in 2012, the hub works in partnership with local and national arts programmes and organisations attracting budding artists from across North Yorkshire to learn an instrument, make music and new friends and have the chance to perform and experience new opportunities.