Department of Brass Studies
We aim to challenge students entering the department by
broadening their view of the brass world, so you can expect a
superb variety of rehearsal and performance opportunities. Our
concerts can range from renaissance dance music, played on sackbuts
and cornetts, through to avant-garde compositions using
contemporary techniques.
We will encourage you to broaden your musical horizons and
develop your performing skills under expert guidance in horn
quartets, brass quintets, euphonium and tuba ensembles, natural
horn and natural trumpet ensembles, cornett and sackbut consorts,
Trumpet Choir, Trombone Choir, Brass Band, Jazz Ensemble, Big Band,
Symphony and Chamber Orchestras, and of course in solo
performance.
As a brass player, you will also have the opportunity to
audition for a place on the work placement programmes we have
developed with the BBC National Orchestra of Wales and the
Orchestra of Welsh National Opera. This privileged arrangement
enables students to work closely with the principal players in two
of the UK’s leading professional orchestras and receive coaching on
essential orchestral repertoire.
By selecting from a range of specialist brass band options
within the BMus course, brass band players can follow a unique
Brass Band Pathway in parallel with their wider studies. Brass Band
activities, both performance and academic, are directed by Dr.
Robert Childs and you may be selected, by audition, to play with
our Brass Band in Residence, The Cory Band.