Les Neish and Russell Gray to visit Galashiels

A WEEKEND of music-making beckons in the Borders as Galashiels Town Band prepares to welcome two world class brass players.

The band is hosting a series of workshops under the guidance of Les Neish and Russell Gray in addition to its spring concert during an intensive weekend on May 2 and 3.

Commenting on the event, Stuart Black, Musical Director of Galashiels Town Band, said: "Everything we are doing in Galashiels is about inspiring young players and building a future band for the town.

"Les and Russell will not only show us all what brass players can do, they are both great supporters of youth development."

One of the leading tuba players of his generation, Les is returning after a visit to Gala two years ago. His endeavours as a tuba player have earned him recognition as a soloist, chamber musician and educator across the globe. With a real passion for music education, Les has held workshops for youngsters throughout the UK, Europe, USA and Australia.

Russell Gray, meanwhile, is a conductor and cornet player with more than 25 years of experience in the business and is currently Musical Director of the National Youth Brass Band of Scotland. Russell learned to play the cornet in his early years and by the time he was 12-years-old, he had won the junior solo championships of both Scotland and Great Britain. Having started his conducting career in Norway, he now works all over the world as a conductor, tutor and soloist.

The weekend will feature two workshops. On Saturday morning, there will be an opportunity for anyone to come along and make an instrument from a hose, funnels and even the kitchen sink before taking part in the concert. On the Sunday, the band is extending an invitation to all youngsters playing brass in the Borders to come along and take part in a workshop with Les and Russell.

The first workshop runs from 10am-12.30pm on May 2 in the Volunteer Hall. Tickets for the concert, which is at 7:30 pm in the Volunteer Hall also on May 2, cost £7 and £5 for concessions (free for 12 and under). They will be on sale at the door or can be purchased in advance from band members or from A&A Doyle, 10 Bank Street, Galashiels.