Riverside musicians star for Scotland

Riversde Youth Band Musical Director Mark Good with band members who attended NYBBS. Back row from left to right: Adam Lawrence, Alexander Jamieson, Siobhan Crumlish, Jack Vize, Alan Hunter; front row: Mark Gammon, Libby Hunter, Anna-Stella Seidl, Gregor Hewitt). Not pictured is Frankie O'Donnell.

TALENTED brass players from Inverclyde have represented the area with pride by performing with the National Youth Brass Bands of Scotland (NYBBS).

Ten members of Riverside Youth Band, which is based in Port Glasgow, took part in the week-long residential course at Strathallan School in Perthshire before dazzling a capacity audience at the end of course concert on July 29 at St John's Kirk in Perth.

Port Glasgow, Greenock, Gourock and Kilmacolm were among the areas represented by members at the course organised by the Scottish Brass Band Association, which offers young people aged 9 to 22-years-old an opportunity to perform challenging, exciting and diverse repertoire with a world-renowned team of conducting and tutorial staff.

Commenting on the young players' achievements, Mark Good, Riverside Youth Band Musical Director, said: "It was tremendous to see tenRiverside Youth Band members attending the NYBBS. They did their families - and Inverclyde - proud.

"As well as taking part in a week of intensive rehearsals and concerts, they made every effort to get involved in the spirit of the week, from sporting events to talent shows.

"The week will have seen them renew existing friendships and foster new ones which will last a lifetime, and I look forward to hearing the results of their hard work when they return to rehearsals in the new term."

Six of the group took part in the National Children's Brass Band of Scotland, with the remaining four playing in the organisation's Reserve Band, which caters for slightly more experienced players.

Their NYBBS involvement comes as Riverside Youth Band prepares for the new term, with rehearsals recommencing in St John's Hall, Port Glasgow, at 6pm on Friday, August 19.

Young brass and percussion players of all levels of experience are welcome to get involved with the band, which is the reigning Scottish youth champion.

Anyone looking for more information should log on to www.riversideyouthband.co.uk, follow the band on social media or contact Laura Good: secretary@riversideyouthband.co.uk.