Scottish Borders Youth Band reborn

Alan Fernie leading the Scottish Borders Youth Brass Band in rehearsal.

TALENTED young brass and percussion players in the Borders are preparing to impress at Scotland's flagship youth event after the reformation of the Scottish Borders Youth Band.

The announcement from the Scottish Borders Brass Band Association came as musicians from across the region gathered for an intensive day of music making in Galashiels.

The event on Sunday, September 25 saw around 50 youngsters aged from 8 to 18, along with two adult players, descend on the town's Langlee Complex for a packed day of rehearsals before showcasing the results of their hard work to friends and family members.

Alan Fernie conducted the Scottish Borders Youth Band, with Mark Good leading the B Band and Graeme Kennedy at the helm of the C Band.

The B Band was conducted by Mark Good.

Commenting on the event, Alan Fernie said: "It's an honour to conduct so many wonderful young players, who have worked so hard during the course of the day.

"There is so much talent in the Scottish Borders and these pupils are a credit to their teachers and their bands."

Alan continued: "I'm proud to conduct the Scottish Borders Youth Band and I can't wait to take this wonderful group to the Scottish Youth Brass Band Championships in November."

Graeme Kennedy leads the C Band at the Scottish Borders Brass Band Association workshop.

The Scottish Borders Youth Band, which includes youngsters from Hawick, Jedburgh, St Ronan's, Peebles, Langholm, Galashiels, Earlston and Duns, will meet for several rehearsals before taking to the stage in Perth on the weekend of November 26 and 27.