The Mountains Youth Band Masterclass on Sunday 2nd August saw forty-seven enthusiastic instrumentalists experience a fabulous enrichment opportunity under the baton of Steve Williams, Chief Conductor Instrumental at the NSW Department of Education Arts Unit. The group worked on two pieces - A Childhood Hymn and Latin Celebration which were performed at the concluding concert. The talent of the instrumentalists and the leadership provided by Steve were evident in the wonderful performance and great applause from the audience.

 

The youth musicians also experienced a workshop session of their own choice. Steve Williams led a session called An Introduction to Conducting. The would-be conductors learned valuable techniques and took turns in conducting a small ensemble. The percussion workshop was presented by Murray Parker and was highlighted by lots of rhythm work and clearly lots of fun. David Clayton took a large group and taught improvisation and jazz technique. The members of that session played two jazz items that included some wonderful solo instrumental work. There was huge applause for the Masterclass Jazz Ensemble and jazz musician Dave Clayton at the final concert.