Two Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM) students are preparing to battle it out in the finals of the BBC 2014 Young Brass Award at the end of March.
Cornet player David Gillson and trombone player Ryan Watkins are gearing up to compete for the prestigious title at the BBC Philharmonic Studio after astounding audiences in the semi-finals of this annual competition in January.
MM took he opportunity to speak to Ryan Watkins and find out more.
“I’m really looking forward to performing. This is the biggest competition I’ve ever done,” said the talented musician, who’s currently studying in his third year at RNCM.
“It’d be really good publicity for me if I won this. I just want to push myself further, and I think this gives me the platform to do that.
“If I won, I’d love to travel all over Britain and even the world, I think that would be what I’d absolutely love to do.”
The Young Brass Award originated in 2004 (previously coined The Young Brass Soloist Award), and has since gained a massive reputation for spotting talent.
Past winners include the principal tuba at the Orchestra of The Royal Opera House and Stephen Sykes, a highly successful freelance trombonist.
Accompanied by conductor, Frank Renton, and the Grimethorpe Colliery Band, Ken Bruce is set to host the final live from the BBC’s studios in Salford.
“It’s an honour to be hosting the award,” the British broadcaster said.
“It’s so important that we support and nurture young musical talent and I’m proud the station gives these emerging stars the chance to shine and be heard.”
Having two finalists from RNCM further bolsters the college which is currently preparing for the launch of the brand new Philip Jones Centre for Brass later this year.
“RNCM is absolutely fantastic. The teachers know exactly what they’re doing; they’re the best in the country if not the world,” the young trombonist said.
“It’s helped me to become an individual. To be different.”
Each contestant will have two different performances to show off each of their individual talents, taking inspiration from their musical heroes.
“My teachers are definitely my main inspirations, for example Christopher Hurst, who helped me get as far as I am today,” explained Ryan.
“Then, there’s obviously the trombone superstars like Ian Bousfield, and even from that, the brass masters like Kirsty Abbotts.”
Conductor Mr Renton, also present of Listen to the Band, believes it is important Radio 2 is searching out the best young brass players in the United Kingdom and providing a stage for them.
“Every one of the winners thus far has gone on to do great things in their chosen careers, and no doubt taking part in the Young Brass Awards has given a great impetus to their futures,” said the music maestro.
However, finding work performing can be hard for budding brass players.
“I want to play for a living obviously, but I mean it’s a tough competition. I’m still at uni at the moment though, so I’ve got ages to cover, a load of time to push to be better,” Ryan revealed.
“I’d really like to go into teaching full time though. I teach on Saturday’s and I love it, it’s so rewarding. I think I’d just love to see future generations grow into something great with my help.”
The final competition will be broadcast live on the March 28 on BBC Radio 2, as the four contestants each play a piece of music on their selected choice of instrument.
Image courtesy of RNCM website, with thanks.
