AFTER a three-year break due to the Covid pandemic the Test Valley Brass Academy Band has taken to the stage once again.

The destination this time was a bandstand in Lymington, and it was a fantastic day out for all involved.

A band of some 23 players produced great sounds, playing over 20 pieces of music to an appreciative audience. Great weather, a picnic lunch and some social time whilst tackling a challenging quiz all added to the enjoyment.

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The academy is approaching its 9th anniversary in November and continues to flourish. It aims to provide an opportunity for adults to learn to play brass and percussion instruments, and to help young players gain extra experience of playing in an ensemble.

A good example of someone who has made great progress with the academy is Jo Brookes.

Jo learnt to play the oboe at school, but stopped when taking her GCSE exams. She hadn’t played any musical instrument again until about five years ago when invited by a work colleague to come along to the academy. She took up the cornet, made excellent progress, and is now also playing solo cornet in TVB’s Senior Band.

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The academy is particularly suitable for anyone, who like Jo, has had some previous experience of playing a musical instrument (not necessarily brass) and wants to go back to it after a break.

The academy is a friendly, fun place to be and all are made very welcome. It’s low cost and you don’t need your own instrument.

Anyone interested in finding out more should contact membershipsecretary@testvalleybrass.co.uk. For more information go to testvalleybrass.co.uk.