Two young talented musicians from Dalmellington joined 150 fellow musician at Scotland’s biggest brass band school.

Lillie McCluskie and James Wilson (pictured) recently attended the National Brass Band of Scotland (NYBBS) residential summer course at the Strathallan School, from Sunday, July 31 to Saturday, August 6.

The duo, who are both members of the Dalmellington Brass Academy, joined the other musicians who descended on the small Perthshire village of Forgandenny.

Carrie Boax, course coordinator and SBBA president, said: “It is a real honour and privilege to know that, at the end of the week, our musical directors, tutors and pastoral staff will have made a small but positive difference to the musical journey of every youngster that attends our summer school and helped them make memories and friendships that I know will last a lifetime.”

The NYBBS featured players aged from 9 to 22, who were split into three bands – Children’s, Reserve and Senior.

For the brass and percussion players, attending NYBBS 2022 from such diverse locations as Shetland and Stranraer, the emphasis was on having fun as well as enjoying the full learning experience.

Sectional practice sessions, master classes and full band rehearsals provided the opportunity for some serious music making for the students while ‘extra curricular’ events brought a more lively element to the course.

Outdoor activities included swimming, rounders, treasure hunts, movie nights, football, ‘NYBBS has got talent!’ and a silent disco.

The NYBBS summer course is supported through funding from Creative Scotland through its Youth Music Initiative. Thursday saw an Open Day held for those young brass players who may be considering joining NYBBS.

The event enabled potential candidates to spend time with fellow musicians of a similar age, as well as being guided by first class musical directors and tutors.

Speaking ahead of the day, John Boax, Scottish Brass Band Association (SBBA) education officer, said: “The day will be particularly beneficial to any young person who is considering joining the NYBBS band.”

The fruits of the NYBBS players’ hard work during the week was showcased at two end-of-course concerts at the Albert Halls, Stirling on Saturday afternoon.