Recording studio date for busy Highland Youth Big Band

Highland Youth Big Band,one of The Highland Council’s 8 Regional Music Groups, have had a busy week touring some of the regions schools as a warm up tour before going into the studio to record a new CD. 

Pupils at Charleston Academy, Inverness; Fortrose Academy; Holm Primary, Inverness; Grantown Grammar and Nairn Academy have all been able to hear the results of the hard work, preparation and dedication of the talented musicians who hail from a wide variety of Highland schools.

Norman Bolton, the Council’s Music Development Officer said: “Members of the current band who are leaving school this year requested this short schools tour as a prelude to their forthcoming two days in the recording studio.  Members become such a tight-knit group during their time in the group, so it’s ideal to be able to offer them the opportunity to record some of their repertoire and experience the discipline required in the studio.  The CD’s previously recorded by some of the Regional Groups have proved very popular with parents, families and the wider public.  They not only serve as a permanent reminder of members time with a group, but also as a way of widening the reputation of the high standards produced by all our Regional Music Groups.”

HYBB members are offered places in the groups after competitive audition, and meet for intensive rehearsal weekends throughout the school year

Auditions for next sessions Regional Music Groups took place recently and almost 350 musicians from all over Highland have now been offered places in what looks likely to be another successful season for all eight Groups.  There are still places available in the new Highland Youth Choir for current P7 or secondary unbroken and female voices and Còisir G Gaelic choir.  More information can be found at www.highland-young-musicians.com  or by contacting norman.bolton@highland.gov.uk