ONE of the country’s leading young percussionists is helping aspiring musicians in Shipston learn the art of brass playing.
Alec Banner, 17, has taken on the baton as the conductor of Shipston Town Band’s training band, guiding budding musicians and helping develop their skills as part of an ensemble.
Alec, who himself started as a beginner with the training band, is now a percussionist with the world-renowned Flowers Band and Principal Percussionist for the Swan Youth Orchestra. He has been the Principal Percussionist of the National Children’s Brass Band, is a member of the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain and won the Katie Ogden Solo Prize for the percussion section in 2024.
Alec, who is currently studying for his A-Levels at Alcester Grammar School, said: “I am delighted to be working with the talented and enthusiastic brass players of Shipston and the surrounding area, sharing what I have learned and hopefully helping them on the first steps of their musical journey.”
Once ready to progress, members of the training band can go on to join Shipston Town Band itself or Stour Concert Brass, each offering unique opportunities, just as Alec himself did.
Alec is appealing for anyone interested in taking up brass music to get in touch. He added: “If you are interested, have just a little or no experience, or want to pick up a brass instrument again after a long time, then please do come along.”
Membership of the training band is free. For those without their own brass band instrument, the band offers instruments on free loan, with music and rehearsal facilities also provided at no cost. The mentoring group’s guidance is included, ensuring every member has the resources they need to succeed. The band rehearses on Wednesday from 6pm – 7pm.