Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, the Fermanagh/Tyrone Brass Band Summer School returns next week, running from Thursday, July 14 to Saturday, July 16 and concluding with a finale concert in St. Macartin’s Church Hall, Enniskillen on the Saturday evening.

Located in the heart of the island town of Enniskillen, this fun, relaxed course is open to all ages and all abilities, giving participants the opportunity to perform, learn and socialise with some of the best brass players and educators in the business.

In 2012, course director Stephen Crooks began his vision for the Summer School by assembling top-class musicians to provide expert tuition to the people of the Fermanagh/Tyrone area and beyond.

Now, 10 years on, the course is continuing to grow, this year taking place in St. Macartin’s Cathedral Hall.

During the course, participants will explore a new repertoire alongside popular marches and concert pieces in rehearsals led by guest conductor, Ian Porthouse.

This will take place in a relaxed atmosphere with a highlight of the PhairGrylls Friday night BBQ.

The Summer School team strive to bring participants a fantastic experience at a small cost for the three days of music making. All that is required is an instrument and a smile, because all music, stands etc will be provided.

The course will culminate on Saturday evening (July 16) with a live performance for the public in St. Macartin’s Church Hall at 8pm.

This concert will feature the summer school band performing pieces they have worked on throughout the three days, and will also feature the tutor group.

All are welcome to attend and tickets can be purchased on the door. The event is sponsored by Fermanagh and Omagh District Council.

The band is also doing a pop-up concert at The Diamond, Enniskillen at 4pm on Saturday, July 16.

Speaking about the Summer School, the Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Barry McElduff, said: “I would like to congratulate the Fermanagh/Tyrone Brass Band Summer School on its tenth anniversary and I am delighted that the Council can support this year’s event through sponsorship.

“I would encourage young people from across the district to participate in the Summer School, and to be part of this special anniversary year.”