Sutton Music Trust, in collaboration with the Philharmonia Orchestra, ran a successful project with four primary schools creating beginner brass ensembles. The project was established to bridge the gap between Whole Class Ensemble Teaching (WCET) and providing a progression route through Sutton Music Trust’s Bands and Orchestras, whilst also responding to a significant decrease in brass instrument learning since the COVID-19 pandemic. On Sunday 2nd February, participants came together to showcase their hard work in a performance at the Clore Ballroom.
Conducted by Phil White, 2nd Trombone of the Philharmonia Orchestra (PO), and supported by tutors from Sutton Music Trust (SMT), an audience of over 150 enjoyed a varied programme which included arrangements of the Theme from Rocky and Havana. The Future Brass cohort were also joined in the performance by Fellows from the PO. This inspired the students to carry on playing!
I think the template for the Future Brass project run by Sutton Music Trust is a something that can be transposed across a multitude of instruments. From the initial CPD with tutors to the final concert at the Royal Festival Hall, the purpose of the project was to encourage the next generation of brass players, and reflecting on that concert, and the reaction it received, I think that aim has been achieved. I feel very lucky to have been part of it.
This performance marked the conclusion of the Future Brass project, and we are excited for the future. Participants can choose to:
- Learn a brass instrument in school,
- Learn a brass instrument at our Music Academy,
- Join the Sutton Youth Training Band.
I have enjoyed the project and loved continuing my trumpet lessons. It has built up my confidence playing the trumpet and understanding different notes. I would love to continue my trumpet journey.
The lessons were really fun as we did lots of interesting pieces - some of which I recognised. I feel I got a little bit better every week! I enjoyed performing in the concert because it sounded really professional with everyone playing together.
Using this successful template, we are also pleased to offer “Future Brass!” and “Future Strings!” classes for schools for the first time from September 2025. This will build on the success of this project and ensure the continued progression routes for young musicians from Sutton.
This project has been made possible by Partnership funding from the London Music Fund (Registered Charity No: 1141216), supported by The Karlsson Játiva Charitable Foundation, through the Signatur programme for the advancement of the art of music.
Want to find out more?
Click here to learn more about the Philharmonia Orchestra.
Click here to learn more about Sutton Music Trust’s bands and orchestras.
Are you interested in running a “Future Brass!” or “Future Strings!” programme in your school? Click here to contact us.
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