BBSA: Western Cape Workshop for Junior Players

A workshop for beginners was held over the weekend of 25 & 26 June 2005 at Genadendal Moravian Mission Station under the very appropriate theme: “Alles begin klein.”

36 Juniors representing 6 brass bands viz. Atlantis, Belhar, Bonteheuwel, Bridgetown, Hanover Park & Steenberg, attended the workshop. The main presenter of the workshop br. Hilton Smith was assisted by br. Basil Carelse, Ronald Johannes, Isak Martinus and Ben Zibeon. Also present at the workshop were the executive members and leaders of some of the brass bands.

At 09h00 we were welcomed by Connie (one of the church workers of Genadendal Moravian Congregation), where after the chairperson, br. Christo Appel explained the purpose & rules of the weekend.

Beside technical and breathing practices, the different sessions mainly focused on the music to be performed at the festival later this year. Learners were made aware about little things like how to hold & handle an instrument, how to let out water from the instrument, sitting up straight to ensure proper breathing, the more careful process of setting up the music stand and music first before taking out the instrument and visa versa when the practice session is over, etc. Discipline within a band and during performances was also demonstrated in a practical session.

One of the sessions, presented by br. Ronnie Johannes focused on the basic administrative and financial aspects within a brass band. Also a brief overview of the history, aims and objectives as well as the vision of the BBSA was very able presented to our young players who have found it very interesting.

Leaders and other senior players also made use of the time to practice some of the prescribed pieces for the festival.

The Saturday activities were ended with a “braai” prepared for us by the kitchen staff, who made sure that mealtimes was the best time to look forward to. Good, healthy meals were prepared on time and very little food was wasted.

On Sunday morning everybody were dressed in their navy and white prepared for the morning service which started at 10h00. During the service the juniors performed 2 pieces conducted by brs. Hilton Smith & Ben Zibeon, while the seniors and some of the more advanced juniors accompanied the hymns.

The workshop ended with lunch after which everybody prepared for the journey home.