Blackburn euphonium player gains prestigious music college place (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Blackburn euphonium player gains prestigious music college place

2:00pm Saturday 29th December 2012 in Blackburn

A TEENAGE Blackburn musician has proven he has the key to success after being accepted at the prestigious Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester.

Daniel Thomas, 17, who attends St Wilfrid’s High School in Blackburn, has been playing the euphonium since the age of seven.

He is delighted to be one of the chosen few to be selected for the coveted places at the nationally acclaimed school for aspiring musicians.

Daniel, of Heartwood Close, Blackburn, said his dad, who is the head of music at St Bede’s RC High School, and his mum, who plays the cornet, have always encouraged him to be involved in music.

He said: “I was delighted when I found out I had been accepted. I couldn’t believe it.

“It was my first choice and it’s the best place in the world for a euphonium player to go.”

Daniel will start the four year musical performance degree next September and is eager to start.

He said: “The course will give me time to make sure I know the instrument inside and out and master the instrument. I will be able to go around the country, and possibly around the world, playing in some of the best brass bands.

“To be accepted is an honour and a privilege and I can’t wait to start. This offer had helped to set me in the right direction for the future.

“I have always enjoyed playing. I practice every day for an hour and perform in concerts with the Blackburn and Darwen Brass Band.

“I am also learning to play the trombone so that I can play in the orchestra for musicals in the pit.

“My parents are especially happy.”

Last year Daniel was named the most improved player of the year and bandsman of the year at the Blackburn and Darwen Brass Band’s annual awards.