Ensembles - British Euphonium Ensemble

British Euphonium Ensemble

The British Euphonium Ensemble was founded in the autumn of 2000 as a result of all four members studying together at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester. They made their highly successful debut performance shortly afterwards at the RNCM Low Brass Day in January 2001. As well as playing professional engagements of a formal nature, the British Euphonium Ensemble were artists on the prestigious Live Music Now! scheme. The BEE has an extensive repertoire of music, both of serious and lighter natures. They are therefore able to provide music for all kinds of engagements, regardless of venue or occasion.

The British Euphonium Ensemble is made up of four of the UK's finest young exponents of the euphonium. Alongside David Childs is:

David Thornton - principal euphonium with the world-renowned Black Dyke Band. He has been featured on television and radio and appeared as a guest player with some of europe’s finest orchestras. His debut solo recording, Three Worlds, was released during April 2004 to great critical acclaim. His success has earned him many awards, most notably as the International Euphonium Player of the Year 2001. David teaches at the Royal Northern College of Music, the University of Huddersfield, the University of Leeds, the University of Liverpool, the University of Manchester and Chetham's School of Music.

Steven Miles - the current principal euphonium player of the Brighouse and Rastrick band. A former principal euphonium of the National Youth Brass Band of Wales, Steven has also held positions with some of the worlds leading brass bands, including solo baritone at Black Dyke and solo euphonium with Williams Fairey. On completing his degree course at the RNCM Steve became the first ever euphonium player to be awarded a gold medal in performance - the RNCM's highest award.

Neil Jackson - a former member of the Black Dyke and Fodens bands. He has recently completed his studies at the RNCM gaining both an honours degree and a Masters degree, after winning scholarships from the Countess of Munster Musical Trust and the Musicians Benevolent Fund. In September 2001 Neil was presented with the Harry Mortimer Memorial Trust "Brass Student of the Year" award. He has appeared as a concerto soloist with the RNCM Brass Band on two occasions, has twice been a finalist in the British Open Solo competition, and has also performed with the Halle Orchestra.