Future Brass: building the next generation of brass players

Since February 2024, the Philharmonia Orchestra has been collaborating with Sutton Music Trust on an exciting project called Future Brass, an initiative supporting more than 30 beginner brass musicians. Led by the Philharmonia’s No. 2 Trombone, Phil White, these young musicians have been taking part in brass booster sessions, generously giving up their time during half-terms and summer holidays, to refine their skills, work with their peers, and learn from like-minded brass musicians from other schools. The project culminates in a performance on the Clore Ballroom at Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall.  

“I love playing the trombone and want to continue it!” – Future Brass participant 

The participants are students from four primary schools in the London Borough of Sutton. Each student received a free instrument at the beginning of the Future Brass project. Since then, they’ve received weekly lessons from a Sutton Music Trust tutor.  

Alongside the brass booster sessions, three Sutton Music Trust tutors have also benefited from CPD (Continuing Professional Development) sessions led by Phil, enhancing their ability to deliver effective and inspiring whole-class ensemble teaching. 

Students have been working through various awards to mark their progress; all participants have now completed the Brass and Silver awards, with the Gold award in sight! 

Throughout the programme, the young musicians have tackled pieces from Hot Cross Buns to the Rocky theme, adding their own improvisations along the way. They’ve been practicing their breathing, scales, slide positions and valve positions to understand what it takes to be a successful brass musician, and of course, enjoying the occasional game of ‘eyes down/eyes up’.  

‘It has been extremely rewarding to work with Sutton Music Trust on this project. The young brass players continue to amaze me with their rapid progress. I am also enjoying watching 3 young brass teachers growing in confidence and guiding the players towards the concert next year.’ – Phil White, Philharmonia Orchestra No. 2 Trombone  

“Taking part in the Future Brass programme with the Philharmonia Orchestra has been a fantastic experience for me so far. I’ve learnt how to be a better coach, especially at beginner level and how to reach those children who wouldn’t necessarily have chosen to play an instrument before” – Sutton Music Trust tutor 

We now look forward to welcoming you to the Clore Ballroom on Sunday 2 February 2025 at 2pm to celebrate the achievements of these emerging and Future Brass(!) musicians.