Nailsworth Academy Band made a stunning first impression this weekend, earning a Gold Award at the Gloucestershire Brass Band Association contest on Sunday.
The newly formed ensemble—launched in May 2025 as part of Nailsworth Silver Band—took to the stage with two contrasting works: the classic march Slaidburn and the test piece The Journal of Phileas Fogg. They performed alongside bands from Pate’s Grammar School, the Forest of Dean, and Kingsley Brass.
Adjudicators praised the band’s “bright and rhythmical style,” “lyrical” playing, and “a really great effort with some excellent moments.” For many of the group’s musicians, the event marked not only their first contest but their first time performing on stage.
Musical Director Sam Gawthorne expressed delight at the achievement, saying he feels “exceptionally lucky to have met and worked alongside such incredible musicians,” adding his gratitude for the opportunity to lead the new ensemble.
Band Chairman Dr Pete Dillon echoed the excitement, celebrating the rapid growth and ambition of the Academy Band: “The Nailsworth Academy Band is an integral part of the Nailsworth family. Following great demands to join our senior band, we felt it important to extend musical opportunities to the community we are so proud to serve. In five short months, the band has developed an identity of their own and we are so proud of their debut performance today.”
The Academy Band will next perform alongside Nailsworth Silver Band at their annual Charity Christmas Concert on Sunday 14 December, 3pm. Entry is free.
Nailsworth Academy Band continues to welcome new members, with vacancies across the ensemble. For enquiries, contact band secretary Debbie McDougall at secretary@nailsworth.band or via the band’s Facebook page.
