XIII Menorca Brass Festival Highlights
Overview of the Event
The XIII Menorca Brass Festival wrapped up after five lively days of music‑making and learning. Held in the towns of Mercadal and Fornells from June 26 to June 30, the festival blended public concerts with intensive workshops. Organized by the cultural group Menorca Brass, it received support from the Island Council and the Mercadal Town Hall.
Participants and Origins
Around twenty young brass players took part. Most hailed from Menorca itself, while a few were Menorcan students studying their instruments abroad. A small group also traveled from Catalonia. Festival director Xavi Seguí noted that the attendance matched the average of recent years, calling the numbers “satisfactory.”
Daily Schedule: Lessons and Masterclasses
Each morning featured one‑on‑one lessons with specialist teachers. Afternoons were devoted to group sessions where students worked on technique together, exploring how their instruments fit within a larger brass ensemble.
Notable Teachers
The teaching roster included accomplished musicians from major orchestras:
– Antonio Jesús Lasheras Torres – solo trumpet, Tenerife Symphony Orchestra
– Severo Martínez – trombone, Porto Casa da Música Symphony Orchestra
– Alfonso cantó Ramón – trumpet, ADDA Sinfónica Alicante
Special Masterclass by Luis González
On Sunday, renowned Valencian trumpeter Luis González delivered a masterclass that drew enthusiastic crowds. His insights on phrasing, breath control, and performance presence left a lasting impression on the attendees.
Ensemble Rehearsals and Audition
Evenings were reserved for preparing repertoire. Students formed trumpet ensembles, trumpet quartets, and trombone quartets, rehearsing pieces they would later showcase. The fruits of their labor were presented in an open audition on Monday at the Mercadal Music School, where families and friends gathered to listen.
Weekend Concerts at Cas Contramestre
The festival’s finale featured two prestigious concerts held at the historic Cas Contramestre venue. These performances highlighted the progress made over the week, giving the young musicians a chance to play before a broader audience and experience the thrill of live concert settings.
Impact and Takeaways
Participants left with improved technical skills, a deeper understanding of ensemble playing, and inspiration from professional musicians. The festival also strengthened the local brass community, encouraging collaboration between island‑based players and those studying elsewhere.
Conclusion
The XIII Menorca Brass Festival proved to be a successful blend of education and performance. By offering high‑level instruction, diverse repertoire, and public concert opportunities, it nurtured the next generation of brass talent while enriching Menorca’s cultural life.
Source
Images Credit: www.menorca.info