Course History

The 2008 course will be the 39th year of the Wessex Course. Back in 1970, the course was the idea of two 16-year-old Blandford schoolboys, John Grinnell and Andrew Pitts. Disappointed at not being able to take part in their county youth orchestra’s residential course due to financial cutbacks, they set about organising their own 4-day course. It would involve youngsters from local bands under the direction of Courtney Bosanko, the director of the local Championship section brass band.

Sadly, Andrew died very early in his career as an army bandsman. John, and subsequently his wife Margaret, continued to organise the annual event. From a band of 44 brass musicians the course has expanded to cater for all brass band and wind band instruments, and now includes a training band for those in the earlier stages of learning. Encompassing the fervour for lifelong learning, it has moved away from the concept of being purely a youth course in order to include enthusiastic musicians of all ages.

Coming from all parts of the country, the musicians play throughout the year in a variety of ensembles ranging from school bands and orchestras to some of the finest groups around. A colourful sight will be created as the students wear the uniform of the ensemble they represent. They come together to enjoy playing a wide variety of music to a high standard, which, for many, is not always possible in their own ensemble.

Tutors and conductors also come from many walks of life, some being professional musicians and teachers, whilst others are talented amateur musicians. All are chosen for their ability to pass on their enthusiasm to others.

Many of the musicians from further afield have brought the entire family to the area for a holiday in conjunction with the course. Those who look a little tired are probably the campers who have been staying on a campsite organised by volunteers. Camping is now a tradition for many, along with the customary evening activities such as talent shows, barbecues, games, pilgrimages to local hostelries, late evening fishing trips and many more activities (some of which the organisers prefer not to know about). The talent show evolved from an annual "challenge" between two of the staff, the loser having to perform an embarrassing forfeit in public.

It was with great sadness that John and Margaret chose to step down as organisers of this fantastic annual event. In 2003, a new management structure was formed and continues to administer WBSS.