A catch up with… Andy Robinson
Andy Robinson - Solo Eb Bass, Dobcross Silver Band
I’ve crossed the pennines several times to visit the Dobcross Social club and witness the fantastic venue which is full of so much history and memorabilia. In my list last visit, I attended the Dobcross Silver Band’s open rehearsal and was warmly welcomed by all. This was one of their last rehearsals ahead of their area competition, in which they won!
Following this amazing victory, I caught up with Solo Eb Bass player Andy Robinson to find out more about him and his life as a brass musician.
As a brass musician, can you tell me about your first experience of brass music, where did your brass journey first begin?
At Primary school when I was 7, I was selected to play the cornet because I could play the recorder and read music.
What do you enjoy about being a brass musician the most? What is it that keeps you coming back for more?
I love the camaraderie that you get when playing in a band, where you experience the highs and lows as a team...I'm quite a driven person so the lure of winning contests is what drives me.
Can you tell me about a memorable musical moment? What made it so special?
I have a few....
1st - Winning the 2nd Section National Finals at the Royal Albert Hall in 2000 with Oldham Brass '97. It speaks for itself....
2nd - Winning the North West 4th Section Area with The Oldham Band Lees in 2005 & 6
3rd - Winning my first contest that I played with Dobcross Silver after a 17 year hiatus in 2023!
With the band being based within one of the Whit Friday villages, how would you describe Whit Friday to anyone who has never been before?
The greatest free show on earth, its just a spectacle that cant be matched!
After success at the North West Areas, are you someone who enjoys contesting? or do you just accept that it's part of banding?
I love contesting...the more the merrier for me!
What do you think can be done to get more younger musicians into brass music?
The government and local authorities need to focus on grass roots again, make it more affordable and accessible in primary schools so that its open to all and not a fortunate few.
What bass and mouthpiece do you use? What do you particularly like about them?
I play on a EEb Besson Sovereign 982 with a Mercer and Barker MB4 mouthpiece, I've always played on a Besson Tuba since I joined my first brass band at the age of 16, they have such a great sound. I switched to the MB4 12 months ago after struggling with the lower register for some time since I returned playing, and it was a revelation...fantastic mouthpiece that gives me control in both the lower and upper registers, not just a gimmick like some might say!
Finally, i have to ask... What's your favourite march?
ORB by Charles Anderson
Thanks for speaking to me Andy and congratulations on your bands victory!