In this episode of Music, Learning, Conversation we chat with Will Evans. Will is a Senior Lecturer in Music Education at Manchester Metropolitan University, leader of the PGCE in Music and PGCE in Music with Specialist Instrument Teaching run by Manchester Metropolitan University with the Royal Northern College of Music, a brilliant tuba player with the Brighouse and Rastrick Brass Band (as well as its General Secretary), and - most importantly - a great friend!

There’s an African proverb along the lines of ‘it takes a village to raise a child’. In our conversation with Will, we think about this in relation to the importance of a rich social environment when learning to play an instrument. In particular, we focus on brass instruments given Will's experience as a professional tuba player and brass band musician. We consider how brass bands offer a unique environment for young musicians and what the rest of our can learn from this within our own musical learning and teaching.

Regular listeners will know that each episode of Music Learning Conversation features a piece of new music chosen by our guest. This week, Will has chosen The Floral Dance performed by his band, the Brighouse and Rastrick Band. This piece has a very special place in the band's history. Do listen to the end of the podcast to find out why!

Music Learning Conversation is hosted by Jonathan Savage and Andy Scott, and is a UCAN Play podcast.

Produced by Josh Savage

Title Music - JellyBaby
Written and Performed by Dave Hassell & Andy Scott
Remix by Stan Scott
Voice over Sam Marsden
Mixed & Produced by Paul Dormer