FROME Town Band is bidding farewell to one of its most talented musicians as she embarks on a new chapter in her life as a student at the Royal Academy of Music in London.
The group report, “Eliza Talman has won a scholarship to the prestigious academy, which attracts some of the most talented young musicians from across the world. The 18-year-old started her musical journey ten years ago as a member of the town’s brass band, which welcomes players of all levels and abilities.
“At first she only played the cornet in the band, but Eliza swiftly moved on to become an accomplished player of the flugelhorn. Those early days playing in the band were memorable not just for the music, but for the opportunity to stay up late, and enjoy a treat at the end of the evening.”
Eliza recalls, “When I started, the band used to play on a Wednesday and a Friday, between 7.30 and 9pm, which was really late for me. It was the latest I was allowed to stay up and I got a cup of hot chocolate afterwards which was a real treat.”
The inspiration for Eliza to take up the trumpet and the cornet was her mother Kate, who also plays. After some early lessons, she suggested Eliza graduated to the beginners’ section of the band.
“There were lots of the people in the band then – which was good because my mistakes were more easily hidden! I started playing at the back, with people who were much better playing over me. No one could tell how bad I was.
“I remember doing concerts when I started and thinking, I don’t think anyone can see or hear me.”
Eliza soon began to make herself heard, flying through her grades. She passed her Grade 8 when she was 15. She believes the band gave her the inspiration, pushing her to keep up with other young players while supporting one another.
“The reason I wanted to practise was so that I could get better and play at the same level as those people around me in the band. Joining a band like I did is a great way of getting better quickly. I’d recommend it to anyone. Playing the trumpet and cornet allows you to play so many different types of music. You’ve just to go hear a brass band play Star Wars – with its trumpet fanfare. That is so exciting. The whole thing about being in an ensemble makes playing an instrument so much fun. When you hear a brass band playing music there is no way you could not want to be part of it.”
That passion for music spreads through Eliza’s family. Besides her mum Kate, who is an outstanding player of numerous brass instruments, her brothers Stan, 17, and 13-year-old Billy are accomplished percussionists while dad Chris, plays the tuba. Eliza starts at the Royal Academy in September, a challenge she can’t wait to unfold. However, when she’s back in Frome at Christmas she’ll be looking forward to catching up with the band, and joining them as they play carols in the town in the build up to Christmas.
“I’ve learnt through experience that when you play outside in December you need a good pair of gloves to help you play properly,” she said.
The band’s musical director Chris Turner is full of praise for Eliza’s achievements.He said, “When I first arrived at Frome Town Youth Band (as it was then) three years ago, Eliza was already shining through as a top quality brass player. Her strong technique and musicality were quickly evident and now she is reaping the rewards she so deserves.
“It just shows how grass roots music groups in communities around the nation are so important in introducing young players to their instruments and helping with their development. Even though she is more of a guest player these days, we are very lucky to have Eliza as part of our band.”
If you fancy the opportunity of playing alongside Eliza, the band is on the look out for new members, of any age or ability. They meet every Wednesday during term time at the Old Media Centre at Frome College, attached to the leisure centre. Beginners are welcome to come along for an introductory session between 6- 6.45pm. Anyone who is interested should email contactfrometownband@gmail.com
