Campbeltown Brass

Willie Ralston BBb Bass

Willie Ralston started playing tuba when he was 9, when offered a choice of instrument at the start, he found the biggest one he could and just wanted to play it! He is also a self taught percussionist, up to point!

He has been swapping between EEb and BBb Bass in the band since he started in Campbeltown Brass in 1988, and has sat principal of both instruments during the most of his 10 years at the NYBBS courses. He is also a member of the Young Ambassadors Brass Band of Great Britain.

He has won various trophies for his solo achievements, both at local level and national level, and has toured Austria, Holland, USA, Canada and Luxembourg in the past.

He is one of the few members who has returned to the town after College and helps encourage Campbeltown's younger band members. Willie used to work in a local tractor garage, but now works at home on the family farm.

Willie Ralston

Year joined: 1988.
Favourite pieces: St Magnus, Extreme Makeover, Paganinni Variations and Alan Morrison's "Over the Rainbow."
Best banding moment: Receiving NYBBS trophy in 1998.
Worst banding moment: Forgetting my mouthpiece at my 1st contest and 2005 Area result!!
Best or most satisfying playing experience: Playing at 12am in Delph, with "Tartan Brass" during the 2006 Whit Friday Marches, the atmosphere was amazing!!
Favourite drink: Vodka & Coke, no ice, if you're buying!
Favourite food: Chocolate!
Favourite film: Shawshank Redemption.
Words of wisdom: "To become old & wise, 1st be young & stupid!"