On a recent flight to New Zealand, John Barber, Fodens solo trombone player, was involved in a freak incident, during which a plastic drinks stirrer was inserted into his ear and which went through his eardrum and sent the ear into trauma.

As a result a 20% hole was created in the drum which has resulted in significant hearing loss in his left ear leaving it requiring surgery to allow the injury to fully heal.

During the freak incident, a plastic drinks stirrer was inserted into his ear which went through his eardrum and sent the ear into trauma4BR

Operation

As a direct result John has been advised not to play for eight weeks following the operation, preventing him taking part in the forthcoming English Nationals.

Return

It is hoped that the surgery will allow his hearing to return to somewhere near normal in 3 to 6 months, and he is hoping to be back with the Fodens Band as they attempt to defend their British Open title in Birmingham later this year.

Swedish sub

Swedish Trombonist Andreas Kratz from the Gothenburg Opera and good friend of Fodens Musical Director Garry Cutt has kindly agreed to make the trip for the competition and is scheduled to meet up with the band next weekend.