Tuba star Les Neish has just returned from a wonderful weekend in Belgium.

Guest

Les was the guest soloist with the Belgian National Champion, Brass Band Buizingen for their annual Valentine's concert.

The tuba star performed five solos, including Andy Scott’s 'Salt of the Earth', to such acclaim that his CD of the music was sold out before the start of his seocnd half performance.

Les displayed excellent musicianship and playing during the concert and provided us with an excellent workshopLuc Vertommen

Impeccable

Buizingen performed impeccably throughout the evening, under the direction of Luc Vertommen, performing a demanding programme that included the premiere of 'The Golden Gryphon' by Tom De Haes.

On Valentines Day morning, Les held a class for tuba players from around the Buizingen area. The informative morning included ensemble playing and the opportunity for every participant to play a solo work and benefit from a 30-minute lesson with Les.

Excellent musicianship

Commenting on the weekend, Luc Vertommen told 4BR: "Les displayed excellent musicianship and playing during the concert and provided us with an excellent workshop."

It really has been a very busy and exciting few months for Les.

He now prepares for a workshop weekend in Germany with Steven Mead, whilst 'Salt of the Earth' is due to be reviewed in Classical Music magazine.