Desford Colliery Band has returned from the Far East having enjoyed a highly successful concert tour.

Ten day trip

The ten-day trip, took in three countries, seven flights and nearly 40 flying hours, as well as copious amounts of free flowing Stella Artois, pool time, and even a touch of Salsa!

Following two days of intensive rehearsals under the baton of Jason Katsikaris, the band performed to a full house at the Gala Concert for Singapore’s ‘Brass Explosion’ in the Victoria Concert Hall.

Brass Explosion

'Brass Explosion’ is a 3 day festival of brass music organised by the band's principal cornet player David Smith and included international artists from around the world giving recitals and masterclasses for local brass players, some of which were given by the band players.

During the Gala Concert Desford was in fine form, as were featured soloists Katrina Marzella and Brenden Wheeler.

Pines of Rome

The finale of the concert included the 15 strong faculty members joining with the band for 'Pines Of Rome'. With the addition of French horns, extra trumpets and low brass, the roof was well and truly lifted and resulted in a standing ovation.

Local legend

For the concert the band was joined on stage by Leicester born jazz legend Henry Lowther, for a memorable performance on flugel of his own 'Ballad' from 'Sticks and Stones'.

Henry revealed that being a local lad, he had always followed the fortunes of Desford very closely and there are now plans in place to work with him in the future.

It's hoped that many of the children will be encouraged to take up playing brass instruments through the bands efforts and that there is a new generation of brass band fans in the Far EastDesford Band

New generation

A band spokesperson told 4BR: "The band then travelled to Indonesia and the Philippines for further sell out concerts, which were well received, as were the additional demonstrations given to the school children, many of whom had never heard a brass band before.

They added: "It's hoped that many of the children will be encouraged to take up playing brass instruments through the bands efforts and that there is a new generation of brass band fans in the Far East!"

The next Desford tour is already in planning and hopes to include a concert in Beijing.