The first 'Brass Band Camp' in Jpan was held in Hamamatsu on the weekend of 13th August.

The organisers of 'BBCH', Atsuhiko Okamoto and Toshiaki Kameyama are also founders of Hamamatsu Brass Band, which was formed in 2004.

A few years ago Atsuhiko came to the UK to study with Professor David King and is a former principal cornet of Breeze Brass Band from Osaka.

King

Toshiaki worked for Yamaha and now makes custom made mouthpieces for well-known players from all over the world such as Hans Gansch.

Professor King has appeared as a guest soloist and conductor with Hamamatsu Brass Band for the past two years and will make a welcomed return to Japan in November. It was David’s idea to hold a Japanese Summer School.

Enjoyed

Philip Harper and Foden’s baritone player Natsumi Inaba were heavily involved in this year's inaugural camp, where 70 participants from 16 different bands nationwide enjoyed plenty of rehearsals and traditional brass band music making.

The camp included massed band rehearsals with Atsuhiko and Philip, as well as concerts conducted by Philip, featuring soloists Atuhiko Okamoto, Masayo Umino, Takahiro Oshio and Natsumi Inaba and various ensembles.

70 participants from 16 different bands nationwide enjoyed plenty of rehearsals and traditional brass band music making4BR

Solo winner

The camp also held a solo competition that was won by 15-year-old cornet player Shiho Takeda from Suzume Youth Brass Band, who played 'Willow Echoes.'

Shiho will now receive an invitation to participate in Ern Keller International Soloist of the Year 2011.

History and future

The history of the Japanese Brass Band only goes back to 1972 and BBCH has helped the movement in its progression and recognition.

The organisers also announced that the 2nd BBCH will be held on 12th, 13th and 14th August 2011.