James Gourlay has settled in very nicely to the American way of musical life with River City Brass, and will lead his new band in a series of high profile concerts celebrating American heroism at seven locations throughout Western Pennsylvania.

Celebrations

As part of the country’s Veteran’s Day celebrations throughout November, James will lead River City Brass in performing concerts with a patriotic theme where military personnel and their families are remembered.

Cultural life

James told 4BR that the events are an integral part of American cultural life: "It is so important that we take time to remember and to recognize the enormous debt that we owe to those who have sacrificed so much to make our countries safe."

He added: "However, this series of concerts is not a solemn memorial service. I hope that the audience will feel that each concert is a celebration of heroes and heroism – not just the outstanding members of the military but also those leaders, artists, and fictional characters who have come to define being a hero."

Every episode was an epic battle between good and evil, white hats versus black hats. How much more American, heroic, can a story be?James Gourlay

Entertainment

James though has ensured that as with all things American, there will be plenty of entertainment on offer too: "Immediately, when I was making my list of heroes, I thought of Superman! He is the archetypal American hero – he’s impervious to all danger, he’s self-sacrificing, and he faces evil without flinching. Star Trek, well that’s a traditional American Western set in outer space.

Every episode was an epic battle between good and evil, white hats versus black hats. How much more American, heroic, can a story be?"