One of the banding world’s most sought after soprano players, Martin Britt, will be making his official debut with the Virtuosi GUS Band at the Butlins Mineworker’s Festival this weekend – and will be sticking his reputation on the line from the first few bars of his first appearance too!

First appearance

It will be the player’s first contest appearance with the Midlanders since his move from the former Butlins winners and London Area champion Redbridge late last year.

All the best

Martin told 4BR: "I was sorry to leave Redbridge after three great years in which we retained the Area title, won Butlins, came so close to qualification for the British Open and were invited to compete at Brass in Concert.

I wish Jeremy Wise and the band all the best and hope to see them improve on last year's third place at the Grand Shield and finally get to Symphony Hall where I believe they belong."

Gary’s a very tough act to follow at GUS – he was a great player for the band, but I'm looking forward to that challenge, starting this weekend at ButlinsMartin Britt

Big shoes

Martin is filling some pretty big shoes at GUS – following the departure of the highly respected Gary Fountain to the ISB, but he is certainly looking forward to the challenge – even if it means a baptism of fire on ‘Un Vie de Matleot’.

"Gary’s a very tough act to follow at GUS – he was a great player for the band, but I'm looking forward to that challenge, starting this weekend at Butlins.

‘A Sailor’s Life’ is one of my favourite test pieces – although it does put you under pressure to perform right from the word go!"