An ensemble for the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain recently took part in a prestigious gala concert at the Queen Elizabeth Hall in London as part of it's exciting and colourful 'Alchemy Festival'.

Rich contrasts

The high profile event is dedicated to exploring the rich contrasts and connections between UK, Indian and South Asian culture.

As well as the NYBBGB ensemble, the festival also included contributions from the South Asia Music Youth Orchestra (SAMYO) and the National Youth Jazz Collective.

Directed by John Maines, the ensemble performed items for the entertainment of the assembled guests and audience, including 'Zurich March' and a stunning performance of 'My Love is Like A Red Red Rose' featuring principal cornet James Fountain.

The young players from all three National Youth Music organisations experienced a great opportunity to fuse together the diverse musical cultures as well as renewing friendships made over the years. It was a superb eventJohn Maines

Combined forces

They also joined forces with SAMYO under the direction of composer Gaurav Mazumdar in a work entitled, 'Celebration', which was written by Gaurav for the two groups.

As part of their ongoing musical and cultural diversity policy the NYBBGB have collaborated with SAMYO on a regular basis since 2005 and the ongoing collaboration once again drew a superb reaction from the enthusiastic audience.

Superb

John Maines told 4BR: "The young players from all three National Youth Music organisations experienced a great opportunity to fuse together the diverse musical cultures as well as renewing friendships made over the years. It was a superb event."