Foden’s Band is to feature in a new south Cheshire film production, which is to be made following backing from several local organisations.
Partnership
In partnership with Sandbach School and the Love Music Trust, the band will play a significant part in ‘Brass in the Blood’, a story set in and around the town, telling the fictional tale of love-struck teenager Harry Stone, a young cornet player who is also smitten by wanting to play in the Foden’s Band.
Scenes
Written by local author Jules Hornbrook, a number of scenes will be filmed at Sandbach School, something that delights Head Teacher Sarah Burns.
"The script rings true to local traditions bringing with it modern ideas that all age groups will be able to relate to with ease," she said.
"The film being set in the local area is a truly exciting prospect for the school, our pupils and the community."
Pupils at the school have already begun their contribution through a variety of subjects in collaboration with their national curriculum syllabus. This will allow them to engage in the developing project throughout pre and post production.
Unique brass score
Composer Adam Shilton is also developing a unique brass score for a movie.
"The historical relevance of the Foden’s Band and its industrial heritage has made a huge impact on the Sandbach community. To be able to document their history and that of other local bands in a film with a bespoke score is something special.
The community have come together for the band and the factory over the years and they have done so again for this film."
Undiscovered talent
He added: "Brass in the Blood has been specifically developed to showcase the undiscovered talent of all ages that we have in this area, and give young people the chance to gain experience in what could become a potential career."
Exciting
Foden’s principal cornet Mark Wilkinson is certainly looking forward to taking to the silver screen: "One of the exciting things about the project is that it will be the first to work with an original score for brass band alongside the film.
I’m looking forward to hopefully playing a cameo role!"
Innovative
It is also a project that certainly excites Foden’s Band Chairman, John Barber: "To have the opportunity to be involved with such an innovative project is a hugely positive thing, especially as we will work with local sponsor and partners such as The Love Music Trust and Repair World Direct, all of whom are delighted to involved in such a creative initiative."
Release
The project is now in pre-production ahead of casting which begins on 10th November and filming in early 2014.
Anyone interested in getting involved can see interviews, production information, casting and details about investment opportunities on the official website www.brassintheblood.com