Members of the Desford Band have finally recovered from their jet lag as they reflect on a highly successful tour to Japan.

Hospitality

Band Chairman Pete Smith told 4BR: "We would like to express our appreciation for the hospitality shown by the three bands we shared the stage with; Utsunomiya Brass Society, Suzumenomiya Youth Band and Saitama Premier Brass. They were wonderful hosts who made us feel very welcome."

Desford have regularly entertained audiences in the Far East in recent years and this year Peter Smith fulfilled his long lasting desire to take the band to Japan through the help of Foden’s baritone player Natsumi McDonald.

Culinary highlight

Natsumi worked tirelessly throughout the week long trip to ensure every member of the band had a memorable experience her homeland.

A real highlight was the generosity shown by Natsumi’s parents at their family restaurant, where the band was treated to an exquisite traditional meal that ensured everyone had a true taste of the culinary delights of Japan.

Music guide

Nigel Seaman expertly guided Desford through a varied programme of repertoire with notable solo contributions from principal cornet Gary Wyatt, tour solo trombone John Barber and guest soloist David Childs.

However, a solo highlight of the tour was not actually from a Desford player, but from 13 year old horn player Ayumi Kikuchi from the Saitama Premier Brass, who broke down in tears following the reception from the band players after her outstanding performance of Kenneth Downie’s ‘Piper O’Dundee’.

Sights as well as sounds

Thankfully, the busy tour schedule allowed for plenty of sight-seeing opportunities, with trips to the Shrines and Temples of Nikko, whilst the bright city lights of Tokyo provided a fitting end to a memorable tour.

Above all though, we thank the people of Japan, who left an indelible impression on the players through their kind, humble and genuine hospitalityBand Manager Peter Smith

Thanks

Peter Smith added: "Desford Band would like to thank Natsumi McDonald, without whom the tour would simply not have been possible, the guest players who embraced the Desford ethos of building positive international relations within the global brass band movement.

Above all though, we thank the people of Japan, who left an indelible impression on the players through their kind, humble and genuine hospitality."