As part of the University of Manchester Brass Band’s (UMBB) continuing development, it has been announced that they have entered into an innovative partnership with the Fairey Band, the newly crowned North West Regional Champion.

New venture

The new venture will involve leading Fairey players mentoring members of the University band, which will initially culminate in an inaugural joint concert on the 5th April.

Exciting

UMBB principal cornet, Illy Quane, is certainly looking forward to the chance to work with Fairey: "I'm excited about the opportunity to play alongside some of the country's finest players, and expect our band to come out of it truly inspired."

Soprano player James Yeadon added: "We are very proud of our first three years as a band, and are looking forward to continue our improvement with the Fairey Band. The concert should be amazing fun too!"

Long term development

Fairey Band Manager Nigel Beasley, also sees the partnership as part of a longer term development between the organisations.

"We are delighted to continue what has become a very enjoyable association with the University Brass Band.

They certainly have some remarkable talent in their ranks, talent that we believe the Fairey Band can help develop further. We hope that this innovative partnership will result in the University students becoming part of the next generation of brass band stars."

We hope that this innovative partnership will result in the University students becoming part of the next generation of brass band starsFairey Band Manager Nigel Beasley

Concert debut

The University Band recently claimed second place in the Uni Brass National Championships for the second time, whilst they will also perform in a variety of concerts and venues over Northern Ireland later this year.

The joint UMBB/Fairey concert will be held on Saturday 5th April at 7.30pm, at Holy Name Church, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PG.