The newly crowned British Open champion Black Dyke has been quick to strengthen its ranks ahead of its National Championship assault at the Royal Albert Hall, with the signing of the outstanding Japanese percussionist Yasuaki Fukuhara.

Outstanding talent

Speaking to 4BR, Black Dyke Director of Music Prof Nicholas Childs, said that he was delighted to be able add a player of such world class talent to the Queensbury band.

"Yasu is an outstanding talent, who has developed enormously at the Royal Northern College of Music in the last couple of years. His recent CD release was sensational.

It’s a real coup to sign him at this exciting time for the band and for him to join our exceptional percussion team. We are all looking forward to welcoming him to Queensbury."

Thanks

Meanwhile, Yasuaki added: "I have had a fantastic year with Leyland Band and would like to thank them for their help and support including recording for my solo CD, ‘The Golden Apples of the Sun’.

I am thrilled to being associated with the Black Dyke Band as the very first Japanese player in their wonderful history. I am really looking forward to playing with such talented and hard-working musicians."

It’s a real coup to sign him at this exciting time for the band and for him to join our exceptional percussion team. We are all looking forward to welcoming him to QueensburyProf Nicholas Childs

Debut

Yasuaki made his Black Dyke debut on the weekend at Bridgewater Hall on Saturday 13th September, and will also be a featured soloist with the band at their forthcoming concert at Oldham Coliseum on October 3rd.