Yamaha Neo cornet artist Vincent Bearpark is set to make his British Open debut as a principal cornet this weekend, when he takes to the end chair with North West challengers Leyland.

Talents

The multiple Swiss solo champion is regarded as one of European banding's finest young talents and has gained a renowned reputation in his home country with his exceptional playing.

He has already held principal cornet roles with a number of prestigious Swiss bands and was the 'Best Soloist' at the 2013 and 2014 Swiss National Championships.

Thrilled

Yamaha's Chris Dunkley told 4BR: "We are thrilled that Vincent (with his father Angelo, above)will be playing the outstanding Yamaha Neo cornet at one of the world's most prestigious brass banding contests.

These events are high pressure, high stress situations where instrument reliability is paramount, and it's a great testament that Vincent has chosen the Yamaha Neo to perform on."

These events are high pressure, high stress situations where instrument reliability is paramount, and it's a great testament that Vincent has chosen the Yamaha Neo to perform onYamaha

Partnership

Since 2010, Yamaha has enjoyed an innovative partnership with Leyland Band, culminating in 2014 in the creation of the North West Youth Brass Band which is also a partnership with Blackpool Music Education Hub and the National Association of Brass band Conductors.

Chris added: "Yamaha and Leyland have succeeded in creating a powerful and inspirational performance and training platform for talented young brass and percussion players — and the latest link with Leyland through Vincent shows this once more."