Just a few weeks after he was in the Norwegian city working with 4BR, Besson euphonium star Steven Mead has flown back to Bergen — this time for a six day visit to lead a series of activities with leading education establishments and brass band musicians.
Partnership
Planned in partnership with Besson and Musikk Miljo, Steve begins his visit with a rehearsal evening with the Tertnes Band in preparation for a concert on Sunday, conducted by former Black Dyke tuba star Joe Cook.
Joe and Steve will also be part of a low brass ensemble comprising musicians from Manger Musikklag and Eikanger Bjorsvik who will perform at the event.
Three hour masterclass
On Friday, Steve will give a special three-hour masterclass at the famous Greig Academy, whilst on Saturday he will be part of a 'Low Brass Spectacular' hosted by newly crowned Norwegian National Champions Eikanger Bjorsvik, to 50 students at their rehearsal room in Knarvik.
Monday sees him focusing on the brilliant musical talent at the Manger Folkehogskule working with their award winning brass band as well as giving valuable tuition, before taking time to also link up with several leading young euphonium players at the Musikk Miljo Music Store who will have travelled from all over Norway to have a lesson with him.
It's great to be back in Bergen. There is such a wonderful vibrancy about the brass band scene here that I'm sure the six days are going to be a fantastic experienceSteven Mead.
Great to be back
Steve told 4BR: "It's great to be back in Bergen. There is such a wonderful vibrancy about the brass band scene here that I'm sure the six days are going to be a fantastic experience.
Besson and Musikk Miljo are great supporters of Norwegian banding, and it also says a great deal that bands and players at all levels — from the likes of Eikanger and Manger to Tertnes, leading euphonium students and children at the Manger Folkehogskule all want to play their part too.
He added though: "I just hope it's a bit warmer than it was a few weeks ago though. It was freezing then!"
