Brass Band of the Western Reserve from Ohio in the United States of America is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year.
Formed in 1997 with the arrival of Musical Director Dr Keith M Wilkinson from England, the band has been one of the leading competitive and artistic brass band ensemble in the country for the vast majority of its existence.
Heritage
To celebrate the occasion they recently commissioned Philip Sparke to write a special piece, entitled 'Heritage' for them.
The majestic concert march was given its premiere during a special celebration concert on October 7th and received an enthusiastic critical and popular response.
Among other items on what was a great evening of celebration and reminiscence were features by their stable of soloists led by principal cornet, Andrew Gates, followed by Michael Skotko, Anthony Chiporo, Jonathan Willis and Matthew George.
Additionally, six members of the cornet section gave a cracking rendition of 'Buglers Holiday' and again, later in the programme, in 'Concertante for Cornets and Band' by Steven Bulla.
A particularly poignant moment was provided by Matthew George, who chose to play Keith's arrangement of 'The Lord's Prayer' which he had made after the premature passing of prominent founder member, Rod Taylor4BR
Poignant moment
A particularly poignant moment was provided by Matthew George, who chose to play Keith Wilkinson's arrangement of 'The Lord's Prayer' which he had made after the premature passing of prominent founder member, Rod Taylor, and which led to his daughter, Bethany, travelling from New York to be a part of the evening.
Other items included Keith's arrangement of 'French Military March', 'Jubilation!' by James Curnow and 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' arranged by Steven Bulla.
Welcome return
BBWR will continue its celebrations throughout the 2017-18 season with four more concerts presented at Medina Performing Arts Centre, as well as several other concerts in the region, including the welcome return of Brett Baker next year as a guest soloist.
