Brass bands in the UK may well complain about the type of scant coverage they occasionally receive on local, regional or even national television, but in Switzerland it appears things are done a little differently.

13 minute feature

The European champion Brass Band Valaisia was recently featured in an extensive 13 minute news presentation ahead of their defence of the Swiss National title in Montreux.

Broadcast on the French language RTS Channel, part of the national television network, it contained interviews with the MD, Arsene Duc, leading players such as principal cornet Vincent Bearpark, family members and even the local landlord at the pub where the Belle Vue Challenge Cup, presented to the band after their British Open win, now proudly resides.

Creme de la creme

As the presenter described it, the win was achieved against the 'creme de la creme' of UK bands — with the celebrations on the Symphony Hall stage (as well as a snippet of their performance) also shown.

In addition, the history of the band was explored as were the connections between the Bearpark family and the British Open through Angelo Bearpark's time playing with Black Dyke, whilst confident opinions from supporters about the chances at the Swiss Nationals were also heard.

As the presenter described it, the win was achieved against the 'creme de la creme' of UK bands — with the celebrations on the Symphony Hall stage (as well as a snippet of their performance) also shown4BR

Find out more:

Go to: 34.50 mins in at
https://www.rts.ch/play/tv/mise-au-point/video/brass-band-valaisia?id=9118610