The National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain is currently being out through its paces by Fairey Band MD Garry Cutt as they prepare for their concerts appearances in Repton and Stoke on Trent this weekend.

The Marple Maestro has picked a programme that celebrates the rich history of brass band repertoire with works by six different composers, including William Rimmer and Elgar Howarth.

Major works

Major works will include Wilfred Heaton's 'Meditation on Aberystwyth' as well as 'Of Distant Memories' by Edward Gregson. Contrast will come not only with Peter Graham's 'Shine As the Light', but also Gregson's early 'Prelude for an Occasion' and two distinct works from Elgar Howarth — 'Pel Mel' and 'Jeanie with the Light Brown Hair'.

The guest soloist this year is Carol Jarvis, the hugely respected freelance trombonist who has performed with many of the world's leading artists — from pop to classical.

Thrilled

Garry told 4BR: "I'm thrilled to be conducting the band once more. I enjoyed a great time a couple of years ago sharing the duties with Bramwell Tovey as well as few years before that as an assistant to Elgar Howarth.

It's a real honour to be asked and I'm looking forward to leading these remarkable young players in two showcase concerts."

It's a real honour to be asked and I'm looking forward to leading these remarkable young players in two showcase concertsGarry Cutt

Principal players:

Principal Cornet: Thomas Nielsen
Soprano: Matthew Hall
Flugel: Sebastian Williman & Eleanor Joy
Horn: Grace Jeffers
Baritone: Rose Hancock
Euphonium: Joshua Brierley
Trombone: Adam Warburton & Joseph Heartfield
Bass Trombone: Oliver Atherton
EEb Bass: Gregor Spence
BBb Bass: George Mitchell
Percussion: Emily Quick

Concerts:

Friday 2nd August (7.30pm)
400 Hall
Repton School
Derbyshire

Saturday 3rd August (7.30pm)
Victoria Hall
Stoke on Trent

Tickets for both event scan be purchased at the venues.