The European Brass Band Festival kicks off in Birmingham next week, with a fantastic prelude concert featuring the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain and The Band of Her Majesty's Royal Marines, Collingwood.

The unique musical collaboration takes place at on Thursday 28th April at Town Hall Birmingham (7.30pm) and promises to provide a wonderful start to the European attraction.

In Many Lands

The National Youth Band, fresh from the success of its Easter Course will once again be led by conductor Irene Anda and will be joined by trombone soloist Brett Baker.

Featured in the programme will be another chance to hear the new commission by composer Paul Saggers — 'In Many Lands: The Adventures of Mary Seacole', which was recently premiered by the band to widespread critical acclaim.

The composer was interviewed by Captain Sam Hairsine about the work and how he was inspired by the remarkable life and work of Mary Seacole.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-AGQvh_7bYw&t=5s

Premiere

The Band of Her Majesty's Royal Marines, Collingwood will also present a show-stopping programme — featuring a world premiere in the form of 'First Voyage' by Bandmaster, Warrant Officer 2 Hannah Trudgeon.

It tells the story of James Cook's first voyage to the South Pacific and references both the mission to study the transit of the planet Venus and the secret mission to find Terra Australis Incognita.

All this and Brett Baker will perform 'The Eternal Quest' by Ray Steadman-Allen, whilst added colour and excitement will be provided by the famous Corps of Drums.

Under 16s can attend the concert for free when attending with a paying adultorganisers

Free under 16s

Under 16s can attend the concert for free when attending with a paying adult. This discount is applied automatically at check-out — just choose the under 16 option when booking.

Please note that the offer is for one free child place for each paying adult.

Proceeds from the concert will go to the initiatives for young brass musicians, making it the perfect chance to hear an inspiring mix of young talent and banding excellence whilst also supporting the next generation of performers!

Tickets

Tickets for the Prelude concert are available at: https://bmusic.co.uk/events/ebbc-prelude