Brass Band of Battle Creek (BBBC) ensured that the local population of the town was left in no doubt that they were going to be entertained by some of the very best players in the world this weekend.

Incredible playing

Two ensembles — one made up of a British contingent led by euphonium star Steven Mead and another of American/Canadian stars led by trumpet virtuoso Jens Lindemann performed a brace of sets at local venues — with the audience of donor supporters and locals enjoying plenty of incredible playing as well as being enticed to donate to the band.

There was something for everyone to enjoy — from the sound of bavarian oompah to a stratopheric Rex Richardson piing the ears back.

The 'Haulin' Brass' initiative saw the groups perform to packed audiences in the local Handmap Brewery Company outlet as well as the offices of Kreis Enderle Law Associates — with the two 'front-men' and friends wowing their audiences.

Say thanks

Jens, who was joined by the likes of Rex Richardson, David Hardman and Tony Baker for their, 'The Ego has landed' set told 4BR: "We did a set the last time we were able to play together here and it proved so popular that we just had to bring it back. It gave us a brilliant opportunity to meet our wonderful supporters and donors, and say thanks to the locals in town for hosting the band. All that and we wanted to show off too!"

Meanwhile Steve who teamed up with Mark Frost, Les Neish, Owen Farr and Phil Randell, added: "It's great to show an audience just what these fantastic brass band players can do — and no wonder the concert on Saturday night always proves to be so popular. Everything about Brass Band of Battle Creek is superbly organised and this fun event adds to that."