York Railway Institute Band recently welcomed trombone star Brett Baker for a concert at St John's Chapel at the University of York.

Fantastic Polka

Led by Musical Director David Lancaster, the band provided the accompaniment for a showcase of solos from the Rath Instruments Artist, including Gordon Langford's 'Rhapsody for Trombone', Arthur Pryor's 'Fantastic Polka' and Joseph Kosma's 'Autumn Leaves'.

In addition Brett performed 'I Loves you, Porgy' arranged by the late Bill Geldard, and was joined by the band's trombone section for 'Bones in the Stores' arranged by Rob Wiffin.

Brett has just released his latest solo CD entitled, 'Light Fantastic' which features many of the solos accompanied by Flowers Band.

Meanwhile, the band, which won the North of England First Section Championship title last year is now looking forward to making its top section return at Durham in a few weeks' time.

Fine form

They also showed their form with fine renditions of evergreen march 'Honest Toil' (William Rimmer) to the contemporary sounds of Britany Spears' 'Toxic', as well as David Lancaster's own arrangement of Lady Marmalade'.

'In Perfect Peace' by Kenneth Downie was a real highlight whilst the evening closed with the rousing sounds of Borodin's 'Polovtsian Dances'.

The band returns to the concert stage when they will appear at the Creative Centre at York St John University on Saturday 9th March alongside the Darlington Clarinet Ensemble.