Rushen Silver Band from the Isle of Man will soon head to Scotland for a weekend of music making in Edinburgh and Perth.

Once there they will perform a concert at Saughton Park in Edinburgh on Saturday 10th August (3.00pm) before heading to Perth the following day to play their part in the 'Brass in the Park' day at Strathallan School.

That event has been organised by the Scottish Brass Band Association (SBBA) to coincide with the end of the National Youth Brass Band of Scotland (NYBBS) summer course.

Evans tribute

It will pay tribute to the memory of Richard Evans, who passed away in 2022, and whose contribution to Scottish banding was mirrored with Rushen, where he was a proud musical advisor for over 20 years.

A band spokesperson told 4BR: "We are honoured to be able to perform at this special event, which will celebrate a life that touched brass band communities throughout the world.

In 2022, composer Alan Fernie wrote a march in memory of Richard which was jointly premiered by Rushen and the National Youth Brass Band of Scotland. Ever since the band has been raising funds through its sale with over £800 raised so far. It's great that we can perform it once again on our Scottish trip."

The piece can be purchased at: https://rushensilverband.sumupstore.com

Delighted

Speaking about the trip Band Chairman, Chris Weldon, said "Overseas visits are not unusual for the band, but we are delighted to be playing at the special Brass in the Park event.

The visit also gives us a chance to build further relationships with NYBBS after a number of our younger players have taken part in courses."

We are honoured to be able to perform at this special event, which will celebrate a life that touched brass band communities throughout the worldRushen Silver Band

Privilege

Musical Director, John Kinley, who played under Richard Evans added: "I had the privilege of knowing Richard as conductor, mentor and friend for over 30 years.

It's therefore an honour to have been invited to this event organised by SBBA and NYBBS, and it will be a pleasure to meet up with many old friends including former members of Rushen Silver Band."

Rushen Silver Band is grateful for the support of the Isle of Man Steam Packet and the Isle of Man Arts Council, both of whom have provided funding to make the trip possible.