In the first of a new video podcast series, 4BR Editor Iwan Fox talks to John Wallace CBE and Katrina Marzella-Wheeler about a free concert with a personal connection in more ways than one to the trumpeter's career and health.

John and Katrina have been working together on music to be featured in a special concert with the cooperation band this weekend in Glasgow.

Video podcast

Video podcast interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gAvJ_MvLk5k

Cancer charity

'Romantic Brass' is in aid of the Beatson Cancer Charity whose incredible work brings hope to so many — including John.

He has recently been a patient at the Beatson Clinic where he had time to reflect on his passion for Czech and Russian music and especially that of Dvorak and Rimsky-Korsakov, as well as that of Wagner, Schumann, and Sardillo which he has loved playing for many years.

Russian invasion

That goes back to the spring of 1968 when he was playing in Bayreuth and heard the sound of American Army tanks close to the Czechoslovakian border in response to Russia's invasion of the country.

John's tells the story and why he took the opportunity to write arrangements of the works which he feels suits brass bands perfectly, whilst Katrina talks more about the pieces themselves and how it has been an inspiration to work alongside John for this event.

To enjoy

Video podcast interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gAvJ_MvLk5k

Concert details:

Saturday, 15th February
7.30pm
Sherbrooke Mosspark Parish Church
Glasgow
G41 5AD

Works to be featured include 'Four Legends' by Dvorak, four movements from Rimsky-Korsakov's 'The Golden Cockeral', Wagner's 'Der Engel' featuring Jim Hayes, 'Ich grolle nicht' played by Stephanie Kennedy and 'Core 'ngrato' which spotlights Gordon Kaye.

There is also the opportunity to hear 'Diversions' by Derek Bourgeois ahead of the band's defence of their Scottish Championship title.

Support

Admission is FREE, and all donations go directly to support Beatson Cancer Charity.

If you can't be there in person but still wish to support, you can donate online at: www.justgiving.com/page/cooperationband2025