Final preparations are being put in place for the inaugural Chiswick Brass Festival which takes place on Saturday 22nd February.

The event is being organised by Royal College of Music graduates Tom Torley and Mila Ferramosca who have curated an outstanding line-up of musicians and ensembles which they hope will showcase brass music to a new audience.

On a mission

The duo told 4BR: "We are on something of a mission to promote the joy of brass music and create opportunities for young musicians. With that as our aim we are featuring performances from some of the most dynamic brass ensembles in the country."

These will include the Wigfield Brass Quintet, who will showcase both classical and contemporary pieces, whilst the all-female COR8 ensemble will bring their distinctive fusion of musical genres. They will be joined by the West London Tuba Quartet, a collective of Royal College of Music alumni and The Funny Bones, formed at the Royal Academy, which bring a unique expression to chamber music.

Power climax

Symphonic Brass Ensemble, a powerful 22-piece brass and percussion ensemble will conclude the event with a programme featuring Walton's 'Spitfire Prelude and Fugue', 'Fanfare for the Common Man', 'Pictures at an Exhibition' and Bernstein's iconic 'West Side Story'.

Tom and Mila added: "The performance will open with a special piano introduction by West End legend Michael Reed, whose extraordinary career as a conductor and arranger has shaped some of musical theatre's most iconic productions."

Masterclass

As part of the festival, Lee Tsarmakis, Principal Tuba of the London Philharmonic Orchestra, will lead a special Masterclass for brass players of all levels, whilst following the news of the recent passing of Elgar Howarth, Festival Artistic Director, Tom Torley, has chosen Howarth's musical arrangements for the events.

Reflecting on the festival's inspiration, he said: "As we mourn the death of Elgar Howarth, it is only fitting that we honour his legacy by performing some of his most celebrated brass arrangements. This festival is not just about music; it's about the magic that brass and percussion can create and the sense of community they inspire."

Sadly, many children don't have access to the same opportunities I had, so one of the key aims of this festival is to provide young musicians with the same opportunities that shaped my journeyTom Torley

Change lives

Torley, whose own journey into brass music transformed his life, believes deeply in its power to change lives.

"As a child, I struggled with concentration and focus, often facing behavioural challenges and attention difficulties. However, everything began to change when I discovered music. My passion for brass playing, and music in general, helped me develop focus in all areas of life.

Sadly, many children don't have access to the same opportunities I had, so one of the key aims of this festival is to provide young musicians with the same opportunities that shaped my journey."

He added: "Mila and I share a deep belief in the power of music to inspire and uplift, and through this festival, we hope to create lasting opportunities for the next generation. I truly believe brass music has the ability to transform lives and bring communities together."

Tickets:

www.chiswickbrassfestival.co.uk

or contact: chiswickbrassfeatival@gmail.com