After an enjoyable week in Swansea where he was a tutor on the International Brass Band Summer School Course, Rath Artist Brett Baker recently spent a week in the Brazilian city of Fortaleza as a guest artist at National Brazilian Trombone Festival.

It saw the Cory soloist involved in a week of workshops, concerts, ensemble classes and full ensemble experiences.

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Brett was featured playing with its Wind Ensemble on Philip Wilby's 'Light Fantastic' Concerto and Arthur Pryor's 'Fantastic Polka', as well as the hugely respected University of Fortaleza Symphony Orchestra where he performed Ropartz's 'Piece in Eb' and Leo Zimmerman's 'Autumn Dreams'.

He also provided an extended recital where he also performed 'Shout' by Rob Wiffin, 'Autumn Leaves' and much to the delight of the audience, 'Brazilia' by Robin Dewhurst.

Memorable

Speaking to 4BR on his return he said: "This was my third trip to Brazil and just as memorable as previous visits. The delegates and audiences are very appreciative — although the local mosquitos also enjoyed my company!

My Portuguese is very dodgy, so they were very helpful in getting me through the week, especially in ordering the wonderful food."

He added: "It's been 12 years since my last visit and I was honoured to be the only English artist at the festival and to be asked to return as soon as possible."