Besson euphonium virtuoso Steven Mead is currently in Asia at the beginning of a 21-day tour that will see him perform eight concerts and give seven masterclasses in seven countries.

Having touched down in Taipei, he will give his first concert later today (5th September) alongside the critically acclaimed pianist YuTing Hsu, whom he has performed with on several occasions.

South Korea, Hong Kong and Bangkok

Following the opening concert the duo will head to Jeju Island, South Korea — a quick return for Steven following his recent trip with Brass Band of Battle Creek and as a judge for the prestigious Jeju Euphonium Competition. On this occasion he will give a masterclass.

From South Korea the tour moves to Hong Kong for a masterclass at the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts as well as a recital at the famous Tom Lee Music store, before heading to Mahidol University in Bangkok, Thailand.

This will be Steven's second visit to the university this year where he will link up again with Boonyarit Kittaweepitak.

Singapore, Malaysia and China

The next leg is a visit to Singapore to liaise with the Singapore Armed Forces and its principal euphonium player, Kang Chun Meng, where he will give lessons and a masterclass, followed by a trio recital featuring Kang Chun Meng and Boonyarit Kittaweepitak.

The penultimate stop off is in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, where Steven will perform a recital as well as appear with the Seri Puteri Winds in performance of Philip Sparke's 'Omaggio Concerto'.

The final leg sees a visit to Nanjing, China, where he will be featured in a high-profile concert as well as giving masterclasses and lessons.

This has been a tour that has taken over a year in preparing and one that also celebrates some personal milestones as a professional artistSteven Mead

Personal milestones

Steven told 4BR: "This has been a tour that has taken over a year in preparing and one that also celebrates some personal milestones as a professional artist working with the likes of Besson and Denis Wick who have been such amazing supporters of my work.

I'm really looking forward to performing alongside YuTing Hsu, meeting old and new friends and ensuring that the sound of the euphonium is heard to as many people as possible.

All that and then its back to my 37th year as Professor of Euphonium at the RNCM — and I can't wait for that either."