A breathless Steven Mead is back clocking up the airmiles.

The euphonium star has just had enough time to catch a quick change of clothes and a cup of English tea at home before he takes to the air again on yet another trip abroad.

Japan

Recently Steven has been performing in Japan, playing at a number of prestigious venues where he took the opportunity to premiere Peter Graham’s latest major opus for euphonium to stunned audiences.

Norway

With scarcely a change to find his feet on UK soil he was off once again – this tie to Norway where he will be working with the current Norwegian champion, Eikanger Bjorsvik band on a number of projects.

In terms of musical complexity this album breaks new ground, as it brings together some of the most challenging euphonium literature ever composed...Steven Mead

CD release

All this and he has just had time to launch another new CD release. Steve told 4BR: "It’s been very hectic, but highly enjoyable in the last few weeks, and although I’m a bit tired of airline food it has been well worth it as a musical journey. I had a fantastic response in Japan, especially with the Graham work and the hunger for brass playing out there is amazing."

As for the forthcoming CD release, Steven is optimistic that it breaks new ground. "In terms of musical complexity this album breaks new ground, as it brings together some of the most challenging euphonium literature ever composed.

Dangerous

Teaming up with the brilliant Japanese pianist Tomoko Sawano this disc presents some seriously ‘dangerous’ music with challenges for the artists almost unheard of until quite recently. Both concerti and the majority of the works on the second disc are world premiere recordings."

Flight

And before he could tell us more, he was off on another flight – this time to Norway. "It’s a wonderful chance to work with a wonderful band. If I get the time I will keep everyone informed how it has gone!"