It was standing room only at the Melbourne International Festival of Brass (MIFB) last night, when National Australia Brass and David King opened the doors to the public.

In the first of two open rehearsals, this fine collection of players were put through its paces under the direction of one of the worlds leading conductors, David King.

The evening was special in more ways than one. Amongst the audience were several brass band legends including Arthur Withers, Merv Preusker, and Ken Mellody.

Another chance

Another NAB open rehearsal will take place tonight from 6pm at 210 Berkeley Street, Melbourne.

Inaugural concert

On Friday evening, the band will perform in concert at Melba Hall as part of the Melbourne International Festival of Brass.

Jens Lindemann and the winner of the Barry Tuckwell prize will be featured artists accompanied by NAB.

Australian composers

The repertoire for the NAB inaugural concert on Friday October 3rd will include performances of major works by Australian composers including Dr Brenton Broadstock’s "Sunburnt Land" and Barry McKimm’s "Ash Wednesday".

New Commission

The programme will also feature two works by European composers, Johan de Meij’s "Extreme Makeover" and the world premiere of a new work for brass and percussion by Swiss composer Ludovic Neurohr — "Psyche", commissioned by National Australia Brass for the Melbourne International Festival of Brass 2008.

The concert will be streamed lived on www.themusicpage.com

Further information can be found at www.mifb.com.au