This wonderful children’s book has been written by Amy Schumaker Bliss, the respected euphonium player of Atlantic Brass Band and lecturer at Rowan University near Philadelphia.

After the birth of her son in 2016 she was delighted that friends bought him plenty of musical toys and books – although all seemed to focus on the joys of playing in an orchestra (and even a marching band) but not a brass band.

Inspired to ensure that the next generation of potential young musicians should find out more about what playing in a brass band has to offer, Amy linked up with illustrator Allie Geddert to work on her idea – one that a year and a half later has resulted in this delightful publication.

Inclusion and diversity

It’s a book that also celebrates inclusion and diversity, all embraced in the joy of making music.  

The author cleverly links history, fun and understanding; the what, why and how pitched simply and clearly – from where it all began to the make-up and purpose of the ensemble; cornets to the tubas, rehearsals to contests, and even a neat little segue into beat patterns of the conductor.

The illustrations are brilliant (and accurate), but it is the overall message all about the joy to be found in picking up a brass band instrument anywhere in the world with friends and making music together that blows through every page.

The illustrations are brilliant (and accurate), but it is the overall message all about the joy to be found in picking up a brass band instrument anywhere in the world with friends and making music together that blows through every page.

Amy and Allie’s children are now just the right age to start enjoying this book – and hopefully so will thousands of others in the years to come. 

Iwan Fox

To purchase: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Amys-Brass-Band-Schumaker-Bliss/dp/1543960618