Three English ex-pats with a love for the sound of a British brass band have created something of a musical home from home for themselves in the beautiful surroundings of rural France.

Musical phenomenon

And after setting up a small brass ensemble in 2007 under the direction of Ron Fletcher, they have seen their past time grow into something of a local musical phenomenon.

Such has been the interest from the locals as well as ex -pats such as Nevill James in the small town of Limalonges, that numbers have grown, and now ‘Just Brass 79’ boasts 14 members with more wishing to join.

Irresistable mix

Although the band rehearse just once a week in the heart of the town, the music has a very British flavour with old William Rimmer marches and operatic selections proving to be an irresistible mix for players who come to play with the band from the surrounding area.

And with a 50/50 mix we can converse and make ourselves understood in both languages. We also enjoy the after practice glass of wine too!Rob Burnett

Cory

And one such ex-pat who is enjoying it more than most is a Welshman — former Cory, Tredegar and Parc & Dare euphonium player Rob Burnett, who has been living in the area for a number of years.

Rob told 4BR: "I got involved when Ron, their original conductor died suddenly, and I stepped in to take the baton for a small local concert. I really enjoyed it, and amazingly the family of the conductor donated his old Sovereign euphonium to the band, and asked if I could play for them from now on. It was an offer I couldn’t refuse!"

Bitten again!

After a few concerts Rob, with a replacement player ready to take over his euphonium seat, accepted the invitation to conduct the band – and now he is totally bitten by the banding bug again!

"The players involved are all wonderful," he added. "And with a 50/50 mix we can converse and make ourselves understood in both languages. We also enjoy the after practice glass of wine too!"

Punchinello

Rob is delighted that such a British musical institution has proved so popular in the heartland of France. "The French lads love playing the great old marches such as 'Punchinello', and they are all keen as Dijon mustard to improve their playing and attract even more players to the band. It’s starting to get serious."

Pay a visit

So if you are in the Limalonges area for a holiday or perhaps thinking of coming out to live, Rob wants to hear from you. "It’s a beautiful place to live, and you can enjoy your music too. I wish I had done it years ago!"

More information on the band can be found at: www.justbrass79.fr