Paul Duffy and Brett Baker have just returned from a successful musical weekend in Appenzell in Switzerland.

Guest soloist

Paul (above), who will appear with Brass Band Winterthur as guest soloist in their forthcoming New Year’s Day concert, teamed up with Brett to work on pieces with the band for the high profile event through a series of workshops, sectional and full rehearsals.

Brass Band Winterthur was formed 20 years ago from an existing ‘Posaunechoir’ (Trombone Choir), and their new conductor Marco Frischknecht has taken the opportunity to ensure his first concert appearance was going to be a memorable one by booking the former Black Dyke duo to help.

Paul will perform ‘Carnival of Venice’, ‘Una poco voce far’ and his own arrangements of Duke Ellington big band numbers.

Fantastic time

Band member Ian Keeble told 4BR: "The band had a fantastic time working with these two complete professionals. We have picked up a lot of advice and are looking forward to the New Year`s concert with Paul. It`s going to be something special!”

Great fun

Brett meanwhile added: “This is the second away weekend I have had with the band in the beautiful Swiss Alps — and it’s like living for a few days in a Christmas postcard.

The band is great fun, and we made a lot of progress on the pieces ready for the concert — and for next year’s event.”