Sterling Instruments artist and Fairey Band solo baritone player Rob Richardson has just returned from his second trip to Norway in as many months, appearing as guest soloist with Viba Bondebrass in their annual Christmas concert.

Stunning surroundings

The event took place amid the stunning surroundings of Bryne Church, south of Stavanger, where Rob played a number of solos, accompanied by organ and band, as well as appearing with a sextet comprising former and current players of Norwegian National and Siddis champion, Stavanger (above).

Viba Bondebrass was jointly conducted by Tarjei Hummelsund and Arfon Owen, who have managed the band since its formation in mid-2014, with the concert raising funds for the band's forthcoming trip to Wales in 2016.

Speechless

Tarjei told 4BR: "It was great to have Rob in Norway again and his brilliant musicality and wonderful technique left the audience speechless! We are looking forward to his return as a teacher and soloist next year."

Thanks to the support of Sterling Instruments it was a great pleasure to be able to perform alongside the band in the wonderful church acoustics, and I'm looking forward to my next visit to Norway in 2016Rob Richardson

Pleasure

Meanwhile, Rob was equally enthusiastic: "Thanks to the support of Sterling Instruments it was a great pleasure to be able to perform alongside the band in the wonderful church acoustics, and I'm looking forward to my next visit to Norway in 2016.

I will be writing a number of pieces to be played by youth bands there when their contesting season commences.

It was also great fun to be able to play in one of Stavanger Band's first rehearsals as they start to prepare to defend their Norwegian National title."