Former Black Dyke soprano star Benjamin Richeton has just returned from a short trip to Japan where he was the guest soloist of the Northern Crystal Brass Band in Sapporo.

Not only did he perform to a packed audience at the band's annual concert under the baton of conductor Hiroe Tada, but he also enjoyed undertaking a series of masterclasses and workshops in schools in the city.

Love of bands

Ben told 4BR: "Hiroe and I first met when we played at YBS Band. We were both music students at the University of Salford — I was an undergraduate and Hiroe was doing her Masters, and we become great friends through our love of brass bands.

Being French and Japanese made for some great conversations talking about English banding!"

He added: "Hiroe has become a successful educator and conductor in Japan and I was thrilled and honoured to be invited out to work with her and so many wonderful students — and all so eager to learn. We've had a great time catching up and reminiscing!"

Ben visited several schools in the Sapporo area, leading brass workshops, teaching trumpet students, tutoring student ensembles and conducting youth brass bands ahead of upcoming competitions.

So supportive

"The overall sense of discipline with the students is so admirable,"he said. "They are eager to learn about all aspects of brass playing — especially about producing the traditional British brass band sound. It was so encouraging to see so many students make the long journey to come and listen at the concert — it was so supportive."

Ben's trip certainly finished in memorable style with members of the Northern Crystal Band taking him out to a traditional meal before a night of karaoke in Sapporo's party district.

Ben's trip certainly finished in memorable style with members of the Northern Crystal Band taking him out to a traditional meal before a night of karaoke in Sapporo's party district4BR

Tokyo return

He added: "I've been increasingly busy in a variety of musical experiences here in the UK over the last couple of years, but it is hard to find a more enriching one than this. It was amazing, and my thanks go to Hiroe and everyone for such a warm welcome."

Ben will return to Japan in 2019 where he will perform in Tokyo.