Conductor Dave Lea has told 4BR that he believes that the German brass band movement is continuing to build on strong foundations that can only bode well for the future.

Dave has gained extensive first-hand experience of its development over the past decade or more and enjoyed his latest involvement in a new ensemble entitled the Golden X Band Regensburg.

The ensemble is part of the Brass Band Regensburg organisation that has been at the forefront of British style brass banding in Bavaria.

Exciting project

Their senior ensemble claimed the National First Division title at the recent German National Championships. At the same event, Dave led Golden X Band into second place in the Second Division on their contesting debut

"It's such an exciting project and one that I'm sure will continue to build in the years to come,"he said.

"It was only in Spring 2021 when Thomas Frei and Barney Lugosi had the vision to add a new band to the Regensburg organisation.

The name comes from players wishing to cross over from symphonic, wind and orchestral music making to brass bands and wish to enjoy the experience."

Dave revealed that the next step was to appoint a band manager with the experienced Uli Ruckdaschel, a founding member of Brass Band Regensburg taking on the lead role.

"That was the key — and I was delighted that they then asked me to become involved. The progress made by everyone associated with Brass Band Regensburg is such an inspiration."

It's such an exciting project and one that I'm sure will continue to build in the years to comeDave Lea

Future

Golden X Band soon attracted 28 musicians — some travelling over 400km to a rehearsal, whilst others closer to its home, popped on their bikes. After the first weekend of intense rehearsals, Dave knew that the band had a future.

"That was obvious. The enthusiasm and dedication shown was amazing. Although Covid put pay to an immediate contest appearance, the postponement of the National Championships gave us extra time.

They made a huge effort and we were soon ready, although on the day of the contest our flugel player tested positive for Covid. That though was overcome with the generous help of one of the Regensburg players and we took to the stage."

Build

He concluded: "The band played wonderfully well and was delighted with the result.

It took 18 months but it has been so well worth it. Now they can build on this, which is not only great news for them, but for the strength of German banding."