British Open champion Foden's is certainly keeping busy ahead of its defence of its North West Regional Championship title in Blackpool at the end of the month.

Having already appeared at the RNCM International Brass Band Festival in Manchester they have just returned from their regular trip to Armagh — their 23rd time in fact — for a weekend of extensive musical activities.

Young performers

As well as a concert in the First Presbyterian Church, which saw Foden's perform their Brass in Concert title winning programme 'Prince Ali — From Rags to Riches' set, the band worked with a large number of young performers in a masterclasses and tuition.

Young soloists were given the opportunity to perform a solo, accompanied by the band, with Foden's principal players giving feedback as well as addressing the large audience consisting of parents, teachers and supporters.

The session was concluded with several massed items, where the soloists, teachers and supporters joined the ranks to perform with the Open champions.

Return

Speaking about the weekend, Band Manager Mark Wilkinson told 4BR: "Once again we enjoyed the warmest and friendliest of welcomes from friends old and new. We are always delighted to make the trip to Armagh and the music making is inspirational in more ways than one.

We also get very well fed too, so we have to get into training before we head to Blackpool for the defence of our Area title!"