Foden's Band recently made its annual visit to Armagh in Northern Ireland for a weekend of musical activities.

As usually the band worked with a number of soloists in a masterclass tuition with eager performers given the opportunity to perform a solo, accompanied by the band.

Invaluable feedback

Foden's mentors were on hand to give invaluable feedback to encourage the player's future development and confidence as they performed admirable in front of an audience of friends, family and supporters.

The afternoon session was concluded with a number of massed items, where the soloists, teachers and supporters joined in playing in the ranks with Foden's.

Concert finale

In the evening Foden's provided an entertaining concert to a large and enthusiastic audience which featured a number of their leading soloists as well as 'Cassius: The Rumble in the Jungle' from their 2024 Brass in Concert programme.

It also included the world premiere of 'Lift High The Cross' by Jonathan Bates, commissioned by the Armagh Brass Band Summer School to celebrate the 350th anniversary of the First Presbyterian Church where the concert was held.

Memorable visit

A Foden's spokesperson told 4BR: "It was yet another memorable visit to Armagh and its widespread and inclusive brass band community. We thank Ivor Stevenson MBE and his hard working team for their hospitality on what was our 24th visit.

The Silver Jubilee visit is going to be another one to remember."