4BR Podcast Interview: Mike Lovatt

4BR Editor Iwan Fox catches up with the trumpet star to find out more about his latest Brass Pack release inspired by the great Billy May.

The trumpet player led his Brass Pack in Birmingham

Monday, 26 May 2025

For the latest 4BR Podcast Interview where we talk to leading musicians and personalities with a link to the brass band world, 4BR Editor Iwan Fox is joined by Mike Lovatt, trumpet player extraordinaire.

To enjoy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NaRduAJbEdU

Brass Pack

He is the driving force behind his 'Brass Pack' — a unique 25-piece brass orchestra (with a few additions) that has been wowing audiences with its performances.

Mike has just released 'Brass Pack — Live!', recorded at Birmingham Town Hall in August last year with music inspired by his love of the legendary trumpet player/arranger Billy May and his iconic 1958 'Big Phat Brass' album.

Grand piano

He talks to us about Billy May, the music and the man, to find out more about a release that pays homage to a remarkable musician and his association with Frank Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald as well as Duke Ellington, Harold Arlen and more — including why he has a 1927 Steinway grand piano in his front room...

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