The opening musical prelude to the RNCM International Brass Band Festival this weekend will be provided by the talented players of the RNCM Euphonium & Baritone Ensemble, conducted by Steven Mead.

They will entertain the free admission audience at the Carole Nash Recital Room at 6.15pm with an eclectic programme that Steven told 4BR, "showcases their amazing talents in full".

Lasting impression

Steve revealed that the ensemble is keen to make a lasting impression, and have undertaken extra early morning as well as late evening rehearsals together.

"Their talent is matched by their sheer enthusiasm,"Steve said. "It's such a pleasure to work with students with such a passion for playing, and I'm sure they are gig to kick-tart this year's festival in memorable style. These are players with big futures ahead of them"

Programme

The programme will see the ensemble perform the 'Finale from The Gadfly' by Shostakovich, Peter Smalley's 'Ball of Fire' and 'Loch Lomond' arranged by Ken Williamson.

'Fantasy on Charge' by Benjamin Roundtree, Sean Peterson's arrangement of 'She Walked Through the Fair' will led into the rousing 'Blaze' by Jim Fieldhouse to close.