Cory MD Philip Harper recently made a long haul trip to Japan to lead delegates on the Ageo Band Camp in Saitama.

The three day event was organised by conductor Kazuyuki Kouno, who recently led Immortal Brass Eternally to the Word Music Contest Championship in Kerkrade, and who previously played with Cory when he was studying ay the RWCM&D in Cardiff.

Culture and tradition

The course brought together more than 60 players from different parts of Japan, as well as additional musicians from overseas.

They were subsequently divided into two ensembles — New York Band and the English Folk Song Band to enjoy intensive rehearsals alongside section work and teaching from Philip and Kazuyuki. In addition, Philip gave a lecture on brass band culture and the British brass band tradition.

On the final day, the two groups came together to form a massed band of approximately 100 players for the closing concert, where works by Philip alongside Thierry Deleruyelle, Esme Harper, Edward Elgar, Philip Sparke, John Williams, Goff Richards and Vaughan Williams were performed.

Fantastic opportunity

Speaking to 4BR, Kazuyuki said: "The camp has been running as part of the ongoing development of British-style brass band activity in Japan. It provides players with the fantastic opportunity to work with a brilliant conductor and to explore both the repertoire and traditions of the brass band movement.

Philip was inspirational. He has been involved in brass band education in Japan since 2010, and the 2026 camp continued this long-standing educational relationship. It was wonderful to have him with us."