Derwent Brass continues to maintain its reputation for artistic innovation this weekend when the Derbyshire based band takes part in a performance of 'Warp & Weft: Bringing DerwentWISE to Life'.

The 90 minute production at Derby Theatre on Saturday 19th January is a collaboration between the progressive music group Sigma 7 and Music Producer John Crossley, Head of Discipline Music & Performing Arts at the University of Derby.

Future generations

It is part of a larger 5 year community project that seeks to inspire and enable care for the Lower Derwent Valley, where its landscape is valued as much for its natural and cultural heritage as for its beauty, and where local people have the knowledge and skills to look after it for future generations to enjoy.

The production journeys through time; from before cotton mills dominated the river valley and the heyday of the world's first factory system, to the decimating effect of the Great War and present day Derbyshire.

Artistic fit

Band Manager Chris Leonard told 4BR that it is an exciting collision of contemporary and brass band sounds.

"We're delighted to be a part of the DerwentWISE project," he said. "It couldn't be a better fit for the band to be involved in another collaboration which is close to us both artistically and geographically.

Rehearsals with Sigma 7 and the guys at Derby University have been fantastic and we're really looking forward to being back in Derby Theatre this weekend with another at Cromford Mills later in the year.

It's a unique work John has put together and it's great for the band to continue pushing innovative boundaries."

Exciting project

In response, Music Producer John Crossley added: "This is a really exciting project for me and I'm thoroughly enjoying working with such a fantastic group of musicians.

My father played for Grimethorpe when I was young, so I grew up surrounded by this rich sound and heritage — it's wonderful to now be part of that."

The production journeys through time; from before cotton mills dominated the river valley and the heyday of the world's first factory system, to the decimating effect of the Great War and present day Derbyshire4BR

More information:

Warp & Weft: Bringing DerwentWISE to Life is hosted by the Derbyshire Wildlife Trust and funded by Heritage Lottery Funds.

To find out more and book a ticket, go to: https:/­/­www.derbytheatre.co.uk/­warp-weft-bringing-derwentwise-life