For
more than twenty years, Harmony Brass have been the South East's premier
ten piece brass ensemble. They have established an enviable reputation
among the cognoscenti for both the virtuosic quality of their playing
and their light-hearted approach to music making.
 |
Audiences
invariably find Harmony Brass's enthusiasm infectious and the
symptoms are broad grins and sudden outbursts of song all the
way home.
The
ensemble was conceived by a group of visionaries way back in 1984
over a jug of exceedingly mellow ale.
|
Inevitably,
with the passing of two decades, membership has changed, but four remain
from the original line-up, (including the bands charismatic leader,
Brian Ford). Enthusiasm, commitment and the highest artistic standards
have always been the legacy passed to new recruits.
These
guys and gals are brilliant - and blowing is what they do best. Some
of them play (or have played) professionally, others teach and, alongside
their commitment to Harmony Brass, they all play regularly with various
other ensembles.
The
line-up comprises four cornets (or trumpets), horn, two trombones, euphonium,
tuba and drum kit. The usual attire is dinner-jackets for the lads and
black dresses for the lasses - but they are not averse to donning festive
waistcoats and red dicky bows when's the occasion calls for something
less formal.
| Their
repertoire is surprisingly eclectic. Arrangements of the classics
abound, along with original works for brass. At the lighter end
of the spectrum are dance and jazz-style numbers and novelty items.
Each member of the ensemble is an experienced soloist and so there
is plenty of scope for virtuosic display. |
 |
Harmony
Brass is the ideal ensemble to perform a concert packed with entertainment,
either inside or outside (with shelter when appropriate). Churches and
other community organisations (like village hall committees and fete
organisers) have been pleased to engage their services and , over the
years, they have helped raise many thousands of pounds for charity.
Civic entertainment departments have utilised them to provide music
for special events, shows and festivals. Often they have provided a
classy focal point for private garden parties (as many mosquitoes can
testify), grand openings and various corporate events. They have even
played for weddings on a number of occasions (but they are apt to steal
the limelight from the happy couple).
Find
out more, including fees from info@harmonybrass
© Harmony Brass 2006, all
rights reserved.