Milton Keynes Brass made their mark at the Bolsover Festival of Brass

Milton Keynes Brass made their mark at the Bolsover Festival of Brass during Matthew Brown's inaugural competition as the band's musical director. The ensemble's performance was centred around the theme of dance, captivating the audience with their musical finesse.

Under the guidance of Matthew Brown, the band's journey began with Peter Corrigan's delightful narration, weaving a narrative between the pieces. The audience was treated to a diverse repertoire, starting with the exhilarating "In the Hall of The Mountain King." This was followed by the rustic charm of "Barn Dance" and the heartfelt "Cowboy Hymn."

Principal cornet player Matt Ball showcased his exceptional talent in a dazzling rendition of "El Cumbanchero." The band's versatility continued with the soulful "Chiquilin de Bachin" before culminating in a powerful performance of "War Dance of the Red Cossacks" as a symbol of solidarity with their native Ukraine.

Despite the limited preparation time, Milton Keynes Brass delivered a commendable performance, securing a well-deserved 7th place against strong competition from the North. The Bolsover Festival of Brass marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter under Matthew Brown's leadership.