Dank i Wel Belgie!
In October 2019, Symphonic Brass Wales travelled to Ostend, Belgium, where it performed alongside additional groups from across Europe and wider in three performances at the 5000 seat capacity Versluys Dome, as part of the 2019 International Taptoe Belgie.
On this occasion, the band featured musicians from Rhondda's Lewis Merthyr Band, the Royal British Legion (Llanelli) Corps of Drums and star Yamaha soloist Martyn Patterson, solo euphonium of the Tredegar Band.
The band enjoyed a superb visit, and were proud to represent Wales on the international stage at this leading international show alongside the Republic of Korea Air Force Band and Song Misook Dance Troupe of South Korea; Fanfare Bereden Wapens of the Netherlands; the International Massed Pipes & Drums and ITB Highland Dance Team; the Gymnastes des Pompiers and Musique des Pompiers de Paris of France; and the WIK Showkorps of Belgium
Further information and images from the visit can be found here while full information on the International Taptoe Belgie can be found at www.taptoebelgie.be
In 2020, SBW will travel to Moscow, Yalta & Kazan, Russia in May; Colorado, USA in September and Lommel, Belgium in October. Further information on all 2020 visits will be made available here soon
On this occasion, the band featured musicians from Rhondda's Lewis Merthyr Band, the Royal British Legion (Llanelli) Corps of Drums and star Yamaha soloist Martyn Patterson, solo euphonium of the Tredegar Band.
The band enjoyed a superb visit, and were proud to represent Wales on the international stage at this leading international show alongside the Republic of Korea Air Force Band and Song Misook Dance Troupe of South Korea; Fanfare Bereden Wapens of the Netherlands; the International Massed Pipes & Drums and ITB Highland Dance Team; the Gymnastes des Pompiers and Musique des Pompiers de Paris of France; and the WIK Showkorps of Belgium
Further information and images from the visit can be found here while full information on the International Taptoe Belgie can be found at www.taptoebelgie.be
In 2020, SBW will travel to Moscow, Yalta & Kazan, Russia in May; Colorado, USA in September and Lommel, Belgium in October. Further information on all 2020 visits will be made available here soon
SBW Return to Moscow & Crimea
Following our performances in Moscow in May 2017 and Krasnodar & Crimea in August 2018, an ensemble from Symphonic Brass Wales were delighted to return to both Crimea & Moscow in May 2019.
With our previous visit to Crimea following on from those by performing groups from both Italy & New Zealand in March 2018, and coinciding with performances by the New Orleans Rebirth Brass Band from the USA at the Koktebel Jazz Festival during the same period as our own visit in August 2018, our May 2019 visit coincided with an international conference of historians from Canada, Ireland and the United Kingdom at the famed Livadia Palace (site of the Yalta Conference between Churchill, Roosevelt & Stalin in 1945) and performances by international soloists of the Russian State Ballet hailing from Azerbaijan, Japan, Russia, Spain and the United States of America.
The full schedule of our visit, plus a series of images, videos and news reports can be found here
Our visits to both Moscow and Crimea were once again tremendous. We enjoyed a fantastic welcome in each of the regions and cities that we visited, and our thanks go out to all our incredible audiences, hosts and all the wonderful people we met during our visit.
We look to visiting Moscow and Crimea again soon.
Diolch yn fawr iawn / большое спасибо
With our previous visit to Crimea following on from those by performing groups from both Italy & New Zealand in March 2018, and coinciding with performances by the New Orleans Rebirth Brass Band from the USA at the Koktebel Jazz Festival during the same period as our own visit in August 2018, our May 2019 visit coincided with an international conference of historians from Canada, Ireland and the United Kingdom at the famed Livadia Palace (site of the Yalta Conference between Churchill, Roosevelt & Stalin in 1945) and performances by international soloists of the Russian State Ballet hailing from Azerbaijan, Japan, Russia, Spain and the United States of America.
The full schedule of our visit, plus a series of images, videos and news reports can be found here
Our visits to both Moscow and Crimea were once again tremendous. We enjoyed a fantastic welcome in each of the regions and cities that we visited, and our thanks go out to all our incredible audiences, hosts and all the wonderful people we met during our visit.
We look to visiting Moscow and Crimea again soon.
Diolch yn fawr iawn / большое спасибо
Diolch yn fawr iawn - большое спасибо Moscow, Krasnodar & Crimea
Our 10 piece symphonic brass ensemble recently enjoyed a truly incredible 12 day visit to Moscow, Krasnodar and the Crimean Peninsula. The group received an incredibly warm welcome from our hosts in all three regions and performed in and visited some truly magnificent iconic locations, including the Vorontsov Palace, Livadia Palace, St Vladimir's Cathedral and more. For a detailed account of our visit, plus numerous images from our trip, visit the On Tour section of our website here
Diolch yn fawr iawn - большое спасибо to all our incredible hosts and the wonderful people we met during our visit. We hope to return once again sometime soon
Diolch yn fawr iawn - большое спасибо to all our incredible hosts and the wonderful people we met during our visit. We hope to return once again sometime soon
Press Statement
In response to media enquiries received, the following statement was issued on our inaugural concert tour to Russia and Crimea in August 2018:
Press Statement
Saturday September 1st 2018
Full details of Symphonic Brass Wales' recent tour to Moscow, Krasnodar and Crimea, including full itinerary, commentary and a series of images from the visit, can be found at www.symphonicbrasswales.com/on-tour
Our ensemble's visit follows on from a number of previous tours to the region by additional international performing groups this year, which have included groups from Italy and New Zealand in March, and indeed the famed New Orleans style "Rebirth Brass Band" from the USA were also performing at a jazz festival in Koktebel, Crimea during the same period as our own visit.
Our group enjoyed an excellent visit to the region. The climate and atmosphere were not what as we had anticipated either might be, and whereas we may have perhaps envisaged a considerable police or military presence, we saw neither. In actual fact, Crimea appeared a busy summer tourist region.
For us, it was a true joy to experience the rich culture and history of the area, and to meet the local people there, many of whom we will be maintaining contact and ongoing friendships with.
Following our return to the U.K. we have received a number of messages, both positive and negative. The negative have been mainly from Ukrainian journalists and bloggers, while the positive have included messages of thanks from the Director of the State Palace and Department of Culture of Crimea, the Director of the Archaeological Museum and UNESCO World Heritage site at Chersonese, the Tavrida Youth Forum, and some of the young people we met during our travels. All of these individuals and institutions were incredibly grateful for our visit.
"Dear Symphonic Brass Wales, I sincerely thank you for your brave, and for us important deed, and for your art! [Your] performance in the Ancient Theater of Chersonese - the oldest theatre in Russia - was an unforgettable bright present for the guests of our museum and the residents of the city of Sevastopol. The participants of this concert will never forget your performance and improvisation with the children's orchestra from St Petersburg in the Byzantine courtyard of our museum. It was very touching and magical! Art is above politics! Art always unites us! We will be glad to see your musicians in our museum again! - Svetlana Melnikova, Director, Chersonese Museum
The history of Crimea is a complex one. It was formally part of Russia from 1783, before being transferred to the UkrSSR in 1954 by Nikita Kruschev, though at the time they were of course one Soviet Union. The population of Crimea was c.75% ethnically Russian at that time and remains over 60% Russian, compared to less than 20% Ukrainian, today. It's not for us to comment on the politics however. We went to Crimea to give a series of concerts for all the people of the region, and while there we hoped to also see with our own eyes the current situation, and to experience a part of the world we had not visited previously.
We thoroughly enjoyed sharing our music and culture with the people of Crimea, and also learning of the longstanding British connections there. We firmly hope that a solution to the political situation in Crimea can be found as, for all Moscow and Kiev's wrangling over the region, the people there do not deserve to be cut off from international contact and culture, and surely it is the people of the region who, in all of this, should be the most important consideration.
Note
Despite the suppositions of a number of the tour's critics, this visit was entirely self-funded. Each musician covered their own flight costs, while local transportation and accommodation were provided in kind by local hoteliers. No individual or organisation involved in the tour received any form of financial remuneration and all concert performances were provided free of charge.
The Daily Mail article on the tour, to which the above press release is a response, can be found here
Full details of the visit, including images, videos, commentary and letters of thanks from individuals and institutions in Crimea can be found here
Press Statement
Saturday September 1st 2018
Full details of Symphonic Brass Wales' recent tour to Moscow, Krasnodar and Crimea, including full itinerary, commentary and a series of images from the visit, can be found at www.symphonicbrasswales.com/on-tour
Our ensemble's visit follows on from a number of previous tours to the region by additional international performing groups this year, which have included groups from Italy and New Zealand in March, and indeed the famed New Orleans style "Rebirth Brass Band" from the USA were also performing at a jazz festival in Koktebel, Crimea during the same period as our own visit.
Our group enjoyed an excellent visit to the region. The climate and atmosphere were not what as we had anticipated either might be, and whereas we may have perhaps envisaged a considerable police or military presence, we saw neither. In actual fact, Crimea appeared a busy summer tourist region.
For us, it was a true joy to experience the rich culture and history of the area, and to meet the local people there, many of whom we will be maintaining contact and ongoing friendships with.
Following our return to the U.K. we have received a number of messages, both positive and negative. The negative have been mainly from Ukrainian journalists and bloggers, while the positive have included messages of thanks from the Director of the State Palace and Department of Culture of Crimea, the Director of the Archaeological Museum and UNESCO World Heritage site at Chersonese, the Tavrida Youth Forum, and some of the young people we met during our travels. All of these individuals and institutions were incredibly grateful for our visit.
"Dear Symphonic Brass Wales, I sincerely thank you for your brave, and for us important deed, and for your art! [Your] performance in the Ancient Theater of Chersonese - the oldest theatre in Russia - was an unforgettable bright present for the guests of our museum and the residents of the city of Sevastopol. The participants of this concert will never forget your performance and improvisation with the children's orchestra from St Petersburg in the Byzantine courtyard of our museum. It was very touching and magical! Art is above politics! Art always unites us! We will be glad to see your musicians in our museum again! - Svetlana Melnikova, Director, Chersonese Museum
The history of Crimea is a complex one. It was formally part of Russia from 1783, before being transferred to the UkrSSR in 1954 by Nikita Kruschev, though at the time they were of course one Soviet Union. The population of Crimea was c.75% ethnically Russian at that time and remains over 60% Russian, compared to less than 20% Ukrainian, today. It's not for us to comment on the politics however. We went to Crimea to give a series of concerts for all the people of the region, and while there we hoped to also see with our own eyes the current situation, and to experience a part of the world we had not visited previously.
We thoroughly enjoyed sharing our music and culture with the people of Crimea, and also learning of the longstanding British connections there. We firmly hope that a solution to the political situation in Crimea can be found as, for all Moscow and Kiev's wrangling over the region, the people there do not deserve to be cut off from international contact and culture, and surely it is the people of the region who, in all of this, should be the most important consideration.
Note
Despite the suppositions of a number of the tour's critics, this visit was entirely self-funded. Each musician covered their own flight costs, while local transportation and accommodation were provided in kind by local hoteliers. No individual or organisation involved in the tour received any form of financial remuneration and all concert performances were provided free of charge.
The Daily Mail article on the tour, to which the above press release is a response, can be found here
Full details of the visit, including images, videos, commentary and letters of thanks from individuals and institutions in Crimea can be found here
SBW to return to Russia
Following our performance at the prestigious Victory Day celebrations in Moscow, Russia in May 2017, Symphonic Brass Wales has now been invited to perform in Krasnodar and the Black Sea Peninsula in August 2018.
The ensemble will perform in a series of concerts across the peninsula, at Maykop, Sevastopol, Simferopol, Yalta, Feodosia, Kerch, Alushta and at the iconic Vorontsov Palace.
Further information on the visit can be found here
The ensemble will perform in a series of concerts across the peninsula, at Maykop, Sevastopol, Simferopol, Yalta, Feodosia, Kerch, Alushta and at the iconic Vorontsov Palace.
Further information on the visit can be found here
Processions
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On Sunday June 10th, Symphonic Brass Wales' All-Female Band featured in "Processions", one of the largest participatory artworks ever created. Produced by Artichoke and commissioned by 14-18 NOW (the UK’s arts programme for the First World War centenary) Processions commemorated 100 years since the first women in the UK won the vote.
On Sunday 10th June 2018, thousands of women and girls formed four epic processions in the four political capitals of the UK – Belfast, Cardiff, Edinburgh and London. Given green, white or violet to wear, the colours of the suffrage movement whose initials stood for “Give Women Votes”, they together created waves of colour as they celebrated the centenary of women’s suffrage.
Following the success of the all-female band Symphonic Brass Wales brought together for the Womens Rugby Six Nations International matches in 2016, our all-female band performed together with musicians of the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama for Processions at Cardiff Castle as the procession passed by. The event was covered live on BBC television and beforehand with pieces on S4C and BBC Wales.
Processions was a living portrait of women and girls in the 21st century. Capturing the spirit of the moment, it commemorated the past, celebrated the present and looked to the future in a joyful, inclusive celebration that will be remembered for many years to come.
For further information on the event, visit www.processions.co.uk
On Sunday 10th June 2018, thousands of women and girls formed four epic processions in the four political capitals of the UK – Belfast, Cardiff, Edinburgh and London. Given green, white or violet to wear, the colours of the suffrage movement whose initials stood for “Give Women Votes”, they together created waves of colour as they celebrated the centenary of women’s suffrage.
Following the success of the all-female band Symphonic Brass Wales brought together for the Womens Rugby Six Nations International matches in 2016, our all-female band performed together with musicians of the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama for Processions at Cardiff Castle as the procession passed by. The event was covered live on BBC television and beforehand with pieces on S4C and BBC Wales.
Processions was a living portrait of women and girls in the 21st century. Capturing the spirit of the moment, it commemorated the past, celebrated the present and looked to the future in a joyful, inclusive celebration that will be remembered for many years to come.
For further information on the event, visit www.processions.co.uk
SBW to visit Russia
Symphonic Brass Wales have been invited to perform at the prestigious Victory Day celebrations in Moscow, Russia. One of the most important Russian national holidays, the Victory Day celebrations are held across Russia each year on May 9th.
SBW will visit the Russian capital from the 7th to 13th of May, participating in the celebrations by marching in "The Immortal Regiment" Parade and giving a series of concerts in the city's parks and concert halls.
SBW will be the first foreign musical group ever to perform in "The Immortal Regiment" Parade, where each year thousands of descendants of Second World War soldiers march through Moscow's main streets, including the iconic Red Square, bearing photographs of their ancestors.
Further information on the visit, including images and footage of the parade, can be found in the On Tour section of the website here
SBW will visit the Russian capital from the 7th to 13th of May, participating in the celebrations by marching in "The Immortal Regiment" Parade and giving a series of concerts in the city's parks and concert halls.
SBW will be the first foreign musical group ever to perform in "The Immortal Regiment" Parade, where each year thousands of descendants of Second World War soldiers march through Moscow's main streets, including the iconic Red Square, bearing photographs of their ancestors.
Further information on the visit, including images and footage of the parade, can be found in the On Tour section of the website here
SBW form Wales' first All-Female Band for Six Nations Women's Rugby
Symphonic Brass Wales are delighted to be performing for the 2017 Six Nations Championships, supporting both the Wales v England and Wales v Ireland women's international rugby matches at Cardiff Arms Park, on Saturday February 11th and Saturday March 11th respectively.
For the matches, SBW have formed Wales' first all-female Symphonic Brass Wales Band, drawn from across the nation and beyond! The first match took place, together with 100 voice all-female choir, under the baton of WRU Director of Music Dr Haydn James and SBW Director of Music Craig Roberts.
The performance of the national anthem can be viewed, courtesy of BBC Scrum V Live at https://twitter.com/bbcscrumv/status/830379009317883908
Video of the rehearsal and pre-match performance is available on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h9CKW5MFD_0&sns=em
For the matches, SBW have formed Wales' first all-female Symphonic Brass Wales Band, drawn from across the nation and beyond! The first match took place, together with 100 voice all-female choir, under the baton of WRU Director of Music Dr Haydn James and SBW Director of Music Craig Roberts.
The performance of the national anthem can be viewed, courtesy of BBC Scrum V Live at https://twitter.com/bbcscrumv/status/830379009317883908
Video of the rehearsal and pre-match performance is available on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h9CKW5MFD_0&sns=em
SBW feature in World Golden Oldies Rugby Festival Opening Ceremony
August saw the 21st World Golden Oldies Rugby Festival head to the heart of rugby – Cardiff, Wales, a city steeped in rugby and rugby traditions, and the focal point for the world renowned Wales Rugby team. World Golden Oldies Rugby Festivals have previously been staged in England, Scotland, Ireland, France, South Africa, Canada, the USA, Australia, New Zealand, Japan and Argentina but, to date, never in Wales.
This summer however teams, players, wives, partners, supporters and officials were finally be able to enjoy the renowned Welsh hospitality, soak up the incredible rugby atmosphere, visit Wales' wonderful pubs and restaurants, and enjoy the many attractions the Welsh capital had to offer. Symphonic Brass Wales played a major part in the festivities.
The first Golden Oldies World Rugby Festival was held in Auckland in 1979. Held roughly every two years since, in Rugby destinations around the World, the Golden Oldies Rugby movement keeps growing based on the fundamental ethos of Fun, Friendship and Fraternity. In 2016 the organisation celebrated the 21st World Festival in style at the heart of world rugby, Cardiff – over 100 teams from 18 Countries entered for the celebrations!
On Sunday August 21st, the festival Opening Ceremony took place at the Principality Stadium where Symphonic Brass Wales and Pendyrus Male Choir performed under the batons of esteemed WRU Director of Music Dr. Haydn James and SBW MD Craig Roberts. The band were delighted to once again appear at the Stadium and work with Dr James again, and to welcome the participants from across the globe to Cardiff and Wales.
A news feature on the Festival can be found at the Wales Online website here. For full information on the Festival, visit www.europeangoldenoldiesrugby.com/2016-golden-oldies-world-rugby-festival A series of images from the event can be found below
This summer however teams, players, wives, partners, supporters and officials were finally be able to enjoy the renowned Welsh hospitality, soak up the incredible rugby atmosphere, visit Wales' wonderful pubs and restaurants, and enjoy the many attractions the Welsh capital had to offer. Symphonic Brass Wales played a major part in the festivities.
The first Golden Oldies World Rugby Festival was held in Auckland in 1979. Held roughly every two years since, in Rugby destinations around the World, the Golden Oldies Rugby movement keeps growing based on the fundamental ethos of Fun, Friendship and Fraternity. In 2016 the organisation celebrated the 21st World Festival in style at the heart of world rugby, Cardiff – over 100 teams from 18 Countries entered for the celebrations!
On Sunday August 21st, the festival Opening Ceremony took place at the Principality Stadium where Symphonic Brass Wales and Pendyrus Male Choir performed under the batons of esteemed WRU Director of Music Dr. Haydn James and SBW MD Craig Roberts. The band were delighted to once again appear at the Stadium and work with Dr James again, and to welcome the participants from across the globe to Cardiff and Wales.
A news feature on the Festival can be found at the Wales Online website here. For full information on the Festival, visit www.europeangoldenoldiesrugby.com/2016-golden-oldies-world-rugby-festival A series of images from the event can be found below
Images from the World Golden Oldies Rugby Festival
Opening Ceremony
Principality Stadium, Cardiff
Judgement Day for Symphonic Brass Wales
Symphonic Brass Wales recently enjoyed another fantastic appearance at the national rugby stadium, Cardiff's Principality Stadium, performing for 68 262 people and nationwide television audience at Judgement Day IV.
The band appeared together with the Blues, Dragons, Scarlets & Ospreys choirs, performing under the batons of SBW Musical Director Craig Roberts and WRU Director of Music Dr Haydn James. A selection of images from the performances and the day can be found below.
The band look forward to returning to the Stadium to perform for the international Golden Oldies World Rugby Festival in August.
Brass & Voices for St David's Day with Owain Arwel Hughes CBE
In February, SBW featured in concert with Owain Arwel Hughes CBE in a grand scale St David's Day celebration at the Brangwyn Hall, Swansea. A rousing evening of the great Welsh hymns and popular anthems, "Brass & Voices" featured the massed male choirs of Rhondda's Cor Meibion Pendyrus and Swansea's own Morriston Orpheus Choir plus Symphonic Brass Wales / Lewis-Merthyr Band and Côr y Cwm.
Plans to promote additional performances of the event are currently in discussion and will be posted here as and when further information is revealed. To promote a Brass & Voices event in your area, contact us here
Plans to promote additional performances of the event are currently in discussion and will be posted here as and when further information is revealed. To promote a Brass & Voices event in your area, contact us here
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Brass & Voices for St David's Day
Pres a Lleisiau ar gyfer Dydd Gŵyl Dewi Owain Arwel Hughes CBE Massed Male Choirs of Morriston Orpheus & Pendyrus Côr Meibion Unedig Orffiws Treforus a Phendyrus Symphonic Brass Wales / Lewis-Merthyr Band Pres Symffonig Cymru / Band Pres Lewis-Merthyr Côr y Cwm Saturday February 27th, 7:30pm Nos Sadwrn Chefror 27ain, 7:30yh Brangwyn Hall, Swansea Neuadd Brangwyn, Abertawe |
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Symphonic Brass Wales feature in Rugby World Cup Warm Up
On Saturday September 5, Symphonic Brass Wales once again combined together with the massed WRU choir to perform in front of a crowd of 52 981 people at Wales vs Italy in the Millennium Stadium, Cardiff, the final warm up game for the Rugby World Cup.
The band and choir performed a series of Welsh traditional and popular favourites under the combined batons of WRU Director of Music Dr Haydn James and SBW's own Craig Roberts. The band SBW again took great pride in performing the Welsh national anthem in the national stadium, ahead of the home nation's 23-19 victory.
Some images of the band in performance at the stadium can be found below, together with some additional amateur footage of the match available on YouTube, via the below links.
To engage Symphonic Brass Wales for your function, concert or event, please contact us here
The band and choir performed a series of Welsh traditional and popular favourites under the combined batons of WRU Director of Music Dr Haydn James and SBW's own Craig Roberts. The band SBW again took great pride in performing the Welsh national anthem in the national stadium, ahead of the home nation's 23-19 victory.
Some images of the band in performance at the stadium can be found below, together with some additional amateur footage of the match available on YouTube, via the below links.
To engage Symphonic Brass Wales for your function, concert or event, please contact us here
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Brass music for all occasions - book now for your function / event
Add the perfect performance touch to your corporate event, private function or concert with live brass music from Symphonic Brass Wales.
Featuring repertoire of over 100 works, traditional and modern, including light classics, popular music, movie & television themes and more, Symphonic Brass Wales can provide the ideal programme for your event, individually catered to your specific needs.
Highly experienced in corporate functions, weddings and concert work of all scales, packages range from intimate ensembles through to full brass and marching bands, available to perform in dinner jackets, all black, or traditional gold braided uniform.
Email us at [email protected] or telephone us on 07901 991 013 to discuss your requirements
Featuring repertoire of over 100 works, traditional and modern, including light classics, popular music, movie & television themes and more, Symphonic Brass Wales can provide the ideal programme for your event, individually catered to your specific needs.
Highly experienced in corporate functions, weddings and concert work of all scales, packages range from intimate ensembles through to full brass and marching bands, available to perform in dinner jackets, all black, or traditional gold braided uniform.
Email us at [email protected] or telephone us on 07901 991 013 to discuss your requirements
SBW return to Nurtingen Tattoo
Just one year on from their first visit to Baden-Wurttemberg, this past July a larger ensemble from Symphonic Brass Wales returned to Germany to participate in the 2014 annual Nurtingen Tattoo
Performing alongside our good friends of the Stadtkapelle Nurtingen, and the Stadtkapelle Brixen of Tirol, the 18th Nurtingen Tattoo took the form of a large scale concert, in the magnificent Nurtingen Stadthalle. The performance featured the three ensembles performing both individually and combined, culminating in a spectacular performance of the ever-popular Scottish melody Highland Cathedral
SBW travelled to Nurtingen on Thursday July 17 and remained in the city until Sunday July 20. The musicians in the ensemble were drawn from members of Monmouthshire's Abergavenny Borough Band, Cardiff's Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama Brass Band, and Rhondda Cynon Taf's Treherbert & District Band
Further information on the Nurtingen Tattoo can be found at the website of the Stadtkapelle Nurtingen here
Performing alongside our good friends of the Stadtkapelle Nurtingen, and the Stadtkapelle Brixen of Tirol, the 18th Nurtingen Tattoo took the form of a large scale concert, in the magnificent Nurtingen Stadthalle. The performance featured the three ensembles performing both individually and combined, culminating in a spectacular performance of the ever-popular Scottish melody Highland Cathedral
SBW travelled to Nurtingen on Thursday July 17 and remained in the city until Sunday July 20. The musicians in the ensemble were drawn from members of Monmouthshire's Abergavenny Borough Band, Cardiff's Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama Brass Band, and Rhondda Cynon Taf's Treherbert & District Band
Further information on the Nurtingen Tattoo can be found at the website of the Stadtkapelle Nurtingen here
SBW perform for First Minister of the Welsh Government
Exhibition / Diplomatic Mission: November 2013
Courtesy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine
The Ukrainian state flag was raised over the Cardiff harbor on November 13. It marked an opening of an art exhibition dedicated to the 200th anniversary of John Hughes, Welsh engineer and founder of city Donetsk. The event was organized by the Embassy of Ukraine to the United Kingdom
First Minister of the Welsh Government Carwyn Jones, Mayor of Donetsk Olexander Luk'yanchenko, Mayor of Cardiff Derek Morgan, members of the National Assembly of Wales, Ambassador of Ukraine Volodymyr Khandogiy and representatives of the Ukrainian community attended the opening of the exhibition of Ms Tetyana Ponomarenko-Laverash, honored artist of Ukraine. The exhibition "Hughesovka. The future begins in the past", will be on display until November 17 at the Norwegian Church Arts Centre
Courtesy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine
The Ukrainian state flag was raised over the Cardiff harbor on November 13. It marked an opening of an art exhibition dedicated to the 200th anniversary of John Hughes, Welsh engineer and founder of city Donetsk. The event was organized by the Embassy of Ukraine to the United Kingdom
First Minister of the Welsh Government Carwyn Jones, Mayor of Donetsk Olexander Luk'yanchenko, Mayor of Cardiff Derek Morgan, members of the National Assembly of Wales, Ambassador of Ukraine Volodymyr Khandogiy and representatives of the Ukrainian community attended the opening of the exhibition of Ms Tetyana Ponomarenko-Laverash, honored artist of Ukraine. The exhibition "Hughesovka. The future begins in the past", will be on display until November 17 at the Norwegian Church Arts Centre
During the opening ceremony, Ambassador Khandogiy emphasised that, having invested his skills and inspiration in Ukraine Mr. John Hughes proved that advanced technology can bring great improvements, modernization and development despite political boundaries. "Thus, we can say that Ukraine’s advancement on the track of the European integration in its practical dimension has started a long time ago, in particular with the help of such pioneers as John Hughes", said the Ambassador.
In turn Carwyn Jones, First Minister of the Welsh Government, underlined the importance of such cultural projects for developing bilateral regional co-operation between Ukraine and Wales.
Welcoming the VIP-guests on behalf of the Donetsk City Administration Oleksandr Lukyanchenko stated that the name of John Hughes was remembered and respected in modern Donetsk. His innovative and creative approach to business serves as an example for the people of Donetsk today. On this occasion Oleksandr Lukyanchenko invited the guests to visit Donetsk next year and to participate in the celebrations dedicated to the commemoration of John Hughes’ bicentenary.
During the event the Mayor of Donetsk presented the picture "Hughesovka" by Tetyana Ponomarenko-Laverash to the city of Cardiff as a sign of friendship. This extraordinary piece of art was created with the help of children with disabilities.
The Mayor of Donetsk Oleksandr Lukyanchenko and Ambassador Volodymyr Khandogiy also laid a wreath to the monument of John Hughes in West Norwood in London. This monument has been restored with the financial support of Ukrainian businessman Rinat Akhmetov's Foundation «Development of Ukraine». The ceremony was held with the assistance of Bob Flanagan, President of the “Friends of West Norwood Cemetery” community. Musical entertainment was provided by the Symphonic Brass Wales, featuring musicians from world number one brass band, Cory.
A photogallery of the event in Cardiff can be found here
In turn Carwyn Jones, First Minister of the Welsh Government, underlined the importance of such cultural projects for developing bilateral regional co-operation between Ukraine and Wales.
Welcoming the VIP-guests on behalf of the Donetsk City Administration Oleksandr Lukyanchenko stated that the name of John Hughes was remembered and respected in modern Donetsk. His innovative and creative approach to business serves as an example for the people of Donetsk today. On this occasion Oleksandr Lukyanchenko invited the guests to visit Donetsk next year and to participate in the celebrations dedicated to the commemoration of John Hughes’ bicentenary.
During the event the Mayor of Donetsk presented the picture "Hughesovka" by Tetyana Ponomarenko-Laverash to the city of Cardiff as a sign of friendship. This extraordinary piece of art was created with the help of children with disabilities.
The Mayor of Donetsk Oleksandr Lukyanchenko and Ambassador Volodymyr Khandogiy also laid a wreath to the monument of John Hughes in West Norwood in London. This monument has been restored with the financial support of Ukrainian businessman Rinat Akhmetov's Foundation «Development of Ukraine». The ceremony was held with the assistance of Bob Flanagan, President of the “Friends of West Norwood Cemetery” community. Musical entertainment was provided by the Symphonic Brass Wales, featuring musicians from world number one brass band, Cory.
A photogallery of the event in Cardiff can be found here
SBW features in corporate launches
This past Autumn and Spring, SBW performed for leading clients and staff of Wales' leading furniture centre, Arthur Llewellyn Jenkins.
The evening performances took place at the Llantrisant store, launching the respective Autumn and Spring collections, and also featured a professional string quartet, plus drinks and canapes.
To enquire about engaging a Symphonic Brass Wales ensemble for your corporate function, please contact us here
The evening performances took place at the Llantrisant store, launching the respective Autumn and Spring collections, and also featured a professional string quartet, plus drinks and canapes.
To enquire about engaging a Symphonic Brass Wales ensemble for your corporate function, please contact us here
SBW Play For Ukrainian President
Between 20 and 26 August Symphonic Brass Wales undertook an incredible visit to Kharkiv, Ukraine as guests of the Department of Culture of the Kharkiv Region. The ensemble visited the city as part of the 70th anniversary celebrations of the liberation of the Kharkiv in 1943
As part of the visit SBW were featured in a grand scale ceremony for then President of Ukraine Viktor Yanukovych, Veterans of the Great Patriotic War (World War II) and other VIP guests, together with bands from across the Ukraine and other nations, including Russia, Moldova and Turkey
The 24 piece band also performed in an massed open event for the general public in Freedom Square, and gave a stand alone concert performance for people of the Chervonozavodsky region
As part of the visit SBW were featured in a grand scale ceremony for then President of Ukraine Viktor Yanukovych, Veterans of the Great Patriotic War (World War II) and other VIP guests, together with bands from across the Ukraine and other nations, including Russia, Moldova and Turkey
The 24 piece band also performed in an massed open event for the general public in Freedom Square, and gave a stand alone concert performance for people of the Chervonozavodsky region
A video of Symphonic Brass Wales in performance for the people of Kharkiv can be found on youtube here
The group enjoyed a wonderful visit and look forward to returning to Kharkiv and Ukraine at some future juncture.
Further information on additional Symphonic Brass Wales touring activity can be found in the On Tour section of this site. Information on additional forthcoming SBW overseas engagements will be placed here as and when it becomes available
The group enjoyed a wonderful visit and look forward to returning to Kharkiv and Ukraine at some future juncture.
Further information on additional Symphonic Brass Wales touring activity can be found in the On Tour section of this site. Information on additional forthcoming SBW overseas engagements will be placed here as and when it becomes available
SBW to visit Ukraine
Symphonic Brass Wales has been invited to perform in the Ukraine, representing Wales and the UK at an event commemorating the 70th anniversary of the liberation of Kharkiv, the country's second largest city, between 20 and 26 August 2013.
The group will appear as guests of the Department of Culture, Kharkiv City Council of the Kharkiv Region, and appear in a parade and ancillary events alongside groups of musicians from the Ukraine and other nations.
The ensemble will be comprised of a 25 piece band, a double symphonic brass ensemble / reduced brass band with additional percussion.
Full details of the visit can be found in the On Tour section of the website here
The group will appear as guests of the Department of Culture, Kharkiv City Council of the Kharkiv Region, and appear in a parade and ancillary events alongside groups of musicians from the Ukraine and other nations.
The ensemble will be comprised of a 25 piece band, a double symphonic brass ensemble / reduced brass band with additional percussion.
Full details of the visit can be found in the On Tour section of the website here
SBW feature in Nurtingen Tattoo
In July 2013 an ensemble from Symphonic Brass Wales participated in the 2013 Nurtingen Tattoo alongside our good friends of the Stadtkapelle Nurtingen.
The 17th Nurtingen Tattoo took the form of a large scale outdoor concert, taking place in the centre of Nurtingen on Saturday 20 July. The performance featured three ensembles performing both individually and combined, and culminated in a spectacular performance of the Grand March from Verdi's epic opera Aida, together with the ever-popular Highland Cathedral.
SBW travelled to Nurtingen on Friday July 19 and remained in the city until Sunday July 21. The musicians in the ensemble were drawn from members of Rhondda Cynon Taf's Treherbert & District Band and Monmouthshire;s Abergavenny Borough Band.
Further information on the Nurtingen Tattoo can be found at the website of the Stadtkapelle Nurtingen here
The 17th Nurtingen Tattoo took the form of a large scale outdoor concert, taking place in the centre of Nurtingen on Saturday 20 July. The performance featured three ensembles performing both individually and combined, and culminated in a spectacular performance of the Grand March from Verdi's epic opera Aida, together with the ever-popular Highland Cathedral.
SBW travelled to Nurtingen on Friday July 19 and remained in the city until Sunday July 21. The musicians in the ensemble were drawn from members of Rhondda Cynon Taf's Treherbert & District Band and Monmouthshire;s Abergavenny Borough Band.
Further information on the Nurtingen Tattoo can be found at the website of the Stadtkapelle Nurtingen here
SBW Again Support Armistice Parade
Symphonic Brass Wales once again lead the annual armistice parade through Carmarthen, West Wales on Remembrance Sunday, November 11.
In addition to performing in this parade, one of the largest in the principality, individual SBW musicians also performed in a series of other remembrance events across South Wales that morning.
SBW is proud to support Remembrance Sunday and the ever vital Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal.
For further information on the Poppy Appeal, including details of how you can show your support, please visit www.poppy.org.uk
In addition to performing in this parade, one of the largest in the principality, individual SBW musicians also performed in a series of other remembrance events across South Wales that morning.
SBW is proud to support Remembrance Sunday and the ever vital Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal.
For further information on the Poppy Appeal, including details of how you can show your support, please visit www.poppy.org.uk
SBW perform for 57 000 at the Millennium Stadium, Cardiff
SBW & the WRU choir in rehearsal
On Saturday June 2 Symphonic Brass Wales combined together with the 1000 strong WRU choir, drawn from leading male choirs from across Wales, to perform in front of a crowd of 57 022 people at Wales vs The Barbarians in the Millennium Stadium, Cardiff.
The musical host performed a series of Welsh traditional and popular favourites under the baton of WRU Director of Music Dr Haydn James, and SBW took great pride in performing the national anthem at the national stadium for the national team ahead of their 30-21 victory.
Further information on the music for the event can be found at the WRU website here
The musical host performed a series of Welsh traditional and popular favourites under the baton of WRU Director of Music Dr Haydn James, and SBW took great pride in performing the national anthem at the national stadium for the national team ahead of their 30-21 victory.
Further information on the music for the event can be found at the WRU website here
Busy Summer Ahead!
Symphonic Brass Wales are all set for a busy Summer 2012 with an invitation now accepted to perform in Germany.
From 20 to 22 July SBW will travel to Nurtingen, Germany to perform alongside our good friends at the Stadtkapelle Nurtingen in the 14th annual Nurtingen Tattoo. A large scale outdoor concert, the Nurtingen Tattoo will feature three bands performing individually and combined, all culminating in a spectacular performance of Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture with fireworks.
Further information on this and other previous SBW performances can be found in the On Tour section of this site, or contact us here
From 20 to 22 July SBW will travel to Nurtingen, Germany to perform alongside our good friends at the Stadtkapelle Nurtingen in the 14th annual Nurtingen Tattoo. A large scale outdoor concert, the Nurtingen Tattoo will feature three bands performing individually and combined, all culminating in a spectacular performance of Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture with fireworks.
Further information on this and other previous SBW performances can be found in the On Tour section of this site, or contact us here
SBW to feature in Wales v the Barbarians at the Millennium Stadium!
On Saturday June 2nd Symphonic Brass Wales will take to the hallowed ground of the Millennium Stadium, Cardiff to provide the pre-match entertainment, accompanying the 1500 voice male choir under the direction of Dr Haydn James, and performing the Welsh National Anthem to start the Wales versus the Barbarians match.
SBW is delighted to be involved in the event and support the national rugby team in their Grand Slam winning year.
Tickets for the match, along with further information, are available at www.millenniumstadium.com
SBW is delighted to be involved in the event and support the national rugby team in their Grand Slam winning year.
Tickets for the match, along with further information, are available at www.millenniumstadium.com
Σας ευχαριστούμε Κρήτη
Symphonic Brass Wales would like to offer huge thanks and congratulations to all involved in the Mediterranean International Festival of Arts.
From the first ever performance of the Mozart opera Idomeneo (Re di Creta - King of Crete) upon the island on which is is set, through to the Ballet Gala at the Fortezza, Rethymno; the first ever concert in St Minas Cathedral, Heraklion; the Russian State Ballet company's production of Adolphe Adam's Le Corsaire; the Crete International Tattoo; and the series of concerts with musical theatre star Peter Karrie, accompanied by Symphonic Brass Wales and Just Harry, the Festival was a tremendous success.
Appearing in the Tattoo alongside leading performers from Canada (Paris Port Dover Pipe Band, Kitchener Fire Department Pipes & Drums), Estonia (world gymnastic club champions Club Piruett), Greece (Heraklion Philharmonic Orchestra), Italy (Sbandieratori Gubbio & Sansepulcro), Russia (Moscow College Wind Band) and Scotland (Ailsa Craig Highland Dancers, Massed Pipes & Drums) in shows in Heraklion, Agios Nikolaos & Rethymno was a fantastic experience; while the performances with Peter Karrie and Just Harrie at the magnificent Rethymno Fortezza and in Lion's Square, Heraklion were superb.
SBW would like to thank Crete and the Cretan people for the generosity and hospitality they showed to ourselves and all visiting perfomers, and also the Periphery of the Governor of Crete, the Municipalities of Heraklion, Rethymno, Agios Nikolaos and Hersonissos, and all the Festival sponsors, particularly Tez Tour, for their support.
Our best wishes go to all those who were involved, and we wish the festival, and the Cretan people, the very best of luck for the future.
For further information on the Mediterranean International Festival of Arts visit www.festarts.org
From the first ever performance of the Mozart opera Idomeneo (Re di Creta - King of Crete) upon the island on which is is set, through to the Ballet Gala at the Fortezza, Rethymno; the first ever concert in St Minas Cathedral, Heraklion; the Russian State Ballet company's production of Adolphe Adam's Le Corsaire; the Crete International Tattoo; and the series of concerts with musical theatre star Peter Karrie, accompanied by Symphonic Brass Wales and Just Harry, the Festival was a tremendous success.
Appearing in the Tattoo alongside leading performers from Canada (Paris Port Dover Pipe Band, Kitchener Fire Department Pipes & Drums), Estonia (world gymnastic club champions Club Piruett), Greece (Heraklion Philharmonic Orchestra), Italy (Sbandieratori Gubbio & Sansepulcro), Russia (Moscow College Wind Band) and Scotland (Ailsa Craig Highland Dancers, Massed Pipes & Drums) in shows in Heraklion, Agios Nikolaos & Rethymno was a fantastic experience; while the performances with Peter Karrie and Just Harrie at the magnificent Rethymno Fortezza and in Lion's Square, Heraklion were superb.
SBW would like to thank Crete and the Cretan people for the generosity and hospitality they showed to ourselves and all visiting perfomers, and also the Periphery of the Governor of Crete, the Municipalities of Heraklion, Rethymno, Agios Nikolaos and Hersonissos, and all the Festival sponsors, particularly Tez Tour, for their support.
Our best wishes go to all those who were involved, and we wish the festival, and the Cretan people, the very best of luck for the future.
For further information on the Mediterranean International Festival of Arts visit www.festarts.org
SBW to feature in International Mediterranean Festival of Arts
Symphonic Brass Wales will return to the Greek island of Crete in September / October of this year, as featured artists of the Mediterranean International Festival of Arts
The Festival will be held between September 25 and October 5 across the whole of Crete, and will feature a host of high profile international artists from a wide variety of different genres throughout a ten day long series of events.
Particular highlights will include the second Crete International Tattoo, a large-scale musical, dance and gymnastic performance, which will feature performers from across the globe - represented nations for 2011 include Greece, the United Kingdom (England, Scotland & Wales), Canada, Estonia, Italy, New Zealand and Russia.
Other highlights include a very special staging of Mozart's 'Idomeneo', Re di Creta (King of Crete), the first ever performance of the masterful opera upon the island on which it is set. The opera will be staged in the Cretan capital of Heraklion, and feature artists from Austria, Germany, the Netherlands, Russia, the United Kingdom and Greece. Other featured events include a ballet gala performance, featuring leading artists from the renowned Bolshoi Theatre Ballet and the Royal Ballet, Covent Garden, plus a recital by leading medieval, renaissance & baroque artist Jordi Savall, performances by the Russian State National Ballet, and a host of other performances by leading artists from across a wide range of genres.
In addition to featuring in the Crete International Tattoo, Symphonic Brass Wales will this year also be undertaking a series of solo concert performances with Welsh musical theatre legend Peter Karrie. The performances will take place in a variety of major cities which include Agios Nikolaos, Rethymnon and the capital city Heraklion.
The full itinerary for SBW's visit is now available here, while further detailed information on and from the Festival will be placed here as and when it becomes available. Full information on the International Mediterranean Festival of Arts itself can be found at the Militfest website at www.militfest.com/crete_2011 and the Mediterranean International Festival of Arts' own website www.festarts.org
A general video about Crete can be found below:
The Festival will be held between September 25 and October 5 across the whole of Crete, and will feature a host of high profile international artists from a wide variety of different genres throughout a ten day long series of events.
Particular highlights will include the second Crete International Tattoo, a large-scale musical, dance and gymnastic performance, which will feature performers from across the globe - represented nations for 2011 include Greece, the United Kingdom (England, Scotland & Wales), Canada, Estonia, Italy, New Zealand and Russia.
Other highlights include a very special staging of Mozart's 'Idomeneo', Re di Creta (King of Crete), the first ever performance of the masterful opera upon the island on which it is set. The opera will be staged in the Cretan capital of Heraklion, and feature artists from Austria, Germany, the Netherlands, Russia, the United Kingdom and Greece. Other featured events include a ballet gala performance, featuring leading artists from the renowned Bolshoi Theatre Ballet and the Royal Ballet, Covent Garden, plus a recital by leading medieval, renaissance & baroque artist Jordi Savall, performances by the Russian State National Ballet, and a host of other performances by leading artists from across a wide range of genres.
In addition to featuring in the Crete International Tattoo, Symphonic Brass Wales will this year also be undertaking a series of solo concert performances with Welsh musical theatre legend Peter Karrie. The performances will take place in a variety of major cities which include Agios Nikolaos, Rethymnon and the capital city Heraklion.
The full itinerary for SBW's visit is now available here, while further detailed information on and from the Festival will be placed here as and when it becomes available. Full information on the International Mediterranean Festival of Arts itself can be found at the Militfest website at www.militfest.com/crete_2011 and the Mediterranean International Festival of Arts' own website www.festarts.org
A general video about Crete can be found below:
Nadolig Llawen / Merry Christmas
Nadolig Llawen / Merry Christmas to all friends and supporters of Symphonic Brass Wales
SBW rounded off a full and incredibly fulfilling year with a series of charitable Christmas appearances, which will culminate in a day long series of performances across Croesyceiliog, Carmarthen, in aid of the local children's hospice Ty Cymorth
Further information on Ty Cymorth can be found at their own website www.tycymorth.org.uk
SBW rounded off a full and incredibly fulfilling year with a series of charitable Christmas appearances, which will culminate in a day long series of performances across Croesyceiliog, Carmarthen, in aid of the local children's hospice Ty Cymorth
Further information on Ty Cymorth can be found at their own website www.tycymorth.org.uk
Symphonic Brass Wales again lead Remembrance Parade
Symphonic Brass Wales once again lead the annual armistice parade through Carmarthen, West Wales on Remembrance Sunday, November 14.
In addition to performing in this parade, one of the largest in the principality, individual SBW musicians also performed in a series of other remembrance events across South Wales that morning.
SBW is proud to support Remembrance Sunday and the ever vital Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal.
For further information on the Poppy Appeal, including details of how you can show your support, please visit www.poppy.org.uk
In addition to performing in this parade, one of the largest in the principality, individual SBW musicians also performed in a series of other remembrance events across South Wales that morning.
SBW is proud to support Remembrance Sunday and the ever vital Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal.
For further information on the Poppy Appeal, including details of how you can show your support, please visit www.poppy.org.uk
Swan Lake On Ice returns to Cardiff
The world’s premiere theatrical ice skating company, the Imperial ice Stars, return to the UK this autumn with a dynamic new interpretation of their award-winning masterpiece Swan Lake on Ice, part of a two year, 22-country world tour.
Swan Lake on Ice began its UK tour on Tuesday 5 October, and will appear in Wales between October 26 to November 6 at the Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff.
This production of Swan Lake features exhilarating new choreography and some of the world’s most stylish dancing on ice from Artistic Director Tony Mercer, widely regarded as the world’s leading creator of theatre on ice, as well as new effects and costumes. The prerecorded score is, as always, masterfully prepared by composer / arranger Tim A. Duncan, and features musicians from Symphonic Brass Wales.
The Imperial Ice Stars have received standing ovations from UK audiences on each of their previous three tours (Sleeping Beauty on Ice 2004, Swan Lake on Ice 2006, Cinderella on Ice 2008/09) and earned outstanding reviews with their adrenaline-infused performances. The 26 World, European and National Championship Imperial Ice skaters, who between them hold more than 250 competition medals, take contemporary ice dance to a new level with their daring and graceful feats – some of which are so complex they haven’t yet been named – and all in the intimate setting of a frozen theatre stage.
The Imperial Ice Stars have performed to almost three million people across five continents, at some of the world’s most prestigious venues – London’s Royal Albert Hall and Sadler’s Wells, Singapore’s Esplanade Theatre, Montreal’s Place des Arts and Cape Town’s Artscape, winning five-star praise from audiences and critics alike.Their world tours have earned them an unrivalled reputation for pushing the boundaries in the genre of ice dance with their skill and athleticism on the ice, their creative and powerful story-telling, their sumptuous sets, spectacular special effects and opulent costumes.
Swan Lake on Ice is performed against lavish backdrops and scenery created by one of Australasia’s leading scenic designers, Eamon D’Arcy. The costuming has also been refined for this new production, with some dazzling and sophisticated designs from renowned costumier Albina Gabueva of Moscow’s Stanislavsky Theatre, and made by the famous Bolshoi Ballet’s costume cutters. Together with Tchaikovsky’s uplifting music, this innovative portrayal of the classic love story literally takes your breath away.
Further information on the show and the Ice Stars themselves can be found at their own site www.imperialicestars.com while a promotional video for Swan Lake On Ice, in which Symphonic Brass Wales musicians can be heard, can be found below:
Swan Lake on Ice began its UK tour on Tuesday 5 October, and will appear in Wales between October 26 to November 6 at the Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff.
This production of Swan Lake features exhilarating new choreography and some of the world’s most stylish dancing on ice from Artistic Director Tony Mercer, widely regarded as the world’s leading creator of theatre on ice, as well as new effects and costumes. The prerecorded score is, as always, masterfully prepared by composer / arranger Tim A. Duncan, and features musicians from Symphonic Brass Wales.
The Imperial Ice Stars have received standing ovations from UK audiences on each of their previous three tours (Sleeping Beauty on Ice 2004, Swan Lake on Ice 2006, Cinderella on Ice 2008/09) and earned outstanding reviews with their adrenaline-infused performances. The 26 World, European and National Championship Imperial Ice skaters, who between them hold more than 250 competition medals, take contemporary ice dance to a new level with their daring and graceful feats – some of which are so complex they haven’t yet been named – and all in the intimate setting of a frozen theatre stage.
The Imperial Ice Stars have performed to almost three million people across five continents, at some of the world’s most prestigious venues – London’s Royal Albert Hall and Sadler’s Wells, Singapore’s Esplanade Theatre, Montreal’s Place des Arts and Cape Town’s Artscape, winning five-star praise from audiences and critics alike.Their world tours have earned them an unrivalled reputation for pushing the boundaries in the genre of ice dance with their skill and athleticism on the ice, their creative and powerful story-telling, their sumptuous sets, spectacular special effects and opulent costumes.
Swan Lake on Ice is performed against lavish backdrops and scenery created by one of Australasia’s leading scenic designers, Eamon D’Arcy. The costuming has also been refined for this new production, with some dazzling and sophisticated designs from renowned costumier Albina Gabueva of Moscow’s Stanislavsky Theatre, and made by the famous Bolshoi Ballet’s costume cutters. Together with Tchaikovsky’s uplifting music, this innovative portrayal of the classic love story literally takes your breath away.
Further information on the show and the Ice Stars themselves can be found at their own site www.imperialicestars.com while a promotional video for Swan Lake On Ice, in which Symphonic Brass Wales musicians can be heard, can be found below:
Danke Schön Hamburg a Diolch Yn Fawr Wales Tartan!
Vielen Dank a Diolch yn fawr to all at the Hamburg Polizei Show and the Wales Tartan Centre for making Symphonic Brass Wales' recent visit to Germany such an absolute pleasure.
The 35 piece ensemble looked splendid in their St David's Tartan cilts generously provided by the Wales Tartan Centre and plaudits on the uniform were received from event producers from Germany, the Netherlands, Russia and Canada, as well as the host of performers and audience members who interacted with the group throughout the run of the Polizei Show.
The Hamburg Polizei were incredible hosts throughout the group's stay, and particular thanks to Polizeipräsident Werner Jantosch, Vorsitzende des Polizeivereins Dirk Reimers and show producers Michael Krohn & Herbert Everding.
Symphonic Brass Wales would also like to offer its thanks to Major Denis Burton of the Band of the Royal Welsh for his incredible leadership throughout the group's stay in Germany. The group looks forward to returning to Germany again sometime soon.
Further information on the Polizei Show can be found at www.polizeishow-hamburg.de while information on the Wales Tartan Centre, the St David's Tartan cilts and full range of other products can be found at www.welsh-tartan.com
The 35 piece ensemble looked splendid in their St David's Tartan cilts generously provided by the Wales Tartan Centre and plaudits on the uniform were received from event producers from Germany, the Netherlands, Russia and Canada, as well as the host of performers and audience members who interacted with the group throughout the run of the Polizei Show.
The Hamburg Polizei were incredible hosts throughout the group's stay, and particular thanks to Polizeipräsident Werner Jantosch, Vorsitzende des Polizeivereins Dirk Reimers and show producers Michael Krohn & Herbert Everding.
Symphonic Brass Wales would also like to offer its thanks to Major Denis Burton of the Band of the Royal Welsh for his incredible leadership throughout the group's stay in Germany. The group looks forward to returning to Germany again sometime soon.
Further information on the Polizei Show can be found at www.polizeishow-hamburg.de while information on the Wales Tartan Centre, the St David's Tartan cilts and full range of other products can be found at www.welsh-tartan.com
Symphonic Brass Wales to lead Remembrance Sunday Parade
Symphonic Brass Wales will lead the annual armistice parade through Carmarthen, West Wales on Sunday November 14. The parade, which is one of the largest in the principality, will leave from the Guildhall Square and be led by SBW through Carmarthen to the main church service.
SBW is proud to support this important annual event and the vital Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal
For further information on the RBL Poppy Appeal please visit www.poppy.org.uk
SBW is proud to support this important annual event and the vital Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal
For further information on the RBL Poppy Appeal please visit www.poppy.org.uk
SBW to wear the Cilt!
Thanks to the generous support of the Wales Tartan Centres, Symphonic Brass Wales will appear, for the first time, in full national attire for their forthcoming visit to Hamburg and the world famous Hamburg Polizei Show.
Sporting full Charlie Jacket & Waistcoat, Full 8 Yard Welsh Dress Kit, Wing Collar Shirt, Tartan Bowtie, Welsh Dress Ysgrepan (Sporran), Dress Shoes and Kilt Hose, the 35 piece band that will represent SBW and the principality at the international spectacle will never have looked finer, and look forward to performing in the tartan of the patron saint of Wales, St David.
Symphonic Brass Wales would like to thank Wales Tartan Centres for their incredibly generous support in this venture. For further information on the centres and their vast array of Welsh products, visit www.welsh-tartan.com
Sporting full Charlie Jacket & Waistcoat, Full 8 Yard Welsh Dress Kit, Wing Collar Shirt, Tartan Bowtie, Welsh Dress Ysgrepan (Sporran), Dress Shoes and Kilt Hose, the 35 piece band that will represent SBW and the principality at the international spectacle will never have looked finer, and look forward to performing in the tartan of the patron saint of Wales, St David.
Symphonic Brass Wales would like to thank Wales Tartan Centres for their incredibly generous support in this venture. For further information on the centres and their vast array of Welsh products, visit www.welsh-tartan.com
Symphonic Brass Wales to visit Germany
Symphonic Brass Wales has been invited to perform in Hamburg, Germany as guests of the Hamburg Polizei Show. The visit will be supported by the Hamburg Police Association and the Welsh Tartan Centre
Now in its forty first year, the Hamburg Polizei Show is a large scale indoor show and sister show of Canada's renowned Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo. Each year the German spectacular features various and numerous artists and acts from the Hamburg Police Force alongside a host of international performers, in front of sellout crowds of four thousand per performance, at the prestigious Hamburg Sporthalle.
Domestic acts for 2010 include the world famous Flying Grandpas gymnastic display team, the Hamburg Police Motorcycle Display Team, the ever popular Schnauzball police dog football teams, and the Hamburg Police Orchestra. Guests artists include Traumfanger Gymnastics from Munich University, STV Wettingen Gymnastics of Switzerland, Talentholdet of Denmark, the Canadian Forces Jiffy Jeep team, World Club Gymnastics Champions Club Piruett of Estonia, the Kanakovs Russian Bar team of Moscow, the Starbugs hip hop comedy dance group and Symphonic Brass Wales.
Further details of Symphonic Brass Wales' visit to Hamburg can be found here, while further information on the Polizei Show itself can be found at its own website www.polizeishow-hamburg.de and further information, in English, on the 2010 show here
Now in its forty first year, the Hamburg Polizei Show is a large scale indoor show and sister show of Canada's renowned Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo. Each year the German spectacular features various and numerous artists and acts from the Hamburg Police Force alongside a host of international performers, in front of sellout crowds of four thousand per performance, at the prestigious Hamburg Sporthalle.
Domestic acts for 2010 include the world famous Flying Grandpas gymnastic display team, the Hamburg Police Motorcycle Display Team, the ever popular Schnauzball police dog football teams, and the Hamburg Police Orchestra. Guests artists include Traumfanger Gymnastics from Munich University, STV Wettingen Gymnastics of Switzerland, Talentholdet of Denmark, the Canadian Forces Jiffy Jeep team, World Club Gymnastics Champions Club Piruett of Estonia, the Kanakovs Russian Bar team of Moscow, the Starbugs hip hop comedy dance group and Symphonic Brass Wales.
Further details of Symphonic Brass Wales' visit to Hamburg can be found here, while further information on the Polizei Show itself can be found at its own website www.polizeishow-hamburg.de and further information, in English, on the 2010 show here
σας ευχαριστώ!
Symphonic Brass Wales would like to offer its sincere thanks to the Municipality of Heraklion, the Heraklion Philharmonic Orchestra, the Apollonia Hotel, and all our wonderful hosts who made Symphonic Brass Wales' recent visit to Crete such a warm & positive experience.
The ensemble thoroughly enjoyed working together with the Heraklion Orchestra, the Paris Port Dover Pipe Band, the Highland & Island Dancers and all the traditional Cretan musicians during their recent visit and look forward to hopefully returning to Crete next year as part of the proposed Mediterranean Arts Festival.
Further information on the event will be posted here as and when it becomes available. In the meantime Ηράκλειο, σας ευχαριστώ και πάλι
The ensemble thoroughly enjoyed working together with the Heraklion Orchestra, the Paris Port Dover Pipe Band, the Highland & Island Dancers and all the traditional Cretan musicians during their recent visit and look forward to hopefully returning to Crete next year as part of the proposed Mediterranean Arts Festival.
Further information on the event will be posted here as and when it becomes available. In the meantime Ηράκλειο, σας ευχαριστώ και πάλι
Full Heraklion Itinerary Now Announced
The full itinerary for Symphonic Brass Wales' forthcoming tour to Heraklion has now been confirmed.
The group will be staying at the Apollonia Resort Hotel and performing alongside the Heraklion Philharmonic Orchestra, the Paris Port Dover Pipe Band of Canada, the Highland & Island Dancers of Scotland, and the Crete Traditional Music & Dance Group.
Symphonic Brass Wales look forward to once again representing Wales and the UK abroad and promoting traditional British brass music in this festival, aimed at promoting international peace and cooperation and the positive image of the nation of Greece.
The full tour itinerary can be found here
The group will be staying at the Apollonia Resort Hotel and performing alongside the Heraklion Philharmonic Orchestra, the Paris Port Dover Pipe Band of Canada, the Highland & Island Dancers of Scotland, and the Crete Traditional Music & Dance Group.
Symphonic Brass Wales look forward to once again representing Wales and the UK abroad and promoting traditional British brass music in this festival, aimed at promoting international peace and cooperation and the positive image of the nation of Greece.
The full tour itinerary can be found here
SBW to perform in Crete
Symphonic Brass Wales has been invited to perform in the Cretan capital of Heraklion City in September of this year.
SBW will perform alongside the Paris Port Dover Pipe Band of Ontario, Canada, representatives of the Highland School of Dance from Ayr, Scotland plus other international artists.
Heraklion City (Greek: Ηράκλειον) is the largest city and capital city of the island of Crete. It is also the fourth largest Greek city. Heraklion is close to the ruins of the palace of Knossos, which in Monoan times was the largest centre of population on Crete. It is thought that Knossos may well have had a port at the site of Heraklion as long ago as 2000 BC, though the present city of Heraklion was founded in 824 AD by the Saracens.
Heraklion is one of the Mediterranean region's most fascinating and vibrant cities. With the current efforts to open up the wonderful medieval city centre, it speaks of a past full of history and great events that reflect its location at the crossroads of three continents. The city is also the commercial and technological centre of the island. It has a strategic geopolitical position in the south-eastern Mediterranean Sea connecting three continents and many different cultures. Heraklion offers a wealth of museums, a summer-long arts festival, historical sightseeing, plus amazing nightlife and events throughout the year.
Symphonic Brass Wales very much look forward to performing in the festival in Heraklion and once again representing Wales and the UK abroad. Further information on the visit will be posted here as and when it becomes available.
SBW will perform alongside the Paris Port Dover Pipe Band of Ontario, Canada, representatives of the Highland School of Dance from Ayr, Scotland plus other international artists.
Heraklion City (Greek: Ηράκλειον) is the largest city and capital city of the island of Crete. It is also the fourth largest Greek city. Heraklion is close to the ruins of the palace of Knossos, which in Monoan times was the largest centre of population on Crete. It is thought that Knossos may well have had a port at the site of Heraklion as long ago as 2000 BC, though the present city of Heraklion was founded in 824 AD by the Saracens.
Heraklion is one of the Mediterranean region's most fascinating and vibrant cities. With the current efforts to open up the wonderful medieval city centre, it speaks of a past full of history and great events that reflect its location at the crossroads of three continents. The city is also the commercial and technological centre of the island. It has a strategic geopolitical position in the south-eastern Mediterranean Sea connecting three continents and many different cultures. Heraklion offers a wealth of museums, a summer-long arts festival, historical sightseeing, plus amazing nightlife and events throughout the year.
Symphonic Brass Wales very much look forward to performing in the festival in Heraklion and once again representing Wales and the UK abroad. Further information on the visit will be posted here as and when it becomes available.
SBW at the Royal Albert Hall
The Imperial Ice Stars and Royal Albert Hall present
Cinderella On Ice
24th – 28th February 2010
Strictly limited season – 8 performances only
Promotional Video
In February of this year musicians from Symphonic Brass Wales worked with composer Tim A. Duncan and the Imperial Ice Stars on Cinderella On Ice at London's Royal Albert Hall.
Presented by The Imperial Ice Stars and Royal Albert Hall, the critically acclaimed Imperial Ice Stars, the world’s leading theatrical ice skating company, brought a specially redesigned production of their spectacular, lavish new production of Cinderella on Ice to the hallowed stage of the Royal Albert Hall.
The production ran for a limited season of 8 performances, and Symphonic Brass Wales provided the brass and percussion elements of the show's live orchestral accompaniment.
This was just the second time in history that the arena floor of the Royal Albert Hall had been frozen with ice, and the first since the John Curry Symphony on Ice, featuring the Olympic gold medallist, was staged 25 years ago.
One of the most artistically challenging ice shows ever created, Cinderella on Ice has garnered outstanding reviews across-the-board during its tours of Australia, New Zealand and the UK, and will travel to Korea, Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand, Japan and South Africa as part of an extensive 2 year world tour before arriving in London.
“The Imperial Ice Stars are to skating what Cirque du Soleil is to circus - inspiring, original and great theatre.”
SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SYDNEY
So far nearly three million people across five continents have greeted The Imperial Ice Stars’ adrenaline-infused performances with standing ovations. Over the last five years, The Imperial Ice Stars have performed at many of the world’s most prestigious venues, from Sadler’s Wells in London’s West End to the Esplanade Theatre in Singapore, from Montreal’s Place des Arts to Moscow’s Red Square, and will now be adding the magnificent Royal Albert Hall to the list. The Imperial Ice Stars are the only ice skating company to have won a theatrical award – the Manchester Evening News ‘Best Special Entertainment’ for their production of Swan Lake on Ice in 2007.
The show took 18 months of pre-production planning, with a brand new score specially composed for the ice dance medium, making the production a powerful contemporary musical genre. The score has been composed by Tim A Duncan and Edward Barnwell, both highly regarded contemporary composers, and was recorded by the 72-piece Moscow State Cinematic Orchestra and 10 soloists from the Manchester Symphony Orchestra. At the Royal Albert Hall it will be complemented by a live 20-piece orchestra.
“**** A truly spectacular piece of entertainment.”
THE SCOTSMAN
Performed on a specially-created stage, frozen at minus 15 degrees Celsius, Cinderella on Ice boasts stunning special effects including fire and rain, flying, magnificent projected scenery depicting a Siberian town square and a black and silver art deco theatre, and glorious costumes from Albina Gabueva, head designer at Moscow’s famed Stanislavsky Theatre.
Formed in July 2004 as a joint venture between two leading producers of live entertainment, James Cundall and Tony Mercer, and entrepreneur and former speed skater Vladislav Olenin, The Imperial Ice Stars specialise in theatrical ice skating in the intimacy of the theatre. Comprising the cream of Russian skating talent, the majority of the skaters have been trained by Russia’s leading coaches - some from as early as four years of age - and between them have won more than 250 competition medals.
In a novel twist on the timeless tale, set in a Siberian town, The Imperial Ice Stars tell the story of Cinderella, a humble chorus dancer who is thrust into the spotlight as a prima ballerina and captivates the handsome Lord Mayor’s son - the most eligible bachelor in town - with her graceful performance. Despite rival attempts by her ballerina stepsisters to steal his heart, engineered with true villainy by her stepmother – the local ballet mistress, true love triumphs thanks to the magical powers of the Gypsy Fortune Teller and Cinderella’s kindly father, the town’s Watchmaker.
Artistic Director and Producer Tony Mercer says “The ‘Cinderella’ story has been told in many different cultures over many centuries. I wanted to give our version a new setting while retaining the ingredients and emotions of this timeless story.”
Playing the lead role of Cinderella is Olga Sharutenko, who partnered John Barrowman in the first series of ITV’s Dancing on Ice in 2006, to great popular acclaim. Her performance as Cinderella has earned worldwide praise from critics.
The Imperial Ice Stars’ Cinderella on Ice is their third production, following The Sleeping Beauty on Ice (2004 - 2006 and 2007- 2009) and Swan Lake on Ice (2006 - 2008).
Cinderella on Ice is produced by Lunchbox Theatrical Productions, Tony Mercer, Vladislav Olenin and David Atkins Enterprises, and presented in association with The Royal Albert Hall.
Performances:
Wednesday 24 February 19:30
Thursday 25 February 14:30 & 19:30
Friday 26 February 19:30
Saturday 27 February 14:30 & 19:30
Sunday 28 February 14:00 & 18:00
Booking Information:
Royal Albert Hall
Box Office (9am -9pm daily)
An administration charge of £3.50 applies except to personal callers at the Box Office
Book online www.royalalberthall.com
Cinderella On Ice at the Royal Albert Hall website:
http://www.royalalberthall.com/tickets/cinderella/default.aspx
Cinderella On Ice
24th – 28th February 2010
Strictly limited season – 8 performances only
Promotional Video
In February of this year musicians from Symphonic Brass Wales worked with composer Tim A. Duncan and the Imperial Ice Stars on Cinderella On Ice at London's Royal Albert Hall.
Presented by The Imperial Ice Stars and Royal Albert Hall, the critically acclaimed Imperial Ice Stars, the world’s leading theatrical ice skating company, brought a specially redesigned production of their spectacular, lavish new production of Cinderella on Ice to the hallowed stage of the Royal Albert Hall.
The production ran for a limited season of 8 performances, and Symphonic Brass Wales provided the brass and percussion elements of the show's live orchestral accompaniment.
This was just the second time in history that the arena floor of the Royal Albert Hall had been frozen with ice, and the first since the John Curry Symphony on Ice, featuring the Olympic gold medallist, was staged 25 years ago.
One of the most artistically challenging ice shows ever created, Cinderella on Ice has garnered outstanding reviews across-the-board during its tours of Australia, New Zealand and the UK, and will travel to Korea, Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand, Japan and South Africa as part of an extensive 2 year world tour before arriving in London.
“The Imperial Ice Stars are to skating what Cirque du Soleil is to circus - inspiring, original and great theatre.”
SUNDAY TELEGRAPH, SYDNEY
So far nearly three million people across five continents have greeted The Imperial Ice Stars’ adrenaline-infused performances with standing ovations. Over the last five years, The Imperial Ice Stars have performed at many of the world’s most prestigious venues, from Sadler’s Wells in London’s West End to the Esplanade Theatre in Singapore, from Montreal’s Place des Arts to Moscow’s Red Square, and will now be adding the magnificent Royal Albert Hall to the list. The Imperial Ice Stars are the only ice skating company to have won a theatrical award – the Manchester Evening News ‘Best Special Entertainment’ for their production of Swan Lake on Ice in 2007.
The show took 18 months of pre-production planning, with a brand new score specially composed for the ice dance medium, making the production a powerful contemporary musical genre. The score has been composed by Tim A Duncan and Edward Barnwell, both highly regarded contemporary composers, and was recorded by the 72-piece Moscow State Cinematic Orchestra and 10 soloists from the Manchester Symphony Orchestra. At the Royal Albert Hall it will be complemented by a live 20-piece orchestra.
“**** A truly spectacular piece of entertainment.”
THE SCOTSMAN
Performed on a specially-created stage, frozen at minus 15 degrees Celsius, Cinderella on Ice boasts stunning special effects including fire and rain, flying, magnificent projected scenery depicting a Siberian town square and a black and silver art deco theatre, and glorious costumes from Albina Gabueva, head designer at Moscow’s famed Stanislavsky Theatre.
Formed in July 2004 as a joint venture between two leading producers of live entertainment, James Cundall and Tony Mercer, and entrepreneur and former speed skater Vladislav Olenin, The Imperial Ice Stars specialise in theatrical ice skating in the intimacy of the theatre. Comprising the cream of Russian skating talent, the majority of the skaters have been trained by Russia’s leading coaches - some from as early as four years of age - and between them have won more than 250 competition medals.
In a novel twist on the timeless tale, set in a Siberian town, The Imperial Ice Stars tell the story of Cinderella, a humble chorus dancer who is thrust into the spotlight as a prima ballerina and captivates the handsome Lord Mayor’s son - the most eligible bachelor in town - with her graceful performance. Despite rival attempts by her ballerina stepsisters to steal his heart, engineered with true villainy by her stepmother – the local ballet mistress, true love triumphs thanks to the magical powers of the Gypsy Fortune Teller and Cinderella’s kindly father, the town’s Watchmaker.
Artistic Director and Producer Tony Mercer says “The ‘Cinderella’ story has been told in many different cultures over many centuries. I wanted to give our version a new setting while retaining the ingredients and emotions of this timeless story.”
Playing the lead role of Cinderella is Olga Sharutenko, who partnered John Barrowman in the first series of ITV’s Dancing on Ice in 2006, to great popular acclaim. Her performance as Cinderella has earned worldwide praise from critics.
The Imperial Ice Stars’ Cinderella on Ice is their third production, following The Sleeping Beauty on Ice (2004 - 2006 and 2007- 2009) and Swan Lake on Ice (2006 - 2008).
Cinderella on Ice is produced by Lunchbox Theatrical Productions, Tony Mercer, Vladislav Olenin and David Atkins Enterprises, and presented in association with The Royal Albert Hall.
Performances:
Wednesday 24 February 19:30
Thursday 25 February 14:30 & 19:30
Friday 26 February 19:30
Saturday 27 February 14:30 & 19:30
Sunday 28 February 14:00 & 18:00
Booking Information:
Royal Albert Hall
Box Office (9am -9pm daily)
An administration charge of £3.50 applies except to personal callers at the Box Office
Book online www.royalalberthall.com
Cinderella On Ice at the Royal Albert Hall website:
http://www.royalalberthall.com/tickets/cinderella/default.aspx
Cinderella In the Press
Following its stunning opening night at the Royal Albert Hall, the media offered their thoughts on Tony Mercer's production of Cinderella On Ice, featuring the Russian Imperial Ice Stars and the brilliant musical score of Tim A. Duncan and Edward Barnwell:
"...the kind of artistic innovation in ice dancing that Cirque du Soleil has achieved in circus"
Donald Hutera, The Times
Hearts Melt as Cinders Gets Her Skates On
"...that skating is something else. For the first half, my heart was mostly in my mouth"
Patrick Marmion, Daily Mail
"...exhilarating spins, lifts and leaps into a space just a third the size of a normal arena. Projected scenery and special effects of fire, rain and flying, combined with Tim A Duncan and Edward James Barnwell’s rousing score and Albina Gabueva’s lavish costumes, make this a spectacular production. It is rapturously received"
Liz Arratoon, The Stage
"a spectacular show along the lines of Cirque de Soleil"
Sarah Frater, WhatsOnStage.com
"As well as ice, expect to see fire, rain and jaw dropping stunts from [Cinderella's] cast of Olympic and World Champion ice skaters."
ITN itn.co.uk
Cinderella ran at the Royal Albert Hall, London Wednesday February 24 until Sunday February 28 2010.
Tel: 0207 838 3100
www.royalalberthall.com
"...the kind of artistic innovation in ice dancing that Cirque du Soleil has achieved in circus"
Donald Hutera, The Times
Hearts Melt as Cinders Gets Her Skates On
"...that skating is something else. For the first half, my heart was mostly in my mouth"
Patrick Marmion, Daily Mail
"...exhilarating spins, lifts and leaps into a space just a third the size of a normal arena. Projected scenery and special effects of fire, rain and flying, combined with Tim A Duncan and Edward James Barnwell’s rousing score and Albina Gabueva’s lavish costumes, make this a spectacular production. It is rapturously received"
Liz Arratoon, The Stage
"a spectacular show along the lines of Cirque de Soleil"
Sarah Frater, WhatsOnStage.com
"As well as ice, expect to see fire, rain and jaw dropping stunts from [Cinderella's] cast of Olympic and World Champion ice skaters."
ITN itn.co.uk
Cinderella ran at the Royal Albert Hall, London Wednesday February 24 until Sunday February 28 2010.
Tel: 0207 838 3100
www.royalalberthall.com