Every year (for the past 8, anyway!) in the borough of Richmond Upon Thames there is a special Christmas event that focusses on local brass talent. ‘Festive Brass’ is a celebration of the vibrant community of brass learners and practitioners which features learner groups and ensembles from the Richmond Music Trust, local schools and full brass bands.
In the past, the event was supported by featuring our friends Regent Brass and Fulham Brass Band, as there was not a brass band in the area. Since Richmond Brass Band reformed in October 2017, the band was also able to entertain and delight the community in Festive Brass 2017 and then claiming the starring role in last year’s brilliant concert (with huge thanks to Fulham and Regent whom the band looks forward to collaborating with on many future events)! Of course, the true stars are really the up and coming youngsters and it was a wonderful opportunity to have 2 young soloists perform with Richmond Brass Band accompanying.
What makes Festive Brass a wonderful annual event in our community is the fact that it raises funds for good causes. Every year the proceeds from ticket sales, food, drink and raffle go towards furthering music education in Richmond and also to the Mayor’s chosen charity or charities. For 2018 the charity is Refuge Richmond who provide a range of services and support to women and children who may experience gender-based violence.
Richmond Brass Band was elated by the response to this most recent Festive Brass, both in terms of feedback from an entertained audience and by the money raised. It was a great pleasure for Richmond Brass Band Musical Director, Victoria van Uden to present a cheque for £600 to Mayor Ben Khosa for Refuge. Another £600 has also been given to the Richmond Music Trust to continue their development of young musicians in the community. Many thanks to Richmond Council for the use of Clarendon Hall and for supporting the development of brass music in the community.
Looking forward to Festive Brass 2019!
