During the first week of June, the Nidaros Brass Band, from Trondheim in Norway, is visiting England on its first ever overseas tour, and will be giving four performances. The tour includes evening concerts in Kettering, in Guildford (with the Friary Guildford Brass Band), and in West Byfleet (with The Cobham Band), as well as a free lunchtime concert on the picturesque Village Green in Bourton on the Water, Gloucestershire. More details of the concerts, and how to obtain tickets, can be found at www.nidarosbrass.com or by calling 01895-420007.

The Nidaros Brass Band was formed in 2003 by brass band enthusiasts from Trondheim, who were keen to play in a brass band whose activity level was compatible with a busy lifestyle. The band rehearses every other Sunday and does not take part in competitions, although most of the band’s players have previously competed at championship section level with other bands. Instead the band focuses on giving entertaining and challenging concerts, featuring its own soloists, and is committed to performing music from a variety of musical genres to a high standard. The band is conducted by Geir Ulseth, who is in charge of music for the Norwegian Band Federation (NMF).

On tour, the band’s programmes will feature a mixture of traditional brass band music, including items that showcase the band’s soloists, Norwegian music, and more upbeat and swing numbers. The band will also be performing its signature march, “Nidaros”, commissioned by the band from Paul Sharman. We hope that British brass band enthusiasts will take this unique opportunity to come and hear the Nidaros Brass Band, for the first time outside Norway. We look forward to meeting you!