British Brass Band legend Dr Roy Newsome and his wife Muriel land on Australian soil in just 24 hours to commence a three week tour of the East Coast of Australia as guests of the Federation of Australasian Brass Bands (FABB).

The Newsome tour includes visiting Cairns, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Byron Bay, Newcastle and Sydney.

Legendary

A message from the Federation of Australasian Brass Bands Patron, Adrienne, Lady Stewart ONZM,QSM, reads:

"It is indeed a great privilege for the Federation of Australasian Brass Bands (FABB) to be hosting the 80th birthday celebration visit of Dr Roy Newsome and his wife Muriel to the shores of Australia.

Dr Newsome is regarded throughout Australasia as the legendary father figure of the modern day brass band movement and his impact on the present generation of brass band musicians worldwide is truly outstanding.

As patron of FABB I would like to thank the St Mary’s Band Club and friends for the wonderful support they have given in preparation for the Newsome’s visit to Sydney.

I believe the visit by Dr Newsome to Australia will help galvanise the relationship between the Anglo tradition of community brass banding and the Federation of Australasian Brass Bands in promoting and perpetuating our shared passion for making music together.

Happy Birthday Dr. Roy!"

Celebration Concert

Dr. Newsome will appear as guest conductor of St. Mary’s Brass Band in celebration of his 80th birthday Australian tour. The concert entitled ‘Youth Salutes a Master’ will take place at St. Mary’s Band Club, Western Sydney on Sunday June 27th, 2pm. Tickets $5 available from St Mary’s Band Club reception (Tel 02 96231211).

The concert also features British cornet virtuoso, Paula Russell, New Zealand ‘champion of champions’ winner 2009.