EYMS Brass Band flies musician back >video
A WORLD-class cornet player has jetted 12,000 miles to help his former amateur bandmates defend their title.
Kiwi Steve Rudhall rushed to the aid of EYMS Brass Band after their star musician moved to a rival group.
In response, members called Mr Rudhall, who returned to his homeland two-and-half years ago.
He said: "I felt flattered when I received a text asking for help and I appreciated the opportunity to visit the good friends I have not seen since I left.
"They sent me the music and I have practiced at home in New Zealand."
Mr Rudhall fancies the band's chances of retaining the title.
"I am confident we can win," he said. "The band is in great shape."
Mr Rudhall believes he owes the band a debt of gratitude for their kindness.
He said: "Several years ago I came over to work in England. When my wife and I came to live in Brigg, we joined the EYMS band and we fitted in straight away. They were like family to us."
EYMS Brass Band will perform in Darlington on Sunday, in the North Of England Brass Band Championships, where they hoped to be crowned champions.
If they win, they will compete for the national title at the Royal Albert Hall in October.
It is possible Mr Rudhall and the group could come up against ex-band member Neil Day.
Mr Day recently joined the world's most famous brass band, Black Dyke, of Queensbury, West Yorkshire.
Peter Arden, secretary of EYMS Brass Band, said: "We were getting quite worried after Neil left.
"We needed to find someone quickly.
"It is a measure of the depth of friendship within EYMS Brass Band that after a couple of e-mails the arrangements were in place and Steve's flight was arranged.
"He has fitted straight back in and we are feeling confident about the competition."
3 Comments
by Tony, Burstwick
Friday, March 19 2010, 3:13PM
“We will be travelling by East Yorkshire Motor Services Coach kindly supplied by our sponsors!!!!!
In answer to the earlier question just before the second world war there were something in the region of 37 Brass Bands in Hull most (but not all) were allied to or supported by different firms / works in the City!!”
by Ranter, Hull.
Friday, March 19 2010, 1:37PM
“I have heard of miners brass bands, and that kind of music does fit in with images of " up North" or "down pit" . What exactly is its connection to buses?.
Anyway, good luck to them.”
by Daniel, Central Hull.
Friday, March 19 2010, 11:43AM
“The very best of luck to EYMS brass band I certainly hope they win. Will they be traveling by Hackney Transport Services.?”