World renowned musician to star at Wishaw's Commonwealth Concert

One of the world’s leading exponents of trumpet and cornet, Russell Gray will be performing at South Wishaw Parish Church on the evening of Saturday 10th May 2014.

Russell will be the special guest of South Lanarkshire’s leading Brass Band, Coalburn Silver Band who will also be joined on the night by the award winning children’s band, Coalburn Bronze Band.

The concert entitled ‘A Concert for the Commonwealth’ will feature music from around the Commonwealth and commences at 7.30pm with the doors open at 7pm; tickets are not necessary, simply pay on the door, admission £5

Russell is currently holding posts of Adjunct Professor at the Queensland Conservatorium of Music (Australia), Principal Conductor of the Cambrian Philharmonic Orchestra (Wales), Musical Director of the National Youth Brass Band of Scotland, and President of the National Association of Brass band Conductors.

Russell was born in Scotland in 1968, and in his early years learned to play the cornet. By the time he was twelve years old he had already won the junior solo Championships of both Scotland and Great Britain.

At University Russell was a member of the world famous Black Dyke Mills Brass Band.

Yamaha became aware of Russell’s talents and soon a relationship was established with him as an internationally endorsed soloist.  This appointment has helped Russell become one of the most sought after Brass soloists and clinicians in the world today.

Accompanying Russell on the night will be Coalburn Silver Band who has a special relationship with South Wishaw Parish Church, having played at the remembrance services and a number of concerts over the past 3 decades.

Another treat lies in store with music from the award winning children’s band, Coalburn Bronze Band who will play a short and entertaining programme on the commonwealth theme.

Band President Alan Court commented '' this is the most eagerly awaited concert for years. With a fabulous venue, brilliant soloists and the children of the Bronze Band this should be a truly wonderful night of entertainment. The added bonus of Yamaha Artist, Russell Gray as our guest means this is going to be a very special night''.