Brass with a Bang

The sound of brass and drum will be heard on Monday, 26 of June, at Theatr John Ambrose, Ruthin, during the opening evening of Ruthin Festival 2006. The stage will come alive when ten artists, representing the soul of contemporary India, The Jaipur Kawa Brass Band from Rajastan, performs live.

The Jaipur Kawa Brass Band has firmly established itself on the international music scene, having performed at Barcelona, Venice, Paris and Switzerland. They were such a hit at Glastonbury Festival last year, they have been booked to perform for the whole weekend in 2007.

Their performances on stage and on parade are full of energy and humour. The melodies and songs feature virtuoso solos and dazzling improvisations on the clarinet and trumpet. The percussionists elaborate their fast and spontaneous playing with the sophisticated rhythms of India, providing counterpoint to the Gypsy sound, and the band itself create a vivid and colourful drama on stage.

Hameed Khan Kawa, hails from a long family lineage of musicians and he has known the brass band since birth. In it's native place, Rajastan, the brass band is a feature of life itself. Hamees created this unique band to present the fantastic sound of the Indian Brass Band. Their repertoire blends popular themes from Bollywood films, traditional music from Rajastan with its distinctive Gypsy sound and even a touch of Hindustani classical music.

Mike Baines, Ruthin Festival Chairman explains: "Jaipur Kawa Brass Band will open this year's week long Ruthin music Festival with a bang. Their enthusiasm, their zest and dramatic performance will be a whirlwind opener to the event. It will, indeed, be one of those memorable concerts. The message is loud and clear - come and enjoy!"

Delyth Jones from Cadwyn Clwyd said: "Cadwyn Clwyd is pleased to be supporting Ruthin Festival through Leader + yet again this year. The event is, without doubt, an economic boost to local businesses and brings a cultural status to Ruthin and the surrounding area."