Some of the finest brass band musicians in the world are to visit the island next week, with the aim to help out a fellow Manx brass band.

Foden’s band will play at the Villa Marina on Saturday, July 15, in a special fund raising concert for the Manx National Youth Band.

Also, the young local musicians will get the chance to learn from the specialists and play alongside them in a series of workshops, which will be held during their visit.

Foden’s band are based in Sandbach, Cheshire, and have been in existence as a band since 1900.

With a reputation for providing world class entertainment, Foden’s were recently crowned North West Area Champions for a record 20th time and will contest the national finals at the Royal Albert Hall in October.

They have previously been named as the British national brass champions on 13 occasions, and also won multiple awards in other competitions, being named world champions twice.

Further honours for the band include playing by Royal command on four occasions, most recently for Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace.

Youth Band chairman Ian Mansell believes that the weekend will provide a unique opportunity for some of the island’s brass band musicians, and also for audiences to enjoy what should be an unforgettable night of outstanding music.

’It’s a fantastic opportunity and one that doesn’t come along too often,’ said Ian.

’Local brass players of all ages from across the island are more than welcome and the Foden’s members are kindly dedicating their time free of charge.

’We very much hope as many people as possible take up this opportunity to come and hear one of the world’s finest brass bands.

’It should be quite an occasion,’ Ian added.

Tickets are now on sale for the gala night in the Royal Hall, which is sponsored by the Steam Packet, and starts at 8pm. They are available from the Villa Marina box office or the Welcome Centre.

The workshops take place from 1.30pm to 3.30pm. Players can turn up but are asked to register by texting 166692 or email to [email protected]