Brass Call-Out!
People in the North East can join a ground-breaking drumming and dance group for a performance at this year’s Durham Miners Gala.
Crook-based Jack Drum Arts are collaborating with Durham Brass Festival and Redhills and are looking for brass players of all ages (from Grade 3 standard upwards) to perform in their community carnival parade performance group, Nordestinos.
Nordestinos mix North-East Brazilian style samba drumming and dance with North-East folk songs, and received fantastic public feedback after their debut performance at Durham Miners Gala in 2022 where they marched with Rough Lea Lodge.
Jack Drum Arts are looking for enthusiastic brass players interested in joining a unique team of community participants. Current performers are from all walks of life and range from teens to those in their 70s.
Nordestinos is currently a passionate group of around 80 people who touch the hearts and minds of audiences nationwide. Although their repertoire is rooted firmly in North East folk traditions, they have bookings across the UK in 2023.
Alongside the performance dates, you must be available on 17th or 18th June for rehearsals at a city centre Durham venue.
To get involved, please email helen@jackdrum.co.uk, or by calling the Jack Drum Arts office on 01388 765002.
Please ensure you provide info including the instrument you play, your level of playing and/or performance experience and your availability for Miners Gala on Saturday 8th July.
There will be further opportunities to join the group for BrazilIca Festival Liverpool on Saturday 5th August.
NB: If you are under 18 years of age we will need parental consent.
This is a moving performance piece, and has to be seen live to be fully appreciated, but below are some links to give you a flavour of the work:
Nordestinos – Cullercoats Bay @ Durham Miners’ Gala
https://vimeo.com/showcase/8757226/video/732030411
Nordestinos – The Blaydon Races (created during lockdown 2020)
https://vimeo.com/showcase/8757226/video/421639708