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Virtuoso multi-instrumentalist, James Morrison, introduces a selection of modern brass music, showcasing all that’s best in the world of brass: modern New Orleans-style street bands playing heavy funk and hip hop, classic big bands and small group jazz, traditional brass bands, quintets and dectets, Balkan, rock, funk, ska and oompah bands – Top Brass has it all.

In this episode, we hear music from modern funk brass bands such as Hackney Colliery Band and Beat ’n’ Blow, an incredible cover of a Led Zeppelin classic by New Orleans band Bonerama, and tracks by jazz legends Jack Teagarden and Don Ellis. There’s also a rare recording by jazz virtuoso Scott Robinson, playing ophicleide.

Top Brass reports from the annual Durham Brass Festival, and tuba player and music historian Jeff Miller joins James to chart the development of brass instruments through the 19th century, giving rise to the modern brass band.