Since 2000, Foden's have travelled to Armagh, Northern Ireland each February to hold an annual concert and masterclass as guests of the Armagh OId Boys' Band. In the same year, the Armagh Summer School was launched and continues to be held annually open to brass and percussion players of all ages and abilities. All of these events were, and continue to be, the brainchild of Ivor Stevenson from the Armagh Old Boys Brass Band. Ivor continues to be a major driving force for the encouragement of brass playing in Northern Ireland. In honour of these achievements, he was awarded an MBE for his services to banding in Northern Ireland as well as becoming a Vice President of Foden's. The annual summer course gives brass enthusiasts the opportunity to study, learn, perform and socialise with tutors from Foden’s Band. Set in the historic city of Armagh, Northern Ireland, the course base is the City of Armagh High School between the 11 th and 16 th August. This year, delegates on the non residential course will spend a week of rehearsals and sectionals with Musical Director Mike Fowles, and tutors Mark Wilkinson & Richard Poole (Cornets), Jonathan Bates (Flugel & Horns), Gary Curtin & Mark Bousie (Euphoniums & Baritones), Shaun Farrington (Trombones), Stewart Baglin (Basses) and Anthony Mann (Percussion) - all for just £60! Further details via jastevenson4@hotmail.com

On Friday 20 th June, Foden's Band returned to the fantastic Victoria Hall, Hanley for a night of Community Music, sharing the stage with their fantastic Youth Band and Community Choirs - Alsager Community Choir, Dougie Mac Choir, Endon Community Choir, Fulford Community Choir & Ovation! Foden's Youth performed a number of 'extended' works under Musical Directors Mark Bousie & Mike Fowles with some truly outstanding solo playing in the first half, before the audience were treated to the Choir contributions under the direction of Dan Hollingshurst In the second half, Foden's revisited ‘CASSIUS: The Rumble in the Jungle’ set before bringing over 200 musicians together for a massed performance of ‘Make Your Own Kind of Music!' Thanks to sponsors Joseph Lymer & Son, and Horne Brothers for helping create such a memorable evening of music making!