Preparations are well under way for Foden's as they look to represent England at the European Championships in May courtesy of their British Open victory in 2023. Speaking ahead of the contest Mark Wilkinson commented 'We are once again looking forward to representing England and are enjoying rehearsing our own choice test piece as well as the set work 'Transitions in Energy' by Fredrick Schjelderu. This work is very demanding both musically and technically and will pose a stern test for all! We are grateful to Darren Lea (band member) who has been busy preparing our itinerary and logistics which has included cancelled flights and having to re book from an alternative airport! Ahead of the contest we will be holding an open rehearsal in Sandbach on the 6 th May and will publish details nearer the time.' Mark continued 'Members have been extremely busy fundraising to cover the huge costs needed. The band will be making a large contribution helped by player payments. We are extremely grateful to those who have made various donations to help and have set up a go fund page to cover the additional costs needed due to the cancelled and re arranged flights! Any donations would be gratefully appreciated https://gofund.me/908e0b3d

On Friday 20 th June Foden's will perform at the Victoria Hall, Hanley alongside its very own Youth Band and six community choirs in 'A Night of Musical Harmony! The concert, supported by the 'Entrust Music Service Staffordshire' will see Foden's, Foden's Youth and the combined choirs each perform individual items before joining forces for a massed finale. Speaking on behalf of the Entrust Music Services, Paul Hughes commented 'This concert represents a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the vibrant musical landscape within Staffordshire, bringing together world-class brass banding with the passionate voices of our local community choirs for an unforgettable collaborative performance.' The community choirs consist of Alsager Community Choir, Dougie Mac Choir, Endon Community Choir, Fulford Community Choir, Ovation - The Staffordshire County Council Workplace Choir and Stafford Military Wives Choir Program and will be conducted by Dan Hollingshurst, a vocal coach and teacher working for Entrust Music Service Staffordshire and City Music Service (Stoke-on-Trent) Foden's Band are grateful to Joseph Lymer & Son and Horne Brothers, Independent Family Funeral Directors for sponsoring the event Tickets from £6 via https://www.priorbooking.com/u/fodens