Durham Brass Festival’s Bond opening act unveiled

The band, formed in 1910, will open the week-long festival on Sunday 9 July with a special James Bond themed set entitled ‘For Your Eyes Only: 70 Years of Bond with the Reg Vardy Band’.

The North of England Brass Champions play at Sunderland Fire Station and bring legendary 007 scores to life, including music from Paul McCartney to Hans Zimmer.

Read more: Fat Freddy’s Drop is playing at the Durham Brass Festival this summer

Elizabeth Scott, Durham County Council’s Cabinet Member for Business and Partnerships, welcomed the act, which will bring cinema classics to life.

She said: “With the warmer weather approaching and the evenings getting lighter, now is the perfect time to look forward to summer and the fantastic festivals and events we have to offer in the county, where Durham Brass is one of our calendar highlights .”

“We strive to provide exciting events and cultural opportunities for all as part of our goal of making County Durham the cultural district.”

“From movie nights and Broadway performances to lively street musicians and traditional marching band nights, there really is something for everyone at Durham Brass.”

Running from Sunday 9th July to Sunday 16th July, the festival features a “busy program of lively street bands” with a packed lineup.

This latest announcement comes as New Zealand hit band Fat Freddy’s job was announced as the festival’s first act in March.

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The band, who have completed more than 1,000 performances in their career, will perform at Gala Durham on July 10th after headlining shows across Europe last year.

The band has found fame around the world, including performances at London’s Alexandra Palace and the International Jazz Festival in Melbourne.

Tickets for the Reg Vardy Band are available Here.