The departure date for Brass Whanganui's trip to China is looming and local audiences will get a chance to hear them play and support them this weekend.
On Saturday night, Brass Whanganui will take to the stage at Lucky Bar + Kitchen along with Damn Raucous Brass, The Ratana Boys and The Jamming Gents as a final fundraising effort for travel costs.
Brass Whanganui's status as New Zealand's reigning top B grade band and their multi-award winning Thunderbirds-themed marching displays at the 2018 national competitions earned them an invitation to perform at the 2019 Shanghai Tourism Festival.
Musical director Bruce Jellyman said although the festival organisers have covered the cost of accommodation and meals, Brass Whanganui has been fundraising for travel expenses which will cost an estimated $85,000.
"Firstly the band will travel to Xi'an where we get a special tour of the archaeological site of the terracotta warriors and other Xi'an attractions."