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BB 2-3.indd 2 22-03-2011 18:06:48 NEWS Sheona White joins Black Dyke Black Dyke Band has announced that Sheona appointed to the seat last autumn but now White is to join the band as its new solo horn. moves to the solo cornet bench. Having enjoyed a long and successful period with Yorkshire Building Society that saw her In response, the band’s Musical Director, Dr. star in eight European and four British Open Nicholas Childs, commented: “Sheona has an Championship victories, Sheona White hit international reputation as one of the world’s the national headlines last summer when finest tenor horn players. Her sound and artistry she became the first female to contest with are the hallmark of her terrific talent.” Grimethorpe Colliery Band at the British Open. Secretary, Mike Shenton, added: “Nicholas On her latest move to Black Dyke, she Childs and the band would like to thank Alex commented: “I am very excited about playing Kerwin who has decided to move from horn again after quite some time, and to open a to solo cornet. Alex is a wonderful person, very new chapter with Black Dyke Band and all that talented and always puts the band first.” brings is a journey I am really looking forward Sheona White’s first concert with Black Dyke to being a part of.” will be tonight (26th) at the Castle Theatre Sheona White replaces Alex Kerwin, who was in Wellingborough.

Foden’s to support Japanese disaster fund

Two Japanese members of Foden’s Band, triggered a tsunami which hit the east coast of our Japanese connection being so important Natsumi McDonald and Fumika Kimura, are Japan, with ten-metre waves leaving a trail of to Foden’s, we are naturally very keen to help in the process of arranging a number of destruction and a death toll of over 8,000. It is Natsumi and Fumika’s efforts, so would appeal fundraising events involving Foden’s with believed that 13,000 people are still missing in to everyone to visit our website and download all proceeds going to the British Red Cross the area. our recent recording of Crimond. The proceeds in support of the organisation’s work to help Speaking to BB on behalf of the band, Mark will all go to the British Red Cross Japan victims of the recent Japanese earthquake Wilkinson commented: “The earthquake Tsunami Appeal.” and tsunami. triggered fires and caused severe damage to Any one interested in purchasing this download The earthquake, which struck on Friday 11 buildings, leaving 1.2 million homes without and helping the Appeal is asked to visit the March and measured 9.0 on the Richter scale, electricity and 1.4 million without water. With bands website at www.fodensband.co.uk

Brass Band debate with Kenneth Crookston (Editor of British Bandsman) NABBC convention in Scotland and Iwan Fox (Editor of 4barsrest.com). The Annual Convention of the National Association of Brass Band These sessions will be followed by an evening dinner, with informal music Conductors (NABBC) will be held next weekend (1-3 April) at the Hilcroft and guest speaker, Tony George. Sunday’s morning sessions include Hotel in Whitburn, returning to the West Lothian town following the a presentation by Bruce Fraser on his new publication, The Brass Band successful event held there in 2006. Method, followed by the NABBC AGM. On Sunday afternoon there will be Following an informal gathering on the Friday evening, there will be five a new music session with Newtongrange Band and the closing concert comprehensive sessions on the Saturday, comprising: will feature West Lothian Schools Brass Band (Nigel Boddice MBE). Musical Presentation by Davur Juul Magnusson (principal trombone of Participation in the Convention sessions, Saturday lunch and dinner, and the Royal Scottish National Orchestra); teas/coffees is available to members of the NABBC at a cost of £35.00 Conducting Techniques with Dr. Alistair Mitchell; inclusive, and to non-members at a cost of £40.00. Individual sessions are Composing and Arranging with Alan Fernie; priced at £5.00 per person. Entry to the closing concert is free. Further Presentation by Iain Muirhead of Wallace Mutes; details can be obtained from the NABBC website at www.nabbc.org.uk

National line-up finalised Co-operative, Roberts Bakery, Westoe, Yorkshire Imperial Urqhuart Travel. Kapitol Promotions Ltd., the organiser of the National Brass Band 2nd Section Championships of Great Britain, has announced the final line-up and Barnsley Chronicle, Becontree Brass, Bilton Silver (Rugby), Brunel Brass, details of this year’s National Finals. Saturday 24 September will see Catterick Brass, City of Discovery, Cockerton Silver, Granite City Brass, the 2nd and 4th sections take place at the Centaur at Cheltenham Haydock, Leicestershire Co-op, Lewis Merthyr, Llwydcoed, Morecambe, Racecourse. The 1st and 3rd sections will be on Sunday 25 September. Northfleet Brass, Pendennis Brass (Falmouth), South Yorkshire Police, The Championship Section Final will take place at the Royal Albert Hall in Thundersley. London on Saturday 15 October. The qualifiers are: 3rd Section Championship Section Amington, BAE Systems, Brass Sounds Inverclyde, City of Bradford, Beaumaris, Brighouse and Rastrick, Carlton Main Frickley Colliery, Daventry, Downton, Goodwick, Hangleton, Horbury Victoria, Hoover Co-op Funeralcare, Cory, Exchange Communications Whitburn, (Bolton), Ripon City, St. David’s Brass, Sidmouth Town, Treherbert and EYMS, Fairey (Geneva), Foden’s, Flowers, Hepworth, Pemberton Old DW, District, Whitworth Vale and Healey, York Railway Institute. Redbridge, Reg Vardy, Rothwell Temperance, Thoresby Colliery, 4th Section Tredegar, Virtuosi GUS, Woodfalls, Zone One. Abertillery and District Youth, Besses Boys, Boarshurst Silver, Burbage 1st Section (Buxton), Bratton Silver, Dinnington Colliery, Dronfield, Aldbourne, Bedford Town, Bournemouth Concert Brass, Broxburn and CMW Golborne, Harwich R.B.L., Hatherleigh Silver, Ireland Colliery Livingston, City of Cardiff (Mellingriffith), East London Brass, Harrogate, (Chesterfield), L.G.B. Brass, Kingsway Printers Cleethorpes, MacTaggart Hathern, Hammond’s Saltaire, Haverhill, Kirkintilloch Kelvin, Scott Loanhead, Mellingriffith 2, NASUWT Riverside Concert, New Forest Longridge, Phoenix West Midlands, Pontardulais Town, Ratby Brass, Ramsay Town, Rushden Town, Tayport Instrumental.

BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 3

BB 2-3.indd 3 22-03-2011 18:06:53 One of the top destination for touring bands - why not explore Belgium with your band?

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BB 4-5.indd 4 22-03-2011 18:07:54 COMPANY NEWS Thinking of taking your band on tour? Read some top tips here first!

With so many options available, devising 4. The More the Merrier the perfect tour itinerary can be a stressful “We had a group that was made up of a 300 and difficult experience. Here to give you a strong choir and a band, plus 100 friends and helping hand, the Concert Tours team from family who took a tour to Paris accompanied Rayburn Tours has joined together to bring by a team of nine Rayburn Tours staff to you their personal top tips to make your tour ensure that the trip ran smoothly. It was a success. fantastic to have such a large group and a great opportunity for the team to travel on 1. Go Local tour together.” “One of my recent Rhineland tour groups found Ally Wellington, Concert Tours Consultant a great restaurant called San Marco next to one of its performance venues. The members 5. Take part in a festival reported fantastic service and excellent food. “Festivals are a great way for groups to really It just shows that if you keep your eyes peeled immerse themselves in the local culture. I whilst exploring the area, you can stumble on had a recent group perform at the Toledo some great experiences.” International Organ Festival in Spain. We Roy Varney, Concert Tours Co-ordinator. promoted the performance in the festival and the audience was hugely enthusiastic, queuing around the block to see the group perform. I 2. Learn the Lingo would recommend anyone thinking of touring “I was in Germany with a tour last July where a to consider adding a festival performance to member of the group welcomed the audience their itinerary.” and introduced the performance in German. Silvia Bottinelli, Concert Tours Co-ordinator Even if you only learn to say something phonetically, I think it is definitely worthwhile And finally… and the locals really appreciate it.” 6. Give Something Back Martyn Rattenbury, Concert Tours Consultant. “On a recent Paris trip one of the groups performed a charity concert. Not only was it an 3. Explore Unusual Venues excellent concert in a beautiful church in central “We found a great venue for a recent jazz band Paris, but there was standing room only for the tour. It was truly professional with a large, audience and the choir managed to raise 1,500 enthusiastic audience, great facilities and keen euros for a local charity!” management. It was one of the best evenings Emily Thorp, Concert Tours Co-ordinator. they have ever had on a tour! We’ll definitely be sending more groups to this venue and Rayburn Tours organise worldwide performance looking out for more gems like this at our tours, contact them today on 01332 347828 or other destinations.” visit their website www.rayburntours.com to Chris Stacey, Concert Tours Consultant. discuss your next band tour.

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BB 4-5.indd 5 22-03-2011 18:07:57 2011 REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS Cory on fi re in Swansea Paul Hindmarsh reports on an intriguing Welsh Regional Championships. Cory Band celebrates its fi ne victory

Having heard Foden’s Band’s high-class eight, which were over dominant in the texture, intelligent reading - warm of tone and much performance of Paganini Variations in Blackpool certainly from where I was sitting. There was a more alive to the organic fl ow of the work that at the start of the ‘regional’ odyssey, I thought tenderness in the way Joanne Childs delivered the conductor had demonstrated with Leyland that few bands would be able to match it for the fl ugel horn’s big tune, while the blend of Band in Blackpool. The ending was thrilling and the blend of expressive fl air, technique and soprano, solo cornet and horn in the perilous the performance was packed with incident and structural coherence. However, Cory Band’s cadenzas was not bettered on this occasion. The detail. The occasional lapses in intonation and performance in Swansea’s Brangwyn Hall on drama and authority of Christopher Thomas’s fl uff s probably cost the band a qualifying spot Sunday evening was every bit its equal in terms trombone solo in Variation 3 earned him the at the ‘Final’ in October. of technical prowess and in a diff erent league in best instrumentalist prize. As for the blazing The third place went to the current British terms of power and impact. The Welsh Region’s fi nale - the command of detail at speed and Open Champion, Tredegar Town. With the adjudicator, David Read, who had judged the in full voice was brilliant. At the end of his inspirational Ian Porthouse at the helm, the work at its fi rst competitive outing in the British comments to the band, David Read wrote that band impressed from its number two draw Open 20 years go, was in no doubt that Cory’s he had ‘run out of superlatives’, and we were with the integrity of the reading. The start powerful performance was the most complete all in no doubt that we had heard a winning was pristine. The clarity of the detail and the that he has ever heard. Few in the hall would performance, which secures the band’s place logical fl ow of the reading held the attention argue with his assessment once David Childs in the 2012 European Championship line-up, throughout. The cornets’ acrobatics in the Bolero had delivered Paganini’s theme in his inimitable irrespective of the outcome in Montreux were fl awless and the ending was resplendent fashion - such poise and elegance. Had Mr. Read next month. in detail. The occasional fl aws were probably been judging on the fi rst few bars alone, Paganini Variations’ ‘classic’ test-piece status exaggerated given what followed from Cory, it might have been a diff erent story. The derives from its expressive and stylistic range. but from the musical point of view, this was a opening triplets were some of the scruffi est The text off ers conductor and player much lovely show. of the evening. Thereafter Robert Childs interpretative freedom, as the composer Beaumaris, well drawn at number six, was galvanised his players to deliver as technically mentioned from the stage, “I wrote this piece 21 the surprise package. Having heard many of commanding a reading of ‘Paganini’ as one years ago actually and speaking as a parent, it these young players when they were members could wish for. I have rarely seen him as grew up and left home sometime ago. And in a of Anglesey’s fi ne youth bands, it was so animated on the podium. “It’s that kind of sense listening to it now in all these marvellous encouraging to hear how well the players have piece,” he commented afterwards. performances, it’s astonishing how everybody matured under Gwyn Evans’ direction. His lively In his note on the piece, Philip Wilby describes shares the test that I wrote and has created so demeanour and his engagement with the his homage to Paganini’s romantic heritage as many beautiful autobiographies. You think of players brought a freshness and spontaneity ‘a mixture of extravagant virtuosic display and all the trombone solos, for example, every one to the music that some other bands missed. serene and passionate melody’. Extravagant absolutely diff erent from each other, every Beaumaris plays with a light, attractive sound. is an apt description for Cory’s performance. soprano cornet, every fl ugel horn. What a great The opening bubbled nicely along and there The shape of the reading was one of extremes. treat it was to hear people treating my off spring was plenty of character in the Canon and Bolero, The composer heard “real anger” in the fl ying with such delightful respect.” but the low bass solo that followed was hardly fi ngers of cornets and low brass in the two The standard in the Welsh Championship audible and I missed the frisson of power and presto variations, with visceral power and Section was very high, with only one band really abandon that the fast variations demand. It agility combined. The Bolero was dazzling in struggling to meet the challenge. By the time was an enjoyable, if fl awed performance, but it its virtousity. The funeral march was uniquely Cory had blown us all away with its brilliance, clearly caught the ear of the adjudicator. How balanced, favouring the ominous bass line. I’ve we had already heard two of the other three marvellous that this band will now have the never heard it played like that before, but it performances that David Read described as opportunity to play in the Royal Albert Hall. worked. My only quibble in terms of balance outstanding. Tongwynlais Temperance, under Below these four there were mixed fortunes. would have been the ‘bell’ sounds of variation Philip Harper, opened the section with an While each performance had its virtues, BTM

BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 6

BB 6-7-8-9.indd 6 22-03-2011 18:01:59 2011 REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

sounded rather too contained and accident up, spirits were lifted for a vigorous ending. to notice the trouble some bands were in at this prone, Northop took some risks, but the For Brian Buckley this was the outstanding point. He continued: “The fiendishly difficult principal players were not always secure, and performance of the day, both in its musicality rhythms didn’t always come off. And there Markham and District struggled hard to meet and shape, and, as he continued, “There were was a bit of bluffing going on, particularly in the demands of the work. only two that managed the bright, burnished the basses.” In his remarks to the audience after Saturday Berlioz brass chords right. They were exceptional Overall he was impressed with the efforts: “I evening’s 1st Section, adjudicator, C. Brian on the day.” was pleasantly surprised and didn’t think it Buckley confessed to some surprise that bands The other was City of Cardiff (Melingriffith). With would be quite as good as it was. One band had found Le Carnaval Romain so hard. its line-up of experienced players, it was perhaps was outstanding in the balance, the nuances, “Although it’s not an easy overture musically, I no fluke that the band continued its rise up the shape, phrasing, the risks it took - a very thought it was fairly straightforward technically,” the rankings with this well-deserved runner- musical performance. And I would like to he observed, “but it seems that, today, a number up place, and with it the other Welsh place in congratulate whoever the conductor is. It was of bands decided that it was going to be the line-up for Cheltenham. It was one of the quite outstanding in this section. I am sure given technically difficult as well, which I found rather most elegant readings of the section - neat the right piece, this band will do very well in the strange at this level, the 1st Section, where the and reasonably tidy at the start, with a languid Finals. The band that came second also gave a top bands will be thinking about going towards euphonium solo, some lovely blended sounds fine performance - not quite as good, some little the Championship Section.” with cornet and soprano and one of the best slips, but we are prepared for that in the piece This brilliant showpiece by Berlioz is a tough finishes of the day - a band to watch. where there are some many gentle moments.” ask for Championship Section bands, let alone While Tylorstown delivered a well-organised From first note to last, Llwydcoed had the the 1st Section, and it is much to the credit of performance, it lacked the flair of the best. measure of Eric Ball’s inspired text. The biggest four of the ten bands in Swansea that the music Conversely, much fancied Wrexham seemed to compliment one can give band and conductor sounded as good as it did. Brian Buckley was take too many risks. Last place was probably is that it didn’t sound like a 2nd Section band. in no doubt that the top four were well ahead a touch harsh, but it was disappointing given The band’s principal euphonium soloist, David of the rest in a section where the majority the pre-event expectations. There were mixed Johnson, was by some way the best soloist on struggled. Only one band managed to deliver fortunes for the remaining bands, with a couple show. The performance maintained cohesion the ‘pearly’ opening with real zest and without coming close to collapse. and focus right to the end. Lewis Methyr, under blemish - and that was band number one, Earlier in the day, we had the distinct pleasure the experienced direction of Gareth Pritchard, Burry Port. Under the intelligent baton of Mike of hearing some rather good ‘Resurgams’ in sealed a first ‘Finals’ place for 27 years with a Thorne, the band gave a secure and characterful the 2nd Section. David Read confessed to more heart-on-sleeve, robust reading, that reading. Tone was strong and well-rounded, some surprise at the high standard, given improved greatly from a very wobbly start. the Salterello had genuine lift. Ceri John’s the mauling the piece had received in other Royal Buckley Town’s performance also began euphonium solo was high class, but he was up regions. His remarks after the section were nervously, but became more secure as against some stiff competition elsewhere. ‘right on the money’: “Resurgam was difficult for it unfolded. There was an extra ounce of flair in the Championship Section bands in 1950, when I The victors in the 3rd and 4th sections produced approach of Pontardulais Town and its excellent played it, and I think it would be quite stretching some valiant efforts that were well ahead of conductor, Paul Jenkins. The fluidity of phrasing - not technically perhaps - for our top bands their respective fields. Brian Buckley was very and subtlety of nuance in the euphonium today. The difficulty in the piece is the simplicity impressed with the way the young players playing of Matthew Jenkins was a class above of it. Take the opening. What’s difficult about of the Goodwick Band tackled the range of the rest of the field. He was also accompanied playing a bottom C? It’s the low dynamic and styles that Philip Wilby’s A Little Light Music sensitively, without the bumpy ride that some that it’s very serene and calm.” Towards the big demands. Under the precise and clear direction other bands gave their soloists. While there was climax, the music becomes technically much of Matthew Jenkins (who acquitted himself a momentary loss of focus before the final wind- more demanding. Mr. Read wasn’t the only one so well on euphonium in the 1st Section),

BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 7

BB 6-7-8-9.indd 7 22-03-2011 18:02:02 Derby s Annual FoDSA Concert The Black Dyke Band

SATURDAY 16TH APRIL 2011, 7.30 PM, DERBY ASSEMBLY ROOMS

16th April this year sees the fourth annual charity concert presented by the Friends of Derby Salvation Army (FoDSA) featuring the world famous Black Dyke Band. The band s most recent National Championship win made them the most successful brass band in history and their successes in the contest field are unparalleled. However, it is their amazing concerts which continue to astound audiences.

This years Assembly Rooms concert in Derby promises to be the best yet with works by Shostakovitch (Festive Overture); Karl Jenkins (The Armed Man); spectacular solos by cornet player Richard Marshall; euphonium player Gary Curtin and young flugelhorn player Zoe Hancock and in addition, an ebullient version of Oh When the Saints Go Marching In by Paul Duffy. Particular interest is being shown in Black Dyke s take on the Dave Brubeck classic Take Five . The programme ends with Tchaikovsky s masterpiece The 1812 Overture. Of special interest to the local audience will be music by the Derby-born Composer Ronald Binge in the form of his delightful Elizabethan Serenade.

There have been times during the last year when it seemed that the busiest people in the brass band medium have been the obituary writers. Indeed, the Black Dyke Band themselves have, within the last 6 months, lost 3 massive figures from their long heritage; Maurice Murphy, James Watson and Major Peter Parkes. However, the Derby Central Band of the Salvation Army has lost a star of its own: David Morton, leader of the Young Peoples Band at Derby Citadel, was promoted to glory on 15th February. There will be time for reflection on David s memory during the concert.

Tickets are £12.50 - £17.50, concessions available. Book tickets now on 01332 255800, online at www.derbylive.co.uk or in person at Assembly Rooms, Market Place, Derby or Derby Theatre, Theatre Walk, Westfield.

BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 8

BB 6-7-8-9.indd 8 22-03-2011 18:02:07 2011 REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS Full results from Swansea

Championship Section Test-piece: Paganini Variations (Philip Wilby) Adjudicator: David Read MBE 1. Cory (Dr. Robert Childs)* 2. Beaumaris (Gwyn Evans)* 3. Tredegar (Ian Porthouse)* 4. Tongwynlais Temperance (Philip Harper) 5. BTM (Tom Davoran) 6. Northop (Thomas Wyss) 7. Markham and District (Adrian Morton) Best Instrumentalist: Chris Thomas, trombone, Cory The 3rd Section Shield presented to Goodwick by C. Brian Buckley 1st Section Test-piece: Le Carnaval Romain (Hector Berlioz arr. Frank Wright) Adjudicator: C. Brian Buckley 1. Pontardulais Town (Paul Jenkins)* 2. City of Cardiff (Mellingriffith) (Gareth Ritter)* 3. Tylorstown (Gary Davies) 4. Burry Port (Michael Thorne) 5. Penclawdd Brass (Tony Small) 6. Rogerstone (Julian Jones) 7. Abergaveney Borough (David Griffith) 8. Parc and Dare (Martyn Ford) 9. Deiniolen (Gavin Saynor) 10. Wrexham Brass (Wayne Ruston) Best Instrumentalist: Matthew Jenkins, euphonium, Pontardulais 2nd Section Test-piece: Resurgam (Eric Ball) 4th Section cup is presented Cup and plate for Paul Jenkins Adjudicator: David Read MBE 1. Llwydcoed (Gary Davies)* 2. Lewis Merthyr (Gareth Pritchard)* 3. Royal Buckley Town (Mark Bousie) 4. Llanrug (Paul Hughes) 5. Blaenavon Town (Andrew Protherough-Jones) 6. Newtown Silver (Steve Edwards) 7. Crosskeys Silver (Keri Bowden) 8. RAF St. Athan Voluntary (Alan Bourne) 9. Gwaun Cae Gurwen (G.R. Davies) 10. Yynshir (Dean Evans) Best Instrumentalist: David Johnson, euphonium, Llwydcoed 3rd Section Test-piece: A Little Light Music (Philip Wilby) Adjudicator: C. Brian Buckley 1. Goodwick (Matthew Jenkins)* Congratulations to Llwydcoed from David Read 2. Treherbert and District (Craig Roberts)* 3. Tata Steel (Port Talbot) (Ceri Thomas) the band displayed consistency and flair, plus a great sound (especially in 4. Crwbin (Andrew Jones) the opening fanfare) that was unsurpassed. It will be joined in Cheltenham 5. Severn Tunnel (A. Harris) by Treherbert and District, which was the best of the rest. As soon as band 6. Newport Borough (Ivor Barnett) number one began John Golland’s Prelude, Song and Dance in the 4th Section, 7. Briton Ferry (Dr. Christian Jenkins) it was clear that there was only going to be one winner. Melingriffith 2, under 8. Ogmore Valley (A. Jones) Dewi Griffiths (Tredegar’s principal cornet), was streets ahead of the small Best Instrumentalist: Ffion Williams, soprano, Goodwick field in terms of its sound, individual and collective technique and musical 4th Section characterisation. Test-piece: Prelude, Song and Dance (John Golland) Adjudicator: C. Brian Buckley Swansea’s Brangwyn Hall possesses one of the finest acoustics for orchestras 1. Mellingriffith 2 (Dewi Griffiths)* and bands in the country. The 40 Welsh Bands are so fortunate in having this great hall at their disposal for this event. An enthralling and well-run weekend 2. Abertillery and District Youth (Dean Evans)* ended with a short concert by the brass band of the Royal Welsh College 3. Oakdale (A. Browning) of Music and Drama, conducted by Robert Childs. It was both skilful and 4. Ystradgynlais (W. White) entertaining. With so many of its players bolstering the forces of the bands in 5. Cwmbran (Andrew Lucas) the Welsh valleys, it is not surprising that the standard of performance is so Youngest Player: Ieaun Lucas, 11, Cwmbran high at the top. More concerning for the banding community of Wales at the Best Instrumentalist: John Harris, cornet, Abertillery grass roots, however, must be the lack of numbers in the 4th Section. * denotes qualification for National Finals

BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 9

BB 6-7-8-9.indd 9 22-03-2011 18:02:21 BB 10-11.indd 10 22-03-2011 17:56:36 PRODUCT NEWS Quality control the key to success of Sovereign and Prestige ranges

Buffet Crampon’s Sovereign and Prestige ranges have now been making a major impact on the brass instrument marketplace for five years since the group acquired the Besson brand in 2006, but few readers would know that one of the secrets behind their ongoing success is the fact that every single instrument produced is double or even triple tested. Speaking to British Bandsman, world-renowned cornet soloist and Besson Artist, Roger Webster, commented: “Factory quality control specialists initially test the instruments for aesthetic, mechanical and basic cosmetic excellence, which for most manufacturers would be enough, but this is not the case for Buffet Crampon, the parent company of Besson and Courtois. Here everyone is committed to producing the finest quality instruments.” Buffet Crampon engage artists such as Roger Webster, Steven Mead, David Childs and Jacques Mauger to visit the factory at least once each month to test all the instruments that come off the production line. Roger Webster continued: “I have recently been making two visits to France every month to keep up with production, each for two days at a time. There we don’t only play each instrument, checking ease of blowing, intonation and sound quality, but also carry out a further mechanical and cosmetic (finish) check, ensuring each and every instrument is ‘good enough for me to buy’.” Roger continued by saying: “The entire range has improved in quality to a point where the variation in quality between instruments is almost undetectable. Years ago, players would Antoine Beaussant have to try half a dozen instruments whilst trying to find their perfect one. Now, they are all of such a high standard in all areas that you can buy straight from the shelf. I have complete confidence in the products and the utmost respect for the highly skilled and dedicated people at Buffet Crampon.” These instruments are subject to extreme usage and, as such, Werner Duwe (Brass Production Director) and Antoine Beaussant (President of Buffet Crampon) are uncompromising in their quest for perfection. “Only the very best will do,” said Werner Duwe, adding, “Musicians deserve every chance possible to deliver their best performances. An instrument of quality that they can rely on should be, in our minds, a prerequisite. Not only should it be a beautifully finished and packaged product, but also an instrument worthy of its heritage and name. We are continually conducting research and development with materials and manufacturing techniques, and have a true aim to produce the very best instruments possible - without compromise.” Antoine Beaussant added: “Our sales and marketing team, led by Giancarlo Isoldi and Arnaud Montois, have been involved with brass instrument sales for many years and as players themselves are agreed that the musician is most important, but they must have the best equipment available. It is our quest to continue to meet these ever increasing demands.”

BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 11

BB 10-11.indd 11 22-03-2011 17:56:47 2011 REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS Redbridge makes it five-in-a-row! Rodney Newton reports from the London and Southern Counties Regional Championships

An air of eager expectation hovered over Stevenage Leisure Centre during the weekend of 19 and 20 March as the bands assembled to do battle on some of the most demanding test- pieces ever set for the Regional Championships. In the foyer of the Leisure Centre, an NHS wall poster read: ‘Give Blood’, and indeed, many of the bands must have felt that, figuratively speaking, they had done so before the Championships were over!

The biggest drama of the weekend was played out in the Gordon Craig Theatre, where Redbridge Brass under Jeremy Wise swept to a decisive victory off a number one draw, giving the band its fifth consecutive win at the London and Southern Counties Regional Championships. With an air of grim Denis Wilby (right) presents the Championship trophy to Redbridge determination, having drawn the dreaded ‘kiss- of-death’ number one slot, Jeremy Wise and the band launched into a powerful performance of from their horns and baritones in Variation XIII adjudicator Denis Wilby (no relation of the Philip Wilby’s masterpiece, Paganini Variations, as did Zone One) and, among its many fine composer) pointed out that his namesake’s that left nobody in any doubt that they meant qualities, the performance featured a sublime Paganini Variations demanded a lot of technical serious business whatever the draw might euphonium soloist who was awarded the John ability, but also conductors that could pace the have been. In a rendition that set the rafters Luckett Memorial Cup. The other soloists of the transitions between the different variations ringing, the band was on top form and, from band made thrilling contributions, particularly smoothly. Despite the dry acoustic, he revealed Lisa Brill’s first euphonium solo, it was clear that the very musical principal trombone and the that he found passages such as the tuba quartet it would be a front-runner. Each variation was eloquent flugel horn. sometimes hard to judge through a lack of dispatched with surety and conviction, Jeremy clarity. However, he praised all the bands and Wise taking a few daredevil risks at times, Wantage Silver ‘A’, under Philip Bailey, their conductors and said that there were so but ones which paid off handsomely. Control came a well-deserved third in a courageous many good performances with the standard and security were the keynotes here, with the performance with secure early variations, being very high. helter-skelter presto variations IV and VII played a stylish Variation X and Bolero and a well tightly and securely, and the Brittensesque controlled finale - and one must pay tribute The 1st Section had probably one of the biggest canon in Variation IX and the ensuing Bolero to the band’s soloists, particularly the fearless challenges of all in Hector Berlioz’s concert dispatched with brilliance and style. The lyrical soprano cornet (about the only one to achieve overture, Le Carnaval Romain in Frank Wright’s moments were played with genuine feeling anything like the pianissimo prescribed by the transcription - a work that would severely test and the big climaxes, particularly the final composer near the end of the Romanza), the many Championship Section bands with its section from Variation XVI to the end, almost rich solo euphonium and principal cornet and intricacies, deathtraps, exposed pianissimo lifting the audience out of its seats, while never trombone. In fourth place, and something of a lines and problems of balance. Prior to the descending into the crude blasting in which, ‘dark horse’, Clacton-on-Sea Co-op, under Peter announcement of the results, adjudicator, unfortunately, some bands indulged. Bassano, surprised many in the hall with is firm Duncan Beckley, stated that, having been reading, shrugging off its own ‘kiss-of-death’ involved in brass banding for a long time, he Scarcely less impressive was Zone One Brass, number two draw and impressing with a firm often requests that bands just give him the which gave a superb account, perhaps a opening, well-controlled ‘fast’ variations, aided basics of good musicianship, adding, “If you notch or two lower in sheer visceral energy, by a fine flugel horn soloist and, once more, the simply follow what it says in the score, then but one that traded measure for measure lovely euphonium playing of Lisa Brill who was you’ll get the music out of it.” In his typically with Redbridge in terms of commitment, deputising for a sick colleague. candid manner, he said that not one band understanding of the piece, outstanding among the 16 that had contested that day had technical ability and overall security. From the Although out of the top-four ‘frame’, one must been outstanding and it was no use trying to tight opening through to the majestic finale, pay tribute to the plucky players of fifth-placed ‘interpret’ a piece if a band couldn’t actually the band displayed an impressive richness Friary Guildford, who more than confirmed play the notes. He then went on to say that of sound, with a great contribution from a their status in the Championship Section (and a every single band had come to grief in the sonorous bass section from which not even the band that may become a dangerous adversary very opening section (particularly the second dry acoustic of the theatre (and the fact that the in the future!). Below this, there were some bar) and, although there had been some fine sound of the basses went straight up into the very noble attempts to conquer Philip Wilby’s performances of the important solo euphonium flies) could take the bloom. Clarity and accuracy formidable piece, but the work proved far too part, many of these had been spoiled by were the hallmarks of Richard Ward’s reading elusive for most and the result was too often inadequate accompaniment, with some bands (few bands achieved such a breathtaking ppp insecurity and unwise attempts to impress unable even to maintain the tempi. Moreover, with sheer brute force alone. In his remarks, many bands seemed scared of making too large

BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 12

BB 12-13-14-15.indd 12 22-03-2011 18:09:01 2011 REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS some looseness of ensemble mitigating against a higher placing. Few of the remaining 14 bands managed to unlock the treasure store of Eric Ball’s tone-poem and many fell by the wayside in the early stages, unable to emulate the work’s title and ‘rise again’.

The 3rd Section probably thought that it was in for a fairly easy time when it first read through the opening Fanfare, the witty Clog Dance and the gentle Lady of the Fountain which comprise the first three movements of Philip Wilby’s A Little Light Music - that is, until they tried to play the whirligig tarantella of the fourth movement! This is demanding music and proved too hard a task for many, which were forced to adopt a plodding tempo in order to play the notes. However, there were three bands that stood 2nd Section success for Thundersley out from the rest and it was BAE Systems, under veteran conductor, Keith Woodger, which took a sound, with the result that they underplayed almost reverent opening, the band played the top prize after a most impressive account the upper dynamics. These things, he said, were with just the right amount of tension and that gave adjudicator, Major Paul Norley, an basic matters. displayed tightness of ensemble and secure easy winner. However, he remarked afterwards In his view, however, it was Haverhill Silver soloists, especially the principal cornet and solo that he took the greatest care in placing the under Mark Ager that had come closest to his euphonium. While encouraging his players other bands, since many of the performances ideal of how this piece should sound. It was a to bring out all the drama, Mr. Tighe never were among the best that he had encountered performance notable for its security, the sweet let them spoil the picture by over-blowing or in his adjudicating duties around the country sound of its solo euphonium and the superb playing with coarseness in the big climaxes. (a feather in the cap for the region indeed!). cornet playing of former Tottenham Citadel This reading was one of refinement and was Second-placed Hangleton played off a very stalwart, Keith Hutchinson, who received the rewarded accordingly with first place. early number two draw, but as with Redbridge, Derek Stillwell (Luton Band) Memorial Trophy In second place, Northfleet Brass, under the the ‘kiss-of-death’ held no terrors for the players for best 1st Section cornet. ubiquitous Melvin White (he conducted in and the Grim Reaper was firmly banished from the 1st and Championship sections as well) the contest hall with a confident reading. In Following on in close pursuit came East gave an impressive account which preceded third place, Tadley Concert Brass evidently London Brass under Jayne Murrill, which gave Thundersley’s performance and again displayed impressed Major Norley (I was unable to hear a spirited account of the piece, never letting security, meaning and tension of the right sort the band since my presence was required at the the momentum flag for an instant, while in with fine solo cornet and euphonium playing end of the 4th Section contest), while fourth- third place came a delighted Bedford Town and a good rhythmic drive in the allegro placed Battle Town, which I did manage to hear, Band which gave a reading notable for its marcato section. Like Stephen Tighe, he held certainly impressed me with its solid fanfares security and control. In fourth place came Jersey his players’ enthusiasm in check and the big and bright tempi, all under the firm control of Premier Brass, which must have felt its long moments were notable for their musicianship Jon Penton. The bands lower in the table too journey more than worthwhile as it impressed and restraint. Becontree Brass gave a similar often suffered from a lack of character in their with a fine solo euphonium and a confident musicianly account of the piece to gain third playing, but Hemel Hempstead at least took the performance. Further down the list, many bands place, with lively playing in the animated whirlwind tarantella up to tempo and improved found the difficulties beyond them, though sections and only a few technical shortcomings on its placings of the last two years. most had some points in their favour, be it firm detracting from an otherwise pleasing reading. control or a good sense of rhythm. Fourth placed Chinnor Silver suffered from a The 4th Section test-piece - Prelude, Song The 2nd Section was faced with no less of a rather early (number four) draw and the band and Dance by the much-missed John Golland challenge than Eric Ball’s well-known Resurgam, took a little while to get into its stride, with - perhaps didn’t present as much of a stiff which enjoys the status of being something of a brass band classic. In his remarks, adjudicator, Denis Wilby, said that the selection of Resurgam as the 2nd Section test-piece certainly raised a few eyebrows and, although playing techniques had advanced since the days when he first played the piece, it still remained a challenge (“We can all play the notes, but can we find the music?” he asked). He stated that many of the bands sounded terrified of the piece, holding back the upper dynamics, thus robbing the work of its essential drama and meaning, and trying to play the softer passages too quietly. Furthermore, there was a distinct lack of warmth about some of the playing, many bands sounding cold and lacking in expression. However, one band to which the above complaints did not apply was Thundersley Brass under the experienced direction of Stephen Tighe. From the tender, BAE Systems - winner of Section 3 Pictures: SKM Photography

BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 13

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BB 12-13-14-15.indd 14 22-03-2011 18:09:12 2011 REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

Duncan Beckley addresses the audience 4th Section winner - LGB Brass

challenge as the test-pieces of the upper 8. Betteshanger Colliery Brass (D. Cutting) sections, but it still needed to be played Full results from Stevenage 9. Grimsdyke Brass (S. Broughall) idiomatically and not every band achieved this. Championship Section: 10. Denham Hendon Brass (G. Davies) 11. St Sebastian Wokingham (L. Woodward) In his remarks, adjudicator Duncan Beckley Test-piece: Paganini Variations (Philip Wilby) 12. Tilbury (A. Duguid) announced that he had really enjoyed the Adjudicator: Denis Wilby 13. Fulham (S. Jones) playing of the 4h Section and, having worked 1. Redbridge Brass (J. Wise) * 14. Colchester (P. Ivey) on the piece with a number of bands recently, 2. Zone One Brass (R. Ward) * 15. Chinnor Silver (D. Pegram) he understood the pitfalls. However, with the 3. Wantage Silver (P. Bailey) 16. Stantonbury Brass (E. Keeley) exception of one band, he said that it was 4. Clacton-on-Sea Co-operative (P. Bassano) 17. Epping Forest (D. Desmond) inconsistency that let so many performances 5. Friary Guildford (C. King) 18. Waterbeach Brass (J. Utting) down. He congratulated all the solo cornet 6. Medway (M. White) 3rd Section: players and commiserated with their colleagues 7. Regent Brass (A. Duguid) Test-piece: A Little Light Music (Philip Wilby) on soprano, since they had what was probably 8. Sandhurst Silver (I. McElligott) Adjudicator: Major Paul Norley the hardest job to do. However, he stated 9. Aveley and Newham (N. Taken) 1. BAE Systems (K. Woodger)* that one band gave him everything for which 10. Norfolk Brass (D. Stowell) 2. Hangleton (R. Baker)* he was looking and that turned out to be 11. City of Cambridge (S. Phillips) 3. Chalgrove (T. Brotherhood) LGB Brass which, under the baton of Ian 12. Milton Keynes Brass (P. Fensom) 4. Battle Town (J. Penton) Stewart, turned in a performance notable for 1st Section 5. Wantage Silver B (D. Dullforce) its disciplined ensemble playing and secure Test-piece: Le Carnaval Romain (Hector 6. Watford (R. Graves) tuning. Indeed, it didn’t sound like a 4th Berlioz arr. Frank Wright) 7. Crystal Palace (M. Gray) Section band at all and one imagines that it Adjudicator: Duncan Beckley 8. Hemel Hempstead (D. Klein) will soon be a section higher again. In second 1. Haverhill (M. Ager)* 9. Cold Ash Brass (S. Sizeland) place, Harwich RBL under Antony Sanders 2. East London Brass (J. Murrill)* 10. Hitchin Town (C. Patterson) produced a good quality of sound right from 3. Bedford Town (A. Kershaw)* 11. Tadley Concert Brass (P. Chapman) the start, while third-placed Bradwell Silver 4. Jersey Premier Brass (T. Pritchard) 12. Woodbridge Excelsior (C. Lewis) under Brian Keech gave a solid account of the 5. Kidlington Concert Brass (D. Wilson) 13. Jubilee Brass (Oxford) (C. Sadler) Prelude with a secure solo cornet in the Song 6. Egham (G. Green) 4th Section and a tidy Dance. I was unable to hear fourth- 7. Staines Brass (M. White) Test-piece: Prelude, Song and Dance (John placed Amersham, being occupied elsewhere, 8. Horsham Borough (L. Cole) Golland) but I certainly heard MK Development Band 9. Soham Comrades (K. Schroeter) Adjudicator: Duncan Beckley which played from a number one draw and, 10. Alder Valley Brass (R. Burke) 1. L.G.B. Brass (I. Stewart)* undaunted like Redbridge, gave an account 11. Ipswich & Norwich Co-op (G. Chambers) 2. Harwich R.B.L (A. Sanders)* featuring an impressively secure trombone 12. Cawston (L. Sharpe) 3. Bradwell Silver (B. Keech) section. Further down the results table, as 13. Epsom and Ewell Silver (T. Howard) 4. Amersham (P. Fisher) Mr. Beckley observed, the performances were 14. Fairlop Brass (K. Jordan) 5. M.K. Development (D. Johnston) a mixture of the good and the not so good. 15. St Alban’s City (P. Littlemore) 6. Bletchington Silver (N. Hall) However all the bands seemed to enjoy playing 16. Yiewsley and West Drayton (C. Cole) 7. Great Yarmouth Brass (C. Swaep) John Golland’s attractive suite as much as the Best Soloist: Keith Hutchinson, cornet, Haverhill 8. Letchworth Garden City (T. Welch) audience enjoyed listening to it. 2nd Section 9. Cottenham (P. Mackley) The contest, managed with exemplary Test Piece: Resurgam (Eric Ball) 10. E.P.B. (M. Turner) efficiency by David Hobbs and his team, ran like Adjudicator: Denis Wilby 11. Snowdown Colliery (K. Twyman) clockwork, with little time spent in changing 1. Thundersley (S. Tighe)* 12. Royston Band (S. Earley) between bands thanks to the participation of a 2. Northfleet Brass (M. White)* 13. City of Oxford Silver (R. Fleming) team from Adrian Evans’ Ev-entz organisation, 3. Becontree Brass (A. Cooke)* 14. Kings Lynn Town (S. Ingham) hirers of the heavy percussion instruments. For 4. Littleport Brass (N. Bramley) 15. Cobham (D. Ruel) many reasons, I think that the 2011 London 5. Chichester City (R. Hunt) 16. Charles Church Camberley (R. Cherry) and Southern Counties ‘Regionals’ will be 6. Hungerford Town (T. Crouter) * denotes qualification for National Finals remembered for some years to come. 7. Ware Brass (P. Littlemore)

BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 15

BB 12-13-14-15.indd 15 22-03-2011 18:09:20 BRASS EDUCATION The Henley Review o Governme

Roy Terry begins BB’s annual analysis are addressed and that public funding is used generally accepted that after just one year of of aspects of musical education with his to secure Government priorities - that every free tuition (and in some areas that has already analysis of the recent Henley Review, which child should experience a rounded cultural been reduced just one term) too many young could have a major effect on the future of education, including the opportunity to learn people fail to continue the journey through to the sector in the UK. a musical instrument and sing.’ The review a higher level. It’s been pointed out that one of took place within a wider context of the the ways of tackling disadvantage is to provide To the relief of the music education Brown Review of tuition fees, cuts for music in pupils with places to practise. community and the astonishment of others, universities and conservatoires, and uncertainty The Government has left open its response to not only is the funding of music services to as to whether music will remain part of the Henley’s recommendation that music should be preserved, it is to be protected so that it National Curriculum. remain a statutory requirement as part of the cannot be raided. National Curriculum, pending the outcome Funding of £82.5 million is being allocated Music for all of the current consultation on what form the to local authority music services for the year Accepting the view that music education National Curriculum should have in the future. 2011-2012. The government claims that in England is ‘good in places, but distinctly Recommendation 5, which states that music no local authority should face a cut in its patchy’, Henley identified the set task as being should continue to be offered at Key Stage allocation of more than ten percent. ‘to eradicate the patchiness and bring music 4 and beyond, has also been referred to education everywhere in England up to a the National Curriculum review, which will It is said that there are some within local universally high standard.’ consider how the space for students to pursue authorities who simply do not believe it, The coalition government has agreed with qualifications in music can be extended. There and there is anecdotal evidence that some Henley (Recommendation 3) that all children is concern that this might mean holding classes councillors did not even know that Darren in Key Stage 2 should have the opportunity outside the timetable. It seems odd that, having Henley had been commissioned to produce a to learn an instrument through a year of free recognised music as ‘an enriching and valuable review of music education. whole class ensemble teaching under the Wider academic subject,’ Michael Gove should have Given the coalition government’s ‘localism’ Opportunities scheme. Support is promised for omitted music from the subjects included in agenda and its antipathy to ring-fenced the coming year, but more is to be said ‘in due the so-called ‘English baccalaureate’. He totally funding, the decision appears to be counter- course’ about the extent to which government ignores Henley’s point that its omission will lead intuitive. Taking counter-intuitiveness even will expect music education to be delivered to its devaluation. further, a government committed to putting through public funding or from other sources. more and more control in the hands of local In response to Recommendation 4, there is a A National Plan? people has made a commitment to producing timely reminder from government that schools Henley sees a National Plan as the only way a National Plan for Music Education. The plan and local authorities are expected to have of tackling the patchiness in the quantity and would identify what aspects of music education a policy for waiving or reducing charges for quality of music education across different need to be protected by central government tuition for families on low income. However, it parts of the country (the banding community funding. All other aspects of music education remains unclear as to how this requirement will is well aware of the disadvantage the UK faces funding would be under the control of schools, be policed - government cannot simply state in competing with countries like Norway with a which would be accountable via OFSTED and what should be done and then fail to provide highly developed national system). In line with the local community. mechanisms for ensuring it actually happens. Recommendation 10, both the Department Despite this clear decision, uncertainty reigns in Henley makes an important point about of Education and the Department of Culture, many parts of the country. Partly in expectation progression. He observes that at present there Media and Sport have undertaken to work that the funding would end or cease to be is a good deal of focus on beginners and on with the Arts Council and key stakeholders to protected, a number of local authorities jumped those who have reached the top of the music develop a National Plan for Music Education. the gun. A survey by the Federation of Music education pyramid, but that much more needs This will include adopting a National Funding Services (FMS) showed 18 percent of local to be done to help children make the journey Formula. That may well be good news for those authorities likely to scrap their funding element from the base of the pyramid to its peak. It is in low spending areas but possibly bad news for completely, with 47 percent proposing cuts of between 10 and 50 percent (for the last few years, funding for music services has come from Henley is quite specific in what he would expect from such a National Plan: three sources - government, parents via fees • opening up a clear pathway for young people to travel as far as they are able on the route and local authorities; typically, local authorities between early years and the highest levels of specialist music schools, the national youth have provided about 10 percent of the total). ensembles and conservatoires; • in-school and out-of-school opportunities; The Review Brief • details of provision for children with special educational needs and looked after children; In summary, the brief given last September to • clear minimum requirements and Darren Henley, Managing Director of Classic • expectations placed on the schools and organisations involved; FM, was ‘to establish what is needed to make • full accountability for the use of public funds. sure inequalities in provision across the country

BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 16

BB 16-17.indd 16 22-03-2011 18:08:42 BRASS EDUCATION of Music Education and the ent response

those where current spending is higher. consolidating the three In Harmony projects in centres it is difficult to see how bands and Just as some local authorities have jumped the England for a further year, with a nevertheless orchestras will be able to function. A situation gun and made cuts to teaching staff, so the idea somewhat ambiguous (and reduced) funding may arise where the funding provided by of a National Plan may well run up against the figure of ‘up to £500K in total’. government will be used to pay teachers but other government commitment to ‘localism’ they won’t have any pupils to teach. The knock- - to personalise the issue, Michael Gove is up National Ensembles on effects are more than local. The Bedfordshire against Eric Pickles. A National Plan won’t get The National Youth Brass Band of Great Youth Orchestra has an international reputation very far if individual local authorities or schools Britain gets specific mention in the section on for excellence. Demolishing it won’t help are able to sabotage it. ‘supporting excellence at the highest level’. sustain a reputation for a ‘world class’ system of Henley recommends that, along with the other music education. Ironically Central Bedfordshire No raiding of the music budget national youth music organisations, its funding Council is a Conservative/Liberal Democrat Henley argued strongly (Recommendation 13) should continue. Government has agreed to coalition, so it is directly contradicting its for the continued ring-fencing of funding for work with the Arts Council and Youth Music to colleagues in national government. music education. He rightly sees that there determine future funding. £31.5m is also being Elsewhere, North Yorkshire and Warwickshire is no point in allocating notional funding for provided for the Music and Dance Scheme propose to end their contributions to music music education if individual head teachers can which funds the specialist music schools such as education over the next three years and jobs take it for other purposes, as happened when Chetham’s and Wells Cathedral. are in the balance in Haringey. local management of schools was introduced In contrast, a well-planned campaign saw more in the 1990s. At least Gove has agreed to the Into Teaching than 4,300 residents in Waltham Forest in East ring fencing of the £82.5m for the coming year, Taking up Recommendation 26, the London signing a petition against proposed but doubtless this is one tactical victory in Department is going to work with the charity cuts resulting in the council re-thinking an ongoing battle. Further development of a Teach First to develop ways in which ‘our best its plans. mixed-economy model is signalled by reference young musicians’ from conservatoires can to the possibility of increasing amounts of spend two years teaching in schools before What now? funding coming from ‘private sources such moving on to their performance careers. Many councils are using simplistic and populist as charities and foundations and through Investing in music educators of the future surveys to gauge ‘what the public wants’ and sponsorship from industry and philanthropists’. will take the form of working with the charity the loudest voices will prevail. When they make How realistic this would be is very much open Teach First to encourage young musicians from cuts they then justify them by saying, ‘This is to question. conservatoires to teach ‘in some of our most what you asked for’. Despite talk of a National challenging schools’. Plan, much of the real power will remain at local What is a music hub? and school level. OFSTED inspections have been Recommendation 14 re-visits an idea floated a Among other recommendations accepted are scaled back, so it is increasingly rare for the few years ago that music services, professional the idea of developing management training teaching of music to be inspected. This makes it and community music organisations should for music educators and the setting up of a relatively easy for uncommitted head teachers work together to create Music Education Hubs, national ‘kite mark’ register of music teachers. to sabotage government intentions. Even now which should receive central government Henley has now been asked to undertake a there are many schools who do not give pupils funding to deliver music education in each further review of cultural education in general their entitlement to the National Curriculum area following an open bidding process. We are to contribute to the commitment in the 2010 for music or to the one year of free tuition. promised more flesh on this idea in the National Schools White Paper to provide all children with It is increasingly being left to ‘parent power’ Plan for Music Education. ‘a broad spectrum of cultural experiences’. to make sure that schools are meeting their obligations to provide a broad and balanced Providing instruments What’s the catch? music curriculum with effective programmes for In line with Recommendation 16 there is an The FMS has warned of the irreparable damage instrumental teaching. That’s easier said than undertaking to develop a national plan for the that can be inflicted by local authorities which done, but at least there has been a very strong procurement of musical instruments to replace are making pre-emptive cuts to services. lead from national government to which local the present system whereby instruments are As an example, Central Bedfordshire proposed politicians and head teachers must pay heed. purchased on an ad hoc basis by schools and last November to withdraw its own funding This is the unequivocal statement signed by music services, or of course by parents. completely. The situation at present seems very Michael Gove and Culture Minister Ed Vaizey at confused, not least because, since the county the beginning of their response to the Review: The Venezuelan Model was divided up into unitary authorities, it has ‘Music is an enriching and valuable academic Given the impact of recent visits by young shared provision with Bedford Town Council. subject… it is vital that a quality music musicians from Venezuela, it is not surprising The latest proposal is to increase charges to education is available to all children and young that Henley suggests moving further along parents by 69 percent and to close the Saturday people across the country. It must not become the In Harmony route, perhaps through the morning music centres. Head teachers forecast the preserve of those children whose families development of a stand-alone charitable trust. that the number of young people having tuition can afford to pay for tuition and ensemble At least a commitment has been given to will plummet, and with the closure of the music opportunities.’

BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 17

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BB 18-19.indd 18 22-03-2011 17:58:41 BRASS EDUCATION Trombone superstar to headline Welsh College brass festival

In the build up to the opening of the Royal suggested that internationally acclaimed Bell award for brass composition, judging the Welsh College of Music and Drama’s (RWCMD’s) euphonium soloist and RWCMD euphonium best composition for brass quintet. £22.5 million new facilities, Head of Brass, Kevin tutor David Childs perform the UK première of The finale is on Thursday 28 April, with a Price, has created a week-long brass festival. his euphonium concerto as the culmination of Concert at Hoddinott Hall, featuring the Featuring renowned trombonist and RWCMD this celebration of brass music. premiere of Ollie and the Steamboat Jetty, International Chair of Trombone, Christian Christian Lindberg’s concerto for chamber Lindberg, it will showcase the work of the The week begins with Brass with the Champions, orchestra and euphonium, as well as department in the community and within the an initiative building on the partnership of showcasing Christian Lindberg as soloist and College, starting on Tuesday 26 April. Cory Band (RWCMD Band-in-Residence) and Dr. conductor in Sibelius’ 3rd Symphony. Prior to Robert Childs, offering young brass musicians the concert, there will be a solo recital from The festival builds on the spirit and ambition the chance to work with tutors selected trombone virtuoso, Peter Moore, the youngest of the College, bringing together brass players from Cory and musicians from the RWCMD ever winner of the BBC Young Musician of all ages and abilities and giving them Brass Band. The day will finish with a public Competition in 2008. Peter will then be joined the opportunity to work with outstanding performance, attended by Christian Lindberg. by visiting trombonists and RWCMD students professionals in a world-class venue. A great On Wednesday, Christian will be joining the working with Kevin Price and his colleagues to supporter of the College’s work, Christian panel of the RWCMD second annual Stainer and prepare a pre-concert performance.

BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 19

BB 18-19.indd 19 22-03-2011 17:58:47 PRODUCT NEWS Denis Wick launches new fibre mute

Denis Wick Products is to introduce its new and a sealed wooden base, with a sturdy fibre mute for cornet/trumpet and tenor construction. trombone at the Frankfurt Musikmesse in April. “No other mute available at this price point can approach the level of performance The idea behind the new venture is to of the new Denis Wick fibre mute,” states create a professional fibre mute at a American trumpet specialist, Richard student price. The cornet mute will have Galime. “From performing artists to band a recommended retail price of £10.99 directors, everybody that has play tested and the tenor trombone mute will be this mute was immediately taken by its priced at £15.99. They have a seamless excellent intonation and sound.” construction, a solid wooden base and a smart, black finish. Kirk Garrison, the award-winning Chicago- based cornet and trumpet player added: The cornet/trumpet mute has an excellent “There have only been a small number response. Sound and intonation are both of student-level mutes available in the superb throughout the range and the industry for a long time, and there is not dynamic response is wide, with clear-toned much quality out there. I like the slightly quiet notes and an impressive forte. The darker sound, and it is in tune! They took trombone mute has similar qualities, and a little extra time when they designed the works equally well with large-bore and corks, so they’re contoured to fit around medium-bore instruments. the end of the mute and won’t chip or fall off during the first week of use.” The mutes took more than two years to Garrison also noted how well they hold develop and have undergone extensive up to student abuse, continuing, “They trials in both the UK and the US. They have are lightweight, but really durable, and if the good intonation and excellent tone you compare it to one of the expensive that are the hallmarks of Denis Wick mutes professional mutes, there’s not that and are made from a hard fibre material much difference.”

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BB 20-21.indd 20 22-03-2011 18:03:55 BRASS EDUCATION FOSTERING THE FUTURE

BB Features editor Paul Hindmarsh looks forward to a dynamic future for the Brass Band Heritage Trust

and for the RNCM Festival of Brass, including works by Michael Ball, Kenneth Hesketh, Simon Dobson and Gavin Higgins. With funds exhausted by this largess, BBHT has ceased to be as active since 2005. However, plans are now being made for a major revival. Distingished composer and educator, Edward Gregson, has accepted an invitation to succeed the late and much missed Peter Parkes as Chairman. Dr. Roy Newsome and Roy Terry have agreed to become Vice-Presidents. With a fresh intake of Trustees joining Dr. Nicholas Childs and myself, the BBHT is setting a course for a pro-active future as an independent charity, working to support the brass band movement at large. Plans are currently being formed to develop a commissioning policy, which will further enrich the medium with fresh and emerging talent and will encourage brass bands to take up the challenge of performing new original music. The BBHT will be supporting or facilitating creative projects within the RNCM Festival of Brass. Creating opportunities to foster much needed conducting skills within the brass band community will also be addressed as an immediate objective. The Trust will also be seeking to support exceptional students with their studies through a BBHT Scholarship. These ambitious plans will require substantial In the early 1990s, when I was a member of the by the late Eric Forth MP that public and private funding and the new Trustees will be seeking to BBC Radio 3 music production department in money was there particularly for organisations explore many avenues in order to secure a level Manchester, my then boss, Trevor Green, and with a community, youth or creative emphasis. of support from within the band movement I used to talk often about ways in which the The two outcomes of this initiative were (1) the and from other sources to enable them to come creative and youth band aspects of the tradition eventual securing of Arts Council support for to fruition. Professor Gregson is confident that we both admired so much could be nurtured. a full-time Development Officer for the British the Trust can be a positive force for the future At that time, we were conscious of a lack of Federation of Brass Bands, with which the Trust well-being of the brass band community: direction. Trevor used to talk about the warring was closely and productively associated for “Whilst the word ‘heritage’ implies protecting tribes of the British brass band movement in a number of years, and (2) the acquisition of the past, this can only be done through building less than glowing terms. He knew that since substantial private and commercial funding to for the future; and here the principal aim will moving down from Glasgow to join the BBC in enable the fledging BBHT to accept an invitation be to enable a future generation of players, Manchester I had also come back to the brass from Boosey and Hawkes to take on the conductors, and composers, to make a lasting band community, in which I had been nurtured, management of the National Youth Brass contribution to what is arguably the greatest with renewed enthusiasm, especially where Band Championships. amateur music-making movement in the UK. youth bands and repertoire were concerned. Running that event was the main focus of the Whatever that takes, the revived Trust will try to We both had identified a need for the future of BBHT work for the first few years of its existence, achieve it.” Watch this space. the brass band movement to be fostered in as working alongside the BFBB, which has now yet rather nebulous terms. Out of the blue one taken on the full operation of this marvellous Brass Band Heritage Trust day, he challenged me to find a way of making a annual celebration. During these years, the wise (Registered Charity No. 1037552) tangible difference and the Brass Band Heritage counsel of Major Peter Parkes, the BBHT’s first preserving the past – promoting the present Trust (BBHT) was the set up in 1995. Chairman, was invaluable. – fostering the future Since 2002, much of the Trust’s resources have President: Sir Andrew Davis, Vice-Presidents: Over a number of months, he and I brought been devoted to the commissioning of new Dr. Roy Newsome and Roy Terry together some of the prominent people in the repertoire and the nurturing of emerging Chairman: Professor Edward Gregson brass band scene of the time, among them creative talent. Among the Trust’s major Trustees: Dr. Nicholas Childs, Kenneth David Read, Roy Newsome and Peter Parkes. commissions, John Pickard’s Eden stands out as Crookston, Philip Harper and Visits to Westminster ensued and encouraging arguably the most prominent, although it has Paul Hindmarsh (Director) noises were made, but nothing concrete also supported a number of new commissions Contact: 07860 707780 emerged except for one enlightened comment for Lower Section and youth competitions email: [email protected]

BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 21

BB 20-21.indd 21 22-03-2011 18:04:00 COMPANY NEWS

SN Percussion Ltd. is making great progress service, which held its official launch at the of instruments that can inspire performers and in its inaugural year of providing quality Scottish Brass Band Championships in the Perth listeners. Our acquisition of some fantastic percussion instruments to hire. Sarah Naish, Concert Hall at the end of February this year, musical instruments has even excited us! Now the person behind SN Percussion, has a long and it is looking forward to a swift return to that we can offer professional level instruments history of performing and directing music this prestigious venue; it will return to Perth such as timpani and bass drum by Majestic, and in Scotland. After having gained the LLCM as the official supplier of percussion at the marimba by Adams, as well as some of the more Teaching Diploma and ALCM Performers Scottish Concert Band Festival on 2 April. Sarah unusual bells and whistles and other effects, Diploma in Timpani and Percussion from Napier Naish Commented: “We are delighted to be we are confident of our ability to provide what University in Edinburgh, she attended Lancaster providing this service for the final stage of the most people need.” She continued: “We hope University, where she studied to achieve her Scottish Concert Band Festival. The Festival that being situated close to the M8 between BMus (Hons) in Timpani, Percussion, and Theory is a fantastic event showcasing the efforts of Edinburgh and Glasgow we can make great use of Music. Since then, she has used her skills many musicians and their organisations. Many of our central location and excellent access to widely as performer with groups as diverse groups have limited resources, either in storage the motorway infrastructure. It lends excellent as the 52nd Lowland Division Band (TA) of or in financial terms. Buying bulky but delicate opportunity to be used by groups near, and the British Army, and children’s inspirational percussion might seem a risk too far, but given not quite so near, who can be confident of group, The Singing Kettle, as well as Scottish the chance to hire for a fraction of the cost, being able to source nearly anything they could championship brass bands including Whitburn, and just for the time necessary to show off want to add to their showcase event, with just Kirkintilloch, Unison Kinneil, and Newtongrange. the group’s best assets at important events, a phone call or e-mail, and an hour or two of Sarah, is also in demand as a freelance trainer might be the difference between giving a good transportation.” and conductor, and is the resident musical concert, and providing the entertainment SN percussion can be found on the Internet director of the Dunedin Wind Band, a 50-strong extravaganza of the year!” at www.snpercussion.co.uk, and contacted by community wind band based in Edinburgh. Sarah further commented: “It has been a great e-mail [email protected], or by calling SN Percussion is the new percussion hire adventure so far putting together a collection 07711 956308.

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BB 22-23.indd 22 22-03-2011 18:02:44 BRASS EDUCATION A Window on the World of Salford

by Dr. Howard J Evans

I am now in my fifth academic year since beginning my work as a lecturer at the University of Salford, and in that time, things have changed both within and without the University. The pressures from political change are already having an impact upon university life and studies, and these are set to continue over the next few years. However, within the Music Directorate at Salford, we are already responding to those challenges, rationalising programme structures, in order to maintain the important facets of what Salford has delivered in its music degree courses over past years. At the present moment, we are experiencing a high demand for places within the Music Directorate for the next academic year. The number of applicants is higher than last year and admission days for auditions and interviews have been very busy.

On arrival at Salford I worked at first under the leadership of Professor David King as Chair of Performance. My role then developed as in the delivery of a superb brass performance recipients of the long-term commitment to a Performance Fellow, taking responsibility masterclass. It was attended by a significant this aspect of tuition here at Salford. Within the for all the performance groups, including number of students and members of the last couple of weeks one of the noteworthy the Salford University Brass Band and other public, including some well-known brass events of the semester took place. The Kirklees teaching. However, at the start of this academic band personalities. Following the masterclass, Composition Competition began in 2002 and year, my appointment to the full-time post students also benefited from personal this year there were seven compositional of Performance Lecturer and Director of the instrumental tuition sessions given by David. entries. The compositions were adjudicated Classical Performance areas of study was He has an extraordinary sense of commitment by David and Graham Horsfield (Directors of confirmed. This role has allowed me to give to what is happening here at Salford, and the Kirklees Publishing Company), Stephen direction to one of the strengths of study at we continue to benefit enormously from his Davismoon (Music Directorate, Director) and Salford, namely the brass band area, and to personal involvement. Joe Duddell (BA Programme Leader), in a public continue to develop the traditions established performance given at Peel Hall by The Salford over the years by my eminent predecessors at In the current climate of funding cuts and University Brass Band. Salford. fiscal re-assessment, the University of Salford The event gives composers a distinctive continues to make a commitment to individual opportunity to hear their conceptions, The appointment of David King as Emeritus instrumental tuition. The longstandng traditon irrespective of the outcome of the competition. Professor last year was important in maintaining of inviting some of the best instrumental tutors David and Graham Horsfield described this his creative involvement within the Music to work with our students continues today. years event as ‘one of the best standards Directorate. The practical reality of that Stuart Lingard and Brian Taylor (cornet), Iwan achieved by the students so far in the association has evidenced itself this semester Williams (flugel horn), Sheona White (tenor Competition’. Each composer received detailed horn), Peter Christian (baritone), Billy Millar feedback from David and Graham with respect (euphonium), Andrea Price (percussion), Neil to their composition, its originality and Yates (jazz trumpet), and Lee Hallam (jazz suitability for publishing. This year’s winning trombone) have been well established at composer, Franner Otter, a postgraduate Salford for some years, some of them for many student studying with Professor Peter Graham, years. Changes to the team means that we have has already received an offer for her work, The recently welcomed Mark Wilkinson (cornet), Lonely Isle, to be published by the company. Brett Baker (trombone) and Les Neish (tuba) to For those wishing to study composition and this illustrious group of performers and tutors. develop their skills in this area, Salford offers a unique opportunity and platform from which For students who opt for performance to work. electives through to their final year of study, instrumental tuition is received throughout Future activities this academic year by the the three years of their degree study and Salford University Brass Band include a forms a significant part of their personal performance at the Regent Hall Lunchtime development. The list of Salford Alumni active Concert Series on Friday 15 April at 1.00pm, as performers and who maintain a high-profile and the Inaugural Vice Chancellor’s Concert on within the brass band scene is probably too Friday 11 April, 7.00pm, at Peel Hall, University long to mention, but they have all been the of Salford.

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BB 22-23.indd 23 22-03-2011 18:02:48 PRODUCT NEWS Peace of mind for all musicians

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BB 24-25-26-27.indd 24 22-03-2011 17:57:22 2011 REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS Hope springs eternal at the Dolphin Centre Mike Kilroy visits the North of England Regional Championships in Darlington

My first ever visit to the North of England good performances of this music can be given Westoe. Summing up later, Jim Davies said that Regional Brass Band Championships got me by bands at this level. Here, band after band although this was a hard piece, there would be thinking. In the past this area was a surging showed that they had the players around the sterner tests ahead and that there had been powerhouse of brass banding, but over the stand to give a decent account but, incredibly, some good playing but lapses in concentration years it has seen a decline in terms of general some conductors demonstrated a lack of at times that had cost dear. standard and band numbers. Even though attention to basic fundamentals of ensemble How would the 4th Section bands deal with the the region cannot boast the quantity of bands and tuning and an inability to create a musical difficult stylistic challenges of John Golland’s that some other areas can, the development performance out of this score. Surely it is challenging Prelude, Song and Dance? This piece of individual talent and quality in this region neither beyond the realms of possibility to listen comprises of three movements inspired by has been quite exceptional. Take cornet to some early recordings of this music, nor the totally different musical influences. The first is all players for example. Norman Ashcroft, Maurice capability of conductors to present to their pomp and ceremony, the second ‘gymnopedic’ Murphy, James Shepherd and Alan Morrison players a well thought out and cohesive vision (if that’s a word!) in character and the last cheek, all developed their incredible talents here and of what is required. Having said that, one band wit and humour dressed in lederhosen. With there are many individuals currently playing gave an excellent performance of the piece just eight bands taking part, would low quantity at the very highest levels of brass banding that in comparison to the competition was mean low quality? Absolutely not! This was a who have benefited from this incubator of simply outstanding. Catterick Band. directed by competition of true excellence from beginning outstanding talent. Two questions came into Brendan Wheeler, was the clear winner. Joining to end, with not one band giving less than a my mind driving up the A1. Will I hear evidence it in Cheltenham will be Cockerton Silver, the good performance. Conductors took differing of the continuing production of potential best of the rest. In summing up David Lancaster approaches and the listeners were treated to a high quality individuals? Will there be any said that the winner was “ahead by a country range of interpretations, all of which had merit evidence to suggest that these may be in mile - outstanding”. David encouraged bands to and interest. By the end of this competition, enough abundance to create bands a sustained think particularly about tuning and ensemble - five bands could have represented the area challenge across the sections in the future? At sound advice indeed if we are to enjoy the best with honour, but unfortunately only two could 1.00pm on the dot on Saturday I was about to of the undoubted talent that is available but on go through. Band number one, Kingsway find out. this day underutilised. Printers Cleethorpes, gave an excellent musical performance that held on at the top until the The vast sports hall was sparsely populated with Sunday morning brought the 1st Section penultimate band to play, NASUWT Riverside just 55 people in the audience and with only six bands to the fray at 10.00am. Just five bands Concert, gave a terrific performance that bands competing in the 3rd Section, I worried battled it out to go to Cheltenham in this brought the house down. Inspired by the that the standard might be compromised, but section; would the adage be proven correct superb Bryan Tait, this young crew turned in a my worries proved unfounded. Philip Wilby’s A that the best things come in small packages? performance befitting a higher section band. Little Light Music needs real musicianship from Westoe got proceedings underway with a good Regional Secretary, Alan Hope, must have been all participants to create the differing musical account that could have been much better with a proud man as no less than two of his children styles and overcome the technical challenges more attention to the dynamics. Wansbeck’s and four of his grandchildren played in this contained within this music. Ripon City gave a Ashington Colliery did fairly well, but the band. Announcing the results from stage he well-shaped performance of quality, setting a ensemble suffered occasionally under the kept his cool, the consummate professional benchmark that would be hard to beat, with the burden of the technical challenges. Shepherd as always, even though his chest must have cornet, flugel and soprano in sparkling form. Building Group got off to a cracking start, been bursting with pride. Speaking afterwards, East Riding of Yorkshire featured good soloists followed by a good solo from the euphonium, David Lancaster said that the bands did well and delivered an excellent reading that would but lapses of concentration in the allegro cost technically, although tempos did fluctuate. For challenge for sure. Last to play, York Railway this performance dear. Murton Colliery had him, one band stood out but all had merit. Institute, gave a well-controlled and thoughtful a day to forget with not much going its way, performance of this difficult work, again but here’s to better things ahead, and finally So it was time for the big guns to take the stage featuring top class soloists. The other bands all Harrogate gave a performance for which the in the most open contest in this area for years (I gave creditable performances, but in the event conductor, Craig Ratcliffe, must take credit in was told), with new blood and old heads ready could not quite match the quality of these ensuring that no one was left in doubt that to challenge the status quo. I waited, breath three. Adjudicator, Jim Davies, summarised he understood the test-piece; supported by baited. Ten bands in the Championship Section by saying that there were three very good the band which played with confidence and made this the largest section of the weekend. performances, with one being outstanding. purpose. Harrogate was duly awarded first place In the event, five performances were very good York Railway Institute, led by Gordon Eddison, and enjoyed a clean sweep of the other prizes with two of those outstanding. Lockwood was declared the winner and joining it at the (bass, percussion and trombone). Strangely Brass gave a technically good performance, Final will be Ripon City. These bands provided enough, there was no prize to be given for the featuring some very fine individual efforts but a high-quality start to the weekend, but where euphonium soloist, but at the instigation of lost balance towards the end. EYMS, led by was the audience? adjudicator, Jim Davies, the organisers decided Alan Morrison, presented a broad picture of to give a special award sponsored by First the piece in which the subtle and some of the Resurgam has proved to be an inspired choice Brass Managing Director, Shawn Pagington, not so subtle changes in mood were shown for the ‘Area’ contests this year. A tough test, a euphonium player himself who knows the very well. The band played with energy and yes, an insurmountable one, no. The best challenges of this particular solo only too well. drive juxtaposed with moments of calm. Good 2nd section bands have proved that, with The winner of this award? The euphonium soloists were in abundance with the solo the right musical approach and preparation, of Harrogate Band! Joining it at the Final is cornet outstanding. It wasn’t without its flaws,

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BB 24-25-26-27.indd 25 22-03-2011 17:57:23 2011 REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

NASUWT Riverside Concert Band celebrates Section 4 success Brendan Wheeler - winning conductor in the 2nd Section

uncertainty in ensemble now and again and featuring a fine bass section. The performance out the top four, with the top two having that some uncomfortable moments in the lower was exciting and innovative, but there were something extra. Deciding between them was dynamics at times possibly leaving the door also some moments of insecurity in places. With a problem, though. In the end, he had opted ajar, but it would take a very good band to beat the audience still catching its breath, Felling for the little things that made the difference it. Would the next band on be the one to do followed next and did well, with a very musical - the X factor. As it turned out, he preferred just that? Reg Vardy, conducted by Nicholas reading featuring an outstanding flugel soloist Reg Vardy s innovation and sound over EYMS’s Childs, got of to a high impact start (the young in 15 year-old Kate Malcolm; watch out for her classic approach, and both bands will head man on the bass drum had me sitting bolt in the future. off to London hoping to build on what was an upright in my chair, I’ll tell you!). A nicely paced NASUWT Riverside got off to a great start, but impressive and closely fought competition. theme followed, but some completely different the dynamic range was not wide enough to The next three bands all look set to challenge approaches to the transition passages were in cope with the many nuances contained within harder in the future, with quality individuals by evidence. This was not going to be a risk-free this test. The two best performances stood out, the boat load within their ranks. The fact that approach. The conductor pushed the band the burning question being which of these very at least half the bands had given very good hard to get the performance he wanted and different performances would the adjudicator shows bodes well for the future. The standard the band worked and concentrated hard to prefer? One could make a compelling argument of soloists, sopranos, cornets and flugel horns in deliver. The band generally coped well and the for either. Jim Davies said that all ten bands particular, was very impressive. sound it produced was of the highest quality, had done well, but had no problem picking So were my questions answered? Did I

15 year-old Kate Malcolm of Felling performing the flugel horn solo in Paganini Reg Vardy celebrates yet another North of England success

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BB 24-25-26-27.indd 26 22-03-2011 17:57:45 2011 REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS Full results from Darlington Championship Section Test-piece: Paganini Variations (Philip Wilby) Adjudicator: Jim Davies 1. Reg Vardy (Dr. Nicholas Childs)* 2. East Yorkshire Motor Services (Alan Morrison)* 3. Felling (Stephen Malcolm) 4. NASUWT Riverside (Ian Robinson) 5. Lockwood (John Roberts) 6. Fishburn (John Ward) 7. Easington Colliery (David Hirst) 8. Barton Town (Richard Evans) 9. Kirkbymoorside (John Woodward) 10. GT Group Peterlee (Norman Law) Best Cornet: Neil Day, EYMS Best Soprano: Lockwood Best Euphonium: EYMS Best Bass Section: Reg Vardy Best Percussion Section: Reg Vardy 1st Section Test-piece: Le Carnaval Romain (Hector Berlioz arr. Frank Wright) Adjudicator: Jim Davies n Winning soloists, Neil Johnson (euphonium) and Neil Day (cornet) of EYMS 1. Harrogate (Craig Ratcliffe)* 2. Westoe (Jason Smith)* 3. Wansbeck’s Ashington Colliery (Rob Bushnell) hear evidence of the continuing The only thing missing this weekend 4. Shepherd Building Group (Richard Wilton) production of potential high quality was the audience. This is a seriously 5. Murton Colliery (Denis Noble) individuals? I most certainly did. good contest, well organised, located Best Bass Section: Harrogate Across all the sections this was in in a beautiful part of the world Best Euphonium: Harrogate evidence, with some extremely within a venue that has space and Best Trombone: Harrogate promising players on all instruments. facilities for all. So, all you brass band Best Percussion Section: Harrogate Will there be any evidence to supporters out there, do yourselves 2nd Section suggest that these may be in enough a favour and get yourselves to Test-piece: Resurgam (Eric Ball) abundance to create bands that will Darlington next year to support Adjudicator: David Lancaster mount a sustained challenge across these excellent bands, enjoy the high 1. Catterick Brass (Brenden Wheeler)* the sections in the future? Absolutely, quality contest that this undoubtedly 2. Cockerton Prize Silver (George Nicklin)* if these players continue to be is and if my experience is anything 3. South Milford Brass (Martin Hall) encouraged and nurtured within the to go by, there’ll be a warm welcome 4. Houghton Brass (I. Langthorne) region there is no doubt that in time waiting. Don’t take my word for it, 5. Durham Miners’ Association (Neil Davies) they will provide serious competition come and find out in person, you are 6. Northumbria Water Ellington (Jonathan Fenwick) at the major contests and that may now officially invited and hopefully 7. Ferryhill Town (S. Norris) be sooner than some may think! I’ll see you there! 8. Billingham Silver (Vaughan Evans) Best Soprano: Durham Miners Association Best Euphonium: Cockerton Best Bass Section: Catterick 3rd Section Test-piece: A Little Light Music (Philip Wilby) Adjudicator: Jim Davies 1. York Railway Institute (Gordon Eddison)* 2. Ripon City (Malcolm Dubb)* 3. East Riding of Yorkshire (D. Warley) 4. Bearpark and Esh Colliery (A. Hall) 5. Dunston Silver (John Bell) 6. Marske Brass (A Prest) Best Percussion: York Railway Institute 4th Section Test-piece: Prelude, Song and Dance (John Golland) Adjudicator: David Lancaster 1. NASUWT Riverside Concert (Bryan Tait)* 2. Kingsway Printers Cleethorpes (Steve Askew)* 3. Stanhope Silver (Steve Robson) 4. Backworth Colliery (Callum Harrison) 5. Durham Constabulary (David Hazell) 6. Swinton and District Excelsior (Nigel Sutherland) 7. Knaresborough Silver (S. Morland) 8. Trimdon Concert Brass (P. Ash) Best Cornet: Kingsway Printers Cleethorpes Best Euphonium: Stanhope Silver York Railway Institute – winner of Section 3 * denotes qualification for National Finals

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BB 24-25-26-27.indd 27 22-03-2011 17:57:57 BRASS ROOTS Jaguar (Coventry) Band has announced that it will now be known as Jaguar Land Rover Band. The band has now been associated with Jaguar Cars for the last ten years and during this time built a close working relationship with its sponsor, supporting numerous promotional and charity events throughout the country.

To align itself even further, the band has now adopted the full name of Jaguar Land Rover Band. “This name change shows the On Saturday 19 March, Test Valley Brass Thunderbirds and Breezin’ Down Broadway. The continuing working relationship Jaguar Land hosted Cambridge University Brass concert finished with an encore, Florentiner. Rover has with the band,” stated Les Ratcliffe, Band, which joined it in a concert at John Julian King, Band Manager of Test Valley Brass, Head of Community Relations. The band is an Hanson School. commented: “We have had a wonderful fun integral part of our community programme, Cambridge University Brass Band stopped off evening and made some new friends. It’s nice to know that the tradition of brass bands is alive helping to raise thousands of pounds each in Andover as part of a tour of the south of year for community groups and charities and flourishing in one of the most prominent England. The opportunity arose as Will Keen, a throughout the UK and we look forward to academic establishments in the country.” He previous member of both the Test Valley Brass expanding our work together in the future. The continued, “Test Valley Brass is very proud Youth and Senior bands, is now studying at band is a great ambassador for us and the work of the training we give to all members of the Cambridge University. we do in the community”. community as anyone of any age is welcome Kevin Lea from the band added, “It is a very The bands played to an appreciative audience, to come along and learn to play with us. We exciting period for us. We are now associated which enjoyed a fun evening of light music have an excellent education scheme and with two of the most iconic British brands and including Georgia on my Mind, performed by loan instruments to those needing them. Will we look forward to actively supporting Jaguar Louise Porter of Test Valley Brass. Cambridge’s has learnt with our Youth and Senior bands, Land Rover in the coming years. We would like programme included the theme from Batman, along with the Education Scheme and it’s just to take this opportunity to thank Jaguar Land The Floral Dance and Over the Rainbow. fantastic to see him doing so well and for him Rover for its ongoing support”. The climax of the evening saw both bands to bring his band back to Andover to perform join together to perform the theme from with us.”

Johnstone Band got all dressed up last Saturday afternoon (19th) and helped raise over £1,400 for the West of Scotland Deaf Children’s Society (WSDCS) at its Interactive Family Film and TV Theme Concert held at Pollokshaws Burgh Hall in Glasgow. The band played an action-packed programme, including music from Harry Potter, Star Wars and Pirates of the Caribbean. A spokesperson for WSDCS commented: “The musical selection and interactive nature of the concert had the children literally dancing in the aisles. It was a wonderful concert and a wonderful amount was raised for our charity. Thanks to Raymond Tennant and his great band.”

Yorkshire and National Champion, Brighouse and Rastrick The second half opened with the imposing march, Flying Eagle, followed Band, played to a full house at Rotherham Civic Theatre on Saturday by the trombone solo, Autumn Leaves, played by Chris Gomersall, fresh 19 March. The band’s Resident Musical Director, Sandy Smith, was at the from collecting the best instrumentalist award at the recent Yorkshire helm for the concert which featured several of his arrangements. Regional Championships. Sandy Smith’s arrangement of Hans Zimmer’s After a short burst of the band’s signature tune, West Riding, B&R opened theme for Angels and Demons, appropriately called 160 BPM, left the its programme, appropriately enough, with the march, The Champions, audience breathless, and in complete contrast came the traditional following with the overture from Smetana’s opera, The Bartered Bride. Scottish tune, The Bonnie Briar Bush. Solo euphonium, Steve Walsh, Principal cornet, Stuart Lingard, gave a haunting and faultless rendition played Herbert Clarke’s Carnival of Venice, which was followed by a of Marshall’s I Hear You Calling Me and the first half continued with Percy selection of music from the pen of Stan Kenton, again arranged by the Grainger’s Molly on the Shore and the mesmerising Sleep by Eric Whitacre, band’s Musical Director. arranged by Sandy Smith.

After Bach’s Fugue in G Minor and Bruce Broughton’s Harlequin, Lucy Elegy from John Ireland’s A Downland Suite was followed by Tchaikovsky’s Murphy, the band’s flugel horn player hit an historic note, becoming March Slav, concluding the official programme for the evening, but the first female soloist in B&R’s 130-year history when she played Peter the band wasn’t allowed off stage until the audience had heard The Graham’s arrangement of the Laura Lemon melody, My Ain Folk. The first Floral Dance! B&R will host its guests, Colne Valley Male Voice Choir, at half was concluded with Paul Lovatt-Cooper’s Vitae Aeternum. Huddersfield Town Hall tonight (26th).

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BB 28-29.indd 28 22-03-2011 18:06:16 BRASS ROOTS

The Canadian Staff Band of The Salvation Army (CSB) celebrated its 42nd Anniversary with a concert held at the Toronto Centre for the Arts on 5 March. The band’s special guests were the New York Staff Band (NYSB) under the leadership of Bandmaster Ron Waiksnoris. The concert also afforded us an opportunity to hear two of north America’s representatives at the International Staff Band’s upcoming celebration scheduled for June, when the eight SA Staff Bands will be in attendance. Interest was heightened with the prospect of hearing four new works, which these two fine bands will feature on their overseas visit. First up was the CSB’s première performance of young Canadian composer Marcus Venables’ exciting opener, The Gathering. Since the 1970s. It features , the old tune, Leoni (The God time, as Dorothy Gates led the chorus in her band plans to visit Holland prior to heading of Abraham Praise), which Eric Ball popularised arrangement of Heaven, a song made popular on to London, the composer employs as the in his tone poem, Exodus, but in a swing style. by the American rock band, Los Lonely Boys. central theme of the piece, the Dutch hymn Ballantine’s presens was duly acknowledged A rhythm section along with bass guitar and of thanksgiving, We Gather Together. This was by Holz and he received appreciative applause punch brass added much to the performance. followed by the CSB ‘marching in’ the visitors from the audience. We then heard the CSB in an exciting rendition to Sousa’s classic, The Stars and Stripes Forever. of Kevin Norbury’s Rhapsody on a Theme by The NYSB was given a warm reception by In advance of the concert, I was drawn to Purcell. Taking as its inspiration Purcell’s theme their Canadian cousins, and when seated, took the next work on the programme, Kenneth made famous by Benjamin Britten in his popular over the march from the CSB from the trio on. Downie’s The Hope of Glory. We have come work, The Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra, Cleverly done! to expect music of a high standard from this Norbury takes band and audience through a composer and this work did not disappoint. wild ride of exciting variations, finishing up with The visitors had brought along the Challenging for players, but accessible to the a rumbustious dance finale. distinguished musician and author, Dr. Ron listener, the piece takes as its inspiration words Holz, and he compèred the programme, from Paul’s letter to the Colossians, Christ in Our attention was turned once again to the bringing interesting insights to the music you, the hope of Glory. Tunes featured in the NYSB for what turned out to be, for many, presented as well as reminding us of the music include Ascalon (Beautiful Saviour, Lord of the highlight of the evening. Mark Freeh’s historical association these two bands have the Nations), and in the concluding section, My up-tempo, big band arrangement of Jerome enjoyed through the years. The NYSB then Saviour’s love, features the verse, When with the Kern’s famous song, Ol Man River was a real featured a new march from Steve Bulla, ransomed in Glory, His face I at last shall see’. The show stopper, and it was obvious the band was Diamond Jubilee. Written last year for the section of this work that caught my attention, right at home in this idiom that the Americans anniversary celebrations of the famous Star though, was the central movement, in which do so well. There was an extended drum solo Lake Music Camp, Bulla has cleverly worked Downie has woven an exquisite musical in the middle that Buddy Rich would have into the march references to the original Eric tapestry around the old SA song, The Glory Song. been proud of! Kudos to kit player, Bob Jones, Ball composition, as well as Diamonds are a Also included was a suggestion of ‘contest style’ and the band. The remaining items were Girl’s Best Friend! The band’s flugel horn soloist, cadenzas for cornet, trombone, and euphonium. presented in massed band format and included Andrew Garcia, was then introduced and Although one or two hints of uncertainty were the old march, Dovercourt Citadel (Merritt), led we were treated to an emotionally charged evident in this performance, it was still one that by Bandmaster John Lam, and Olaf Ritman’s performance of Chuck Mangione’s Children of Bandmaster Waiksnoris and the band should be trombone feature, When I Survey, which uses the Sanchez. Garcia certainly captured the spirit of proud of. English folk melody, O Waley Waley, conducted the music in his playing. Next up was the home by Ron Waiksnoris. band, in a new piece by Robert Redhead, who The CSB then presented two short items. was in the audience to enjoy the première of Another new piece from Len Ballantine entitled For the final item, Dr. Ron Holz confidently his Rejoice! This overture incorporates some Ein Feste Burg (A might fortress is our God), steered the massed bands through Eric Ball’s old and new songs, finishing up with Handel’s followed by Wilfred Heaton’s newly published timeless classic, The Kingdom Triumphant, a majestic tune, Gopsal, to which we associate the arrangement of Rimsky-Korsakov’s Dance of the fitting end to an albeit long but memorable words, Rejoice, the Lord is King. The CSB followed Tumblers. The NYSB has enjoyed a reputation evening of music. on with Len Ballantine’s revised score, Abram’s through the years of being able to morph into Praise, originally composed around the late a vocal group, and it didn’t disappoint this Stan Ewing

On Friday 4 March, Solent Fellowship Band presented a charity Webber arr. Ray Steadman-Allen) and Laurie Findlay (piano) played the concert at Southampton Shirley Salvation Army Corps on behalf of the second movement of the Beethoven Sonata in C Minor. Homelessness to Opportunity Project. Major Chape was delighted to present a cheque for £480 to Matthew The concert opened with the stirring march, In the King’s Service, by Erik Smith (Development Manager, Homelessness to Opportunity Project) as Leidzen. Major Geoff Chape (Southern Divisional Headquarters), the a result of the evening’s activities. The band then played Mid all the Traffic band’s Executive Officer, welcomed everyone before offering prayer. (Len Ballantine), Swedish Festival March (G. Blomberg) and Prelude on Further band items included Let There Be Praise (arr. Barrie Gott), Memory Quem Pastores (Geoffrey Nobes). Conductor David Samuels led the band (Andrew Lloyd Webber arr. Goff Richards), Victory for Me (Wilfred Heaton), in Pastorale (Goff Richards) as a prelude to words from scripture read by Light up the Sunshine (Joy Webb, arr. Maurice Ozanne) and a horn feature, Major Smith. In conclusion, the band played The Compassionate Christ Thine Alone by James Curnow. (Dean Goffin) and The Blessing (William Himes). Further information about A number of the band’s soloists were included in the programme, the band can be found on its website at www.solentfellowshipband.co.uk including Bryan Norman (euphonium), who played My Story and Song including details of its next concert at Alton Salvation Army Corps on (Stephen Foster arr. Ray Steadman-Allen). Aubrey Ford (soprano cornet) Friday 20 May 2011. and Alex Manning (flugel horn) presented Pie Jesu from Requiem (Lloyd- Tony Unwin

BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 29

BB 28-29.indd 29 22-03-2011 18:06:18 WIRELESS BRASS PROFESSIONAL NETWORK

We take every possible precaution to ensure the accuracy of the details given below. However, we cannot be responsible for changes to stated times or running order. DUNCAN A. BECKLEY. BA. Conductor, Band Trainer, Adjudicator. DAVID HIRST. Conductor and Adjudicator. Thursday 31 March, 2230-2300. BBC Radio 2 26 Ruskin Avenue, Wrenthorpe, Wakefield The Cottage, Main Street, Milton, Newark, Nottinghamshire. Listen to the Band. Peter Parkes’ recent death has robbed the band world WF1 2BD (MOB) 07973 389707 Tel. 01777 872339 Fax 01777 872852 of one its most respected conductors and favourite characters. He had Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] unrivalled success with Black Dyke Mills and Whitburn bands, and recorded some of the most successful brass band albums to date. Affectionately known as ‘The Major’, Peter Parkes’ life and music making is celebrated in JOHN BERRYMAN. ALCM, LTCL, Conductor, Adjudicator. ALAN JENKIN. B.Sc., LTCL, BBCM, Cert. Educ., Conductor, Adjudicator. this tribute programme presented by Frank Renton, with cornetist, Phillip 12 Beaufort Drive, Barton Seagrave, Kettering, Northants. NN15 6SF 4 Beauchamp Close, Neath Hill, Milton Keynes, Bucks MK14 6HZ. McCann, and former Whitburn player and now Editor of British Bandsman, Tel. (01536) 722991. Tel/Fax. (01908) 604818 (Home), 0845 200 0096 (Music Centre) Kenneth Crookston. 07901 552235 (Mobile), Email [email protected] Listen to the Band is available all week via Radio 2’s website at NICLAS BLIXT. Music Director, www.bbc.co.uk/radio2. Click on the playback section to hear the show, on Band of the Swedish Home Guards, Uppsala TERRY JOHNS. A.R.A.M. Composer/Conductor/Adjudicator demand, for a week following transmission. Also available on the BBC iPlayer Ingvarsgatan 28, Uppsala 55/6 Waterfront Avenue Edinburgh EH5 1JD by selecting Radio 2. Telephone home: 46018267613 Email: [email protected] Mobile: 07777603675 World of Brass Radio. John Maines introduces a weekly one-hour Email: [email protected] programme of the best of international banding. Commencing on Fridays, Website: www.niclasblixt.info STEWART LEWINS, BA (HONS) Conductor the rolling programme of the most recent two shows can be accessed 74 Southampton Street, READING 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 52 weeks of the year on www.worldofbrass.com (then click on the WOB Radio link) or MALCOLM BROWNBILL. Band Tutor, Conductor, and Adjudicator. Telephone mobile: 07786694491 www.worldofbrass.com/wobradio 49 Pike House Road, Eccleston, St. Helens, Merseyside. WA10 5JZ. Email: [email protected] This week’s programme includes: Household Troops Band of The Salvation Tel. (01744) 28642. Army (John Mott): True Courage (Norman Bearcroft); Black Dyke (Dr. ALAN R. LEWIS. B.Phil, LTCL. Website: arlmusic.com Nicholas Childs): Four Cornish Dances (Malcolm Arnold); Ratby Co-operative (Michael Fowles): Violin Concerto (2nd Movement) (Mendelssohn – C. BRIAN BUCKLEY. C.Chem., FTCL, LTCL, ALCM, Conductor, Adjudicator, Akay Lodge, Sedbergh, Cumbria, LA10 5SH. trombone soloist: Brett Baker); Fairey (Simon Stonehouse): The Trolley Band Teacher. ‘Egmont’, 81 Gabalfa Road, Sketty, Swansea, Tel: (015396) 22230 (w) Song (Ralph Blane); Stanshawe (Walter Hargreaves): Variations on a Ninth West Glamorgan SA2 8ND. Tel. (01792) 205896. (Gilbert Vinter); Foden’s (Michael Fowles): Innuendo (Freddie Mercury arr. STAN LIPPEATT. B.A., L.R.S.M. Conductor, Adjudicator. Peter Meechan); Pennine Brass (Ian Porthouse): Violin Concerto (Finale) (Mendelssohn – horn soloist: Laura Lea); Grimethorpe Colliery (Major Peter DOUG CLARKSON. MISM Conductor/Arranger/Composer 60, Sixth Avenue, Edwinstowe, Mansfield, Notts. NG21 9PW. Parkes): Abu Hassan (Carl Maria von Weber); New Mexico Wind Symphony: 33 Ings Mill Avenue, Clayton, West Huddersfield Tel (01623) 822672 Mobile 07875 138776 Blue Bells of Scotland (Arthur Pryor – trombone soloist: Joe Alessi); Sun Life Tel. mobile: 07872 539378 Stanshawe Reunion (Dr. Roy Newsome): French Military March (Saint Saëns Tel. work: 01484 437437 JANE LLOYD. MA FVCM, LGSM, ALCM, PGCetEd, Dip Mus. Conductor, arr. Hargreaves). Fax: 01484437436 Email: [email protected] Performer, Arranger, Teacher. Northampton & East Midlands Area. Local Radio for next week Tel: 01604 675188 Sunday 27 March, 1905-2000. Sounds of Brass. FM frequencies: Bristol BOB CHILDS. DMA, M.Mus(dist), ARCM(hons), FLCM, PGCE, Euphonium 94.9, Cornwall 95.2, Devon 103.4, Gloucestershire 104.7, Guernsey 93.2, Soloist, Conductor, Teacher. 13 Parc Plas, Blackwood, Gwent NP12 1SJ. KEITH MacDONALD. N.A.B.B.C., A.L.C.M. Conductor, Band Trainer, Jersey 88.8, Swindon 103.6, Wiltshire 104.3. Available on the Internet at 1905 British time or at any time for seven days Tel 01495 226106 (home), 07966 263881 (mobile). [email protected] Adjudicator, Author (see website). 20 North Haven, Seaham, after the broadcast. To hear the programme, access www.bbc.co.uk/devon http://www.bobchilds.co.uk/ Co. Durham SR7 0DS. Tel: 0191 581 4224 (home), 07949 947703 and click on Listen Live or Listen Again. (mobile) Email: [email protected], [email protected] DAVID DAWS. Cornet Tutor, Conductor Website: www.keithmacdonald.co.uk Phillip Hunt presents a programme of brass band recordings and news. This week’s programme includes: Foden’s Richardson (Michael Fowles): 3 Chevalier Close, Stanmore, Middlesex HA7 4YW The Black Bull (Darrol Barry); Point of Ayr (Michael Fowles): Triumphal Entry Tel. mobile: 07956844364 JOHN MAINES. Conductor, Adjudicator. of Spartacus (Kachaturian arr. Howard Snell); Ratby Co-operative (Michael Email: [email protected] 39 Alexandra Road, St. Austell, Cornwall. PL25 4QW. Fowles): Londonderry Air (trad. arr. Howard Snell), Green Bee (Tommy Mobile: 07901 528059. Website: www.johnmaines.co.uk Newsom arr. Mark Freeh - trombone soloist: Brett Baker); Co-operative Funeralcare (Michael Fowles): The Green Hornet (Al Hirt arr. Alan Morrison), DR. KENNETH DOWNIE. DMA. BA(Mus) Dunelm. Kantara, Blue Mars (James McFaddyen - cornet soloist: Jim Hayes); Foden’s Band 8 Downs Road, South Wonston, Winchester, SO21 3EU. STEVEN MEAD. Euphonium Soloist, Conductor, Adjudicator. (Michael Fowles): Hill Song (Philip Sparke), For the Love of a Princess Tel: (01962) 883031 Internet: www.kantaramusik.com 10 Old Forge Road, Fenny Drayton, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV13 6BD. (James Horner arr. Andrew Duncan), The Merry Wives of Windsor (Otto Tel/Fax: (01827) 711964, Mob. 07971 843668, Nicolai arr. Cooper). J. STUART FAWCETT. OAM, LDBBA. Conductor, Adjudicator. Email: [email protected]. Requests and comments are welcome at e-mail: [email protected] 23A Mill Moor Road, Meltham, Holmfirth, HD9 5JT. Tel: 01484 309500. PHILIP NEVILLE. MIMIT. Monday 28 March, 2100-2200. Manx Radio BRUCE FRASER. Adjudicator, Conductor, Composer. Brass Instrument Repair Technician Time for Brass. Frequencies 97.2, 89 and 103.7 FM and 1368 AM and worldwide on www.manxradio.com Lomond Music, 32 Bankton Park, Kingskettle, Fife. KY15 7PY. 74 Babington Lane, Derby Click on Listen FM or Listen AM for the programme at the time of broadcast Tel. (01337) 830974. Email: [email protected] Tel. mobile: 07790676282 or on Listen Again for a week following transmission. Tel. work: 01332290762 Ian Cottier presents a programme of brass band music and comment. MORTEN E. HANSEN. Conductor and Adjudicator. Fax: 01332290762, Email: [email protected]

Sunday afternoons – weekly. Live show at 1300-1500 BBC Radio Leeds Fjelldenden 10, Stavanger, Norway. Website: http://www.nevillebros.com and 1300-1400 on BBC Radio York. Tel 0047 9901 4386. Email: [email protected] Yorkshire Brass. David Hoyle presents a programme of brass band GRAHAM O’CONNOR. Conductor, Adjudicator, Band Trainer. recordings and listeners’ requests. COLIN HARDY. Member NABBC, Adjudicator and Conductor, 19 Rosehill, Mosborough, Sheffield S20 5PJ Listen live online at www.bbc.co.uk/radioleeds or BBC Radio Leeds FM frequencies 92.4, 95.3, or 103.9. BBC Radio York FM frequencies 95.5, 103.7 25 Thirlmere Avenue, Wyke, Bradford, W. Yorks. BD12 9DS. 0114 2514425 Mobile: 07903 310951 or 104.3. Also available on the BBC iPlayer. Tel/Fax. (01274) 674174. Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 30

BB 30-31.indd 24 22-03-2011 18:04:20 CLASSIFIED DIARY DATES

BandsBRITISH man the leading international brass magazine A list of forthcoming events that have been advertised in British Bandsman. ADVERTS INSURANCE The leading international brass band magazine Incorporating Brass MARCH Band News, British Mouthpiece and International Bandsman Brass Band 26 - Perth. Co-operative Funeralcare Band, 7.30pm, St. Leonard’s in the Fields. Insurance Services Managing Director Trevor Caffull APRIL 312 High Street, Harlington, Hayes, Middx. UB3 5BT Finance Director Beverley Phillips 9 - Kettering. Brass For Africa 2, Kettering Salvation Army Hall. Tel: 020 8759 0825. Fax: 020 8564 9063. THE ORIGINAL SCHEME Editor 9 - Slough. British Association of Christian Bands, 5.30pm, Slough Salvation Army. OFTEN COPIED—NEVER BETTERED Kenneth Crookston Underwritten by Aviva Associate Editor 16 - Derby. Black Dyke Band, 7.30pm, Assembly Rooms. Professor Philip Wilby Features Editor 23-1 May - Montreux, Switzerland. European Brass Band Festival. CDs Paul Hindmarsh MAY Contributors and consultants Dr. Robert Childs 1 - Buxton. Buxton Brass Band Festival, Pavilion Gardens. MIDLAND CD We hold one of the world’s largest selections of brass & Chris Helme Pat Herak 8 - Manchester. Great Northern Spring Brass Arts Festival, 12:00pm - Rothwell Temperance military band CDs including most BB-reviewed CDs. Order on-line at www.ukcd.net Alan Jenkins Lt. Col. Graham Jones MBE Band, 2.15pm - Yorkshire Youth Band, 4:15pm - Brighouse and Rastrick Band, 7:30pm - Gala E-mail: [email protected] Tel: 0044 (0) 121 244 4605 or 6 Mike Kilroy Concert featuring Black Dyke and Foden’s bands, Bridgewater Hall. Fax: 0044 (0) 121 680 9018 Dr. Peter Meechan Tim Mutum 17 - London. Royal Over-Seas League Final, Queen Elizabeth Hall. Rodney Newton A selection of good second-hand band and Frank Renton 20-22 - Amboise, Loire Valley, France. 17th French Open Brass Band Championship. orchestral brass instruments available. Robert Richardson For details, please telephone 07974 412269 John Stirzaker 22 - Weston-super-Mare. 43rd Own-Choice Contest. Roy Terry David Thornton 28 - Belfast. New York Staff Band, 7.30pm, Carnmoney Presbyterian Church. 2 x BBb bass Yamaha, 4-valve, £650.00. Andrew Wainwright Carl Woodman 29 - Kettering. All-England Masters International Brass Band Championship, 10:00am, the 1 x BBb bass Sovereign 994, 4-valve, offers welcomed. Also, several Eb basses, Malcolm Wood Lighthouse Theatre. contact 07974 412269 Editorial 31 - Dublin. New York Staff Band, 8.00pm, The Round Room, Mansion House. CONCERTS Telephone: 01506 882985 Fax: 01506 881596 Email: [email protected] JUNE British Association of Christian Bands, Display and classified advertising Salvation Army, Stoke Road, Slough, SL2 5BW 1 - Londonderry. New York Staff Band, 7.30pm, The Guildhall. Gregan Quick Saturday 9 April at 5.30pm, Telephone: 01933 445474 4 - London. ISB 120th anniversary. Full day event. Royal Albert Hall. Conductor Derek Smith, Email: [email protected] former B/M New York Staff Band Accounts JULY Entrance free, retiring collection. Hazel Foster Contact No: 01753 662325. Telephone: 01933 445442 31 - 6 August - Swansea. International Brass Band Summer School. Subscriptions and Trade Orders AUGUST Hazel Foster RELAX! SIT DOWN AND Telephone: 01933 445442 7-13 - Suffolk. 2011 Brass Band Summer School, Framlingham College. Typesetting and Artwork READ THE BANDSMAN! GK Graphic Design VOF Cover price: £1.25 SUBSCRIPTION RATES 12 months 6 months UK £56.00 £30.00 MUSIC FOR BRASS BAND by Trombone for Sale Europe £75.00 £45.00 JOHN LAWES S.E Shires Custom, 508 Bore, 7.5 bell, L.W. Rest of the World £115.00 £60.00 Unmarked as new. Genuine reason for sale. 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BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 31

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