Issue no. 5553 – 21 March 2009

London and Harrogate – the quest continues

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Favourites win through as ‘Regional’ marathon nears completion

BB 1.indd 1 17-03-2009 18:26:26 MAILBOX HAVE YOUR SAY Time to shake-up the music panel?

I write to agree with the point you made regarding the 4th Section in your This year, they have picked some ‘new’ composers - congratulations on write-up on the Yorkshire ‘Area’ contest. I have attended the 4th Section finally having a good idea and good intentions, but the pieces aren’t at many different ‘Areas’ over the years, and it is obvious to me that there actually ‘new’; they are, in fact, second-rate imitations of their favourite is a real problem with picking a single test-piece to suit all competitors. At composers’ style. Why try to copy Sparke, Graham, Wilby et al? They do it that level, bands may be made up of 17 players, mainly aged over 60, who best. attend rehearsals and contests for the social aspect and a fun day out. So where is the original talent? Simon Dobson and Peter Meechan are Others may boast a band full of promising youngsters, while some bands two original voices who are proven in the brass band arena, and Gavin may have only one percussionist or a depleted bass section. Why not Higgins, Lucy Pankhurst and Andy Scott seem to be composers whose cater for them all by allowing them to pick a piece that will suit them and music is fresh, exciting and original too. Anyone who has been to the make the contest own-choice. The system in place is antiquated, and a lot RNCM Festival of Brass over the last ten years or so (as I have been myself) has changed since it was put in place in the immediate post-war years. will have heard plenty of fabulous music from Meechan and Dobson This makes me wonder just how out of touch the Kapitol Music Panel especially, but, were the Kapitol Music Panel members there to listen? is. I am led to believe that Alan Hope, Richard Evans, Brian Buckley and Were they there to hear the new, fresh and exciting music being written John Maines are the people who pick these pieces and I think it is safe today? I am pretty sure that I haven’t seen any of them there in my time, to say that, while they all have their merits, they perhaps are not the and certainly not this year. right people to keep picking them. Who are they accountable to? There So, to those who are responsible for the ‘National’ and its qualification have been too many inappropriate choices in recent years, both in terms contests, please buck your ideas up. You don’t appear to know what of quality and their penchant for picking pieces by a small number of is happening in your own back garden in the 4th Section, and you are publishers. My point here is that there is no term limit on this panel, there equally impotent when it comes to picking good, challenging music. is no rotation to make sure that ideas are kept new and fresh, and this is Neil Clark reflected in the choices. Doncaster BRITISH Issue no.Bands 5525 – 6 September 2008 the leading internationalman brass magazine Issue no. 5552 – 14 March 2009

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A TRUE LIVING LEGEND

Price £1.25 Geoffrey Whitham looks back Overseas subscribers can now have the online edition at 70 years of achievement delivered direct to their desktop Convincing victory sees National title on its way back to Queensbury

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BB 2-3.indd 2 17-03-2009 18:27:07 NEWS Scottish Open to return to own-choice test-piece format

The Scottish Brass Band Association (SBBA) has announced that this year’s Scottish Open Championship, which will be held in Perth Concert Hall on 28 November, will revert to the own-choice test-piece format that it employed in 2005 and 2006. Speaking to BB on behalf of the SBBA, Peter Fraser commented: “We are very happy with the progress of the Scottish Open over the past few years, having used pieces specially written for us at the past two events in Peter Meechan’s Macbeth and Kenneth Downie’s St. Magnus. We have future plans for further commissions for the contest, but we also feel that allowing the bands the freedom to make Hugh Johnston Willie Tennant their own choice of music can bring an added dimension to the event and we are pleased to announce that this year’s contest will be in that format. In our previous own-choice events, bands and audiences have responded positively to the challenge and we are sure that the 2009 event will be no exception.” Tameside Open Friends of NYBBW Building on the growing success of the weekend since its move to Perth in 2007, SBBA is also announces line-up commissions considering the introduction of a Friday Gala new works for Concert, of which Peter Fraser added “The The organisers of the Tameside Open have Gala Concert is in the early planning stages, announced the line-up of bands, which will 2009 course and this will be a new venture for SBBA in compete at Dukinfield Town Hall from 9.30am the magnificent Perth Concert Hall. Another next Sunday (29th). highlight of the weekend will, of course, be The full line-up is: The Friends of The National Youth Brass Band our ever-expanding Youth Championships, of Wales (NYBBW) has commissioned two new which featured 21 bands last year and promises Championship Section (draw 3.00pm, start works to be featured in the band’s concert tour to be even bigger and better this time. With 4.00pm) of North Wales during the 2009 course, which these events, in addition to the Scottish Adjudicator: Duncan Beckley will be held from 18 to 24 July. Concerts will be Challenge Trophy and Shield, a great weekend’s Ashton-under-Lyne (M. Evans), Blackpool Brass held at William Aston Hall, Wrexham on 22 July, entertainment is promised for all.” (C. Larder), Mossley (D. Byers), Poulton-le-Fylde St. Asaph Cathedral on 23 July and Pritchard Any bands interested in attending should (G. Westwood), Rainford (N. Samuel). Jones Hall, Bangor on 24 July. contact Peter Fraser at [email protected]. The band will conducted by Dr. Robert Childs The SBBA has also announced that a new award 2nd Section (draw 1.00pm, start 2.00pm) and the featured soloist is Cory Band’s flugel is being introduced at this weekend’s Scottish Adjudicator: Duncan Beckley horn soloist, Joanne Childs. Championships in Dundee. Peter Fraser added: Dodworth Colliery M.W. (E. Darwin), Flixton Speaking to BB on behalf of the Friends of the “This will be the Association’s highest award and (tba), Haslingden and Helmshore (D. Holland), NYBBW, Graham Brill said: “The composers nominees should be persons who have made Middleton (M. Stringer), Skelmersdale (J. commissioned to write new solo works an outstanding contribution to brass bands Ludden), Tyldesley (R. Taylor), Oldham (Lees) (J. for flugel are Rodney Newton, a long-time in Scotland throughout their lifetime, which Collins). supporter and tutor of the band, who is writing is deserving of special recognition. Potential a concerto for flugel horn and band, while Dan recipients could be players, conductors, 3rd Section (draw 11.15am, start 12.15pm) Price, composer of New World Sketches, this composers, teachers, adjudicators or officials Adjudicator: Paul Andrews year’s 2nd Section Regional Championship test- and, due to the very special nature of the award, Boarhurst Silver (D. Ashworth), Coppull and piece, and whose recent works formed part of it will be limited to a small number of recipients Standish (A. Baker), Farnworth and Walkden (P. Cory’s winning programme at Brass in Concert, in any year.” Ashley), Stalybridge (J. Binns), Uppermill Brass will also write a new work for the instrument.” This year, the awards will be presented to Willie (A. Widdop), Trinity Girls (tba). During the recent Welsh Regional Tennant of Kirkintilloch and Hugh Johnston of Championships at Swansea, the Friends set up Dalmellington, both of whom have given over 4th Section (pre-drawn, starts 9.30am) a display to show their work and also to raise 70 years service to brass bands and have been Adjudicator: Paul Andrews funds to support the 2009 band in assisting responsible for a high level of teaching, as well Besses Boys (J. Holt), Blackley (A. Smith), Brindle financially the kitting-out of existing and as service to their respective bands. Peter Fraser (J. Smith), Carrbrook Brass (J. Smith), Darwen new members in new black polo Shirts. The concluded: “These gentlemen, both of whom are Brass (S. Hartley), Denton Brass (G. Smith), organisation is also to assist sending two of the still very active in their 80s, have made colossal Formby (L. Hough), Hazel Grove (N. Beasley), NYBBW’s members, Tim Jones (baritone) of BTM contributions to their respective bands over Littleborough Public Brass (A. Woodhead), Band and Cai Isfryn (cornet) of Black Dyke Band, almost their entire lifetimes. I think that it’s fair to Parr (Richardson Ltd.) St. Helens (R. Prescott), to represent Wales as part of the European say that neither Kirkintilloch nor Dalmellington St. John’s (Mossley) (S. Corbett), Tarleton Brass Youth Brass Band (EYBB), at the band’s course, would have achieved anything like the success (G. Bould). which runs alongside the European Brass Band they have without the dedication of Willie and Championships in Ostend from April 25 to 3 Hugh, and it is an honour for SBBA to be able to May. pay tribute to them in this manner.”

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The World’s Premier Brass Band - Grimethorpe Colliery Band presents THE BRITISH PREMIÈRE OF The story of Maria Von Trapp presented by Camilla Belsvik and The Grimethorpe Colliery Band The Sage, Gateshead - Saturday 28th March 2009 Commences at 7.30pm Box Office Telephone Number: 0191 443 4661 TICKETS £18, £15 AND £7 The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester - Sunday 29th March 2009 Commences at 6pm Box Office Telephone Number: 0161 907 9000 TICKETS £18, £15 AND £12 (CHILDREN AND OVER SIXTIES)

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BB 4-5.indd 4 17-03-2009 18:27:31 EVENTS An affair of the heart by John King

It all really began when David Hills, a retired £4,000 for the charity. The following day, the businessman from Christchurch in Hampshire, band held a masterclass for local musicians underwent major heart surgery in Southampton in nearby Highcliffe, where 60 enthusiastic General Hospital early in 1997. The operation players enjoyed group rehearsals led by band was successful and a grateful David wanted to principals, followed by a rehearsal combining find a way to show his gratitude to the medical the masterclass participants with the full Black team and the hospital in a practical way. But Dyke Band. how? And that should have been that, except, of As a young man in Berkshire, David played course, that it wasn’t! Delighted with the the flugel horn in the Sandhurst Silver Band, outcome and the whole project, David uttered an experience that had sown the seed for a those fateful words, “Let’s do it again next year,” lifelong passion for brass band music. It was and an annual institution was born with the that passion that supplied the perfect answer to launch of a series of concerts collectively known his dilemma. David decided to promote a major as The Very Best of Brass. brass band concert in the Winter Gardens, Bournemouth, then the biggest venue in the Black Dyke was again the visitor in 1999 for area, to raise money for Wessex Heartbeat, another highly successful concert, this time to a the charity connected with the Heart Unit in sell-out audience of 1,800. Once again, this was Southampton. followed by a masterclass on the next day with, Linked with that desire to help Wessex on this occasion, nearly 100 enthusiastic local Heartbeat was another reason for wanting to players in attendance, and the successful format bring the very best bands to the area. For some was set for the coming years. years, David and his wife Jilly had been in the In 2000, David decided to push the boundaries Dyke was again the visitor, was the 15th in the habit of travelling away most weekends to a little further by holding two concerts in the series, which has attracted a total of over 18,000 enjoy a band concert. Living in a part of England year. The traditional early summer date at the people to watch the bands, and has raised over that was not often blessed by a visit from a top Winter Gardens brought Grimethorpe Colliery £40,000 for Wessex Heartbeat. band, and after many weeks of suffering good to town for the concert and the following day’s Late in 2001, the local council, in its wisdom, natured mocking from their friends along the Masterclass, while in December, Williams Fairey decided to demolish the Winter Gardens lines of “Oh, you’re off to another of your silly was the visitor for a Christmas Concert at the Theatre, despite its reputation of having the band concerts,” they desperately wanted to Wessex Hall in neighbouring Poole, which was best orchestral and band acoustics on the south raise the profile of brass bands and show just the closing concert of the Wessex Brass Band coast, so the concerts changed their ‘home’ to how good the music could be. Association’s Annual Contest. the slightly smaller Pavilion Theatre. However, David and Jilly were already patrons of Black Over the years, The Very Best of Brass concerts the audiences continued to hold their numbers Dyke Band, so it was that band that they have attracted most of the world’s top brass and, in recent years, the masterclasses have approached to ask if it would take part in bands to the south coast. Black Dyke and reached a maximum of 110 players and each the venture. Black Dyke duly agreed and so Williams Fairey led the way with four visits each, year now sells out early with a waiting list! it was that, in March 1998, the concert took followed by Grimethorpe with three, and Cory, When David Hills came up with his money- place and was a roaring success, attracting an Foden’s, YBS and Brighouse and Rastrick with raising concept in 1997, he little thought he audience of over 1,200 people and raising over one visit each. Last year’s concert, when Black would be still beavering away 11 years and 16 concerts later. He and Jilly have devoted a large part of their lives in recent years working on the organisation of the concerts. Do they have any regrets? “None at all,” is David’s quick reply. “There is a lot of hard work involved, but the end result is worth every minute. I only wish we’d started a few years earlier when I had a bit more energy. We will keep organising them as long as we have the energy to do so and as long as the bands enjoy coming and the public keep supporting.” Long may The Very Best of Brass continue.

Judging by the obvious enjoyment of all the bands who have attended and the reaction of the enthusiastic audiences, David has nothing to fear on that score. This year’s concert will be at the Pavilion Theatre on Saturday 13 June, when the visiting band will be Brighouse and Rastrick, making its second appearance at the concerts. As usual, there will be a masterclass at Highcliffe School on the following day, which is already well on the way to selling out.

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BB 4-5.indd 5 17-03-2009 18:27:32 MIDLANDS REGION

Low-key victory for Desford in the Midlands by Christopher Thomas

It was in 2003 that Desford Colliery last retained most tuneful unison cornet flourishes of the to Thoresby’s best Regional finish since 2006. the Midland Regional Championship and, day, but all too soon individual slips began to It was Virtuosi GUS that took fourth position by rights, the band’s victory in Bedworth on tally up. Despite the quality of the band sound, and, from an early number two draw, Sunday should have been a reason to celebrate its solidity in this particular movement might delivered a confident if muscular reading in style, as it not only sealed the crown and a have been one of the factors that divided that occasionally seemed to suffer under the place at the Royal Albert Hall come October, but opinion in the hall, while in the Romance, the weight of the band’s own sound. Again, there also cemented its recently-formed relationship melodic lines were always sensitively shaped, were slips around the stands that cost in the with Russell Gray. but the niggling slips continued to interrupt final analysis, but there were also some worthy The fact that this year’s win had something the music’s flow. Relaxation was the quickest individual contributions, notably in the final of a hollow feel about it, however, was in part of the day and suffered in the tightness of the movement from James Fountain on principal down to the fact that most of the players ensemble at times, although Robin Taylor was cornet, a young man who continues to show had already left Bedworth Civic Hall by the eloquent in the central euphonium solo and exceptional future promise. John Berryman and time the results were announced, frustrated Russell Gray wound the movement up to an his players will have been disappointed with by the band’s performance of Salute to exciting conclusion. On a different day, the the result and it’s true that a good many in the Youth. It was a situation that contributed band could easily have paid the price for its audience had the band in the top two. to a strangely subdued response to John lapses, although, in the event, it was a victory Under Phil Pavey, Glossop Old’s status as a Slater’s announcement of the 2009 Champion. that was largely gifted as a result of other bands new arrival in the Championship Section did Subdued, that is, in contrast to the delighted not making the most of their opportunities. not seem to prevent the band from turning cheers of Newstead, which will join Desford as As runner up, Newstead will return to the in a very creditable debut to gain an equally this year’s Midland representatives in London. Albert Hall after a gap of two years, and Duncan creditable fifth place. Solid solo contributions On one level, the Championship Section Beckley has booked his second band into this were sometimes offset by moments of insecure contest at Bedworth was one of the most year’s National Finals, having taken Holme ensemble, but the band should be very pleased open in recent memory, with little consensus Silver to victory in the 2nd Section in Yorkshire. with itself for a promising debut in the top around the hall as to who was likely to emerge Second place might just have been a slight section. as the ultimate victor. Consider the reasons surprise to some in the audience, although Jaguar (Coventry) and Dave Lea were under for the lack of a popular vote, however, and it was a performance that got off to a sound considerable pressure for a top-six finish to the openness of the pre-results speculation start and progressed at a fluid tempo through avoid the very real possibility of relegation, begins to look a little less positive. The simple the Romance, a tactic that clearly paid off and ultimately succeeded in preserving its fact of the matter is that not one of the bands with Brian Buckley and Derek Broadbent. In Championship status by the finest of margins in in Bedworth succeeded in fully avoiding the common with all bands on the day, there were completing the top six places. Restrained tempi challenges of Gilbert Vinter’s first work for numerous errors that hampered progress along in the outer movements helped to restrict the brass band, and it was a failure that resulted the way, whilst the brisk tempo of Relaxation error tally, a tactic that, on this occasion, paid in a sense of some frustration amongst those threatened to derail things on a couple of off, allowing the band to fight another day hardy souls in the audience who had listened occasions. Like Desford, though, it made for as it prepares for the Grand Shield following to all 13 contenders. Brian Buckley’s comment an exciting conclusion and that sense of spirit promotion from the Senior Cup last year. during his summing up, that the challenges clearly became a key factor in the decision of At the other end of the table, the early of Vinter’s work remained “formidable” nearly the adjudicators. indications are that three bands will fall through 50 years after its composition, might just have Thoresby Colliery delivered a solid, somewhat the relegation trap door in the shape of been a gentlemanly swipe at 13 fundamentally safe account to gain third place, but it remained Jackfield, Derwent Brass and Enderby. disappointing performances. one of the performances least damaged by In the 1st Section, and in common with From the start, Desford should have been in its individual error count to the end. Sensibly Yorkshire the previous week, Graham Cole’s prime position to pounce from a favoured chosen tempi and a tender Romance that Pentacle proved to be a stern challenge that number 11 draw. The performance got off to contrasted well with the band’s weightier resulted in one exceptional performance from a promising start, with one of the crispest and approach in the outer movements, contributed Phoenix West Midlands, a band that retains

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BB 6-7.indd 6 17-03-2009 18:29:14 MIDLANDS REGION

one of the most successful Midland contesting hand to witness a remarkably assured winning A huge field of 21 bands (albeit reduced from records of recent years under the dynamic performance from the largely young players 23 last year) in the 4th Section found the direction of David Maplestone. of Shirland that was once again a credit to the demands of Frank Hughes’ The Talisman to be With many bands unable to maintain Shirland Welfare training organisation. daunting, in line with Yorkshire and the North consistency throughout their performances on With David Maplestone on soprano, last year’s West in previous weekends. Yet despite the the day, Phoenix’s mastery of both Pentacle’s 3rd Section National Champion, Wellington obvious challenges, it was pleasing to note the technical and musical challenges saw the band Telford, immediately stamped its mark on the number of impressive young soloists that could deservedly take the title and give themselves 2nd Section with a performance that was very be heard with many of the bands throughout another crack at the 1st Section National title, nearly on a par with the winner and will see the day. the band’s 11th position in the Final last year Stephen Curtis and his band join Shirland in It was Whitwell that went on to win, with the being one of the few blemishes on its recent Harrogate. Oddfellows Brass and Tintwistle band’s first 4th Section Regional victory in contest record. completed the top four, with Tintwistle nearly 50 years being dedicated to the hard Joining Phoenix in Harrogate will be a jubilant included from a number one draw for its work and effort of the players by Musical City of Coventry, freshly promoted from the 2nd creditable result. Director, David Fretwell. David Hirst and Section. Steve Cooper directed a performance Having been placed last in the band’s 3rd Derek Southcott were warm in their praise that while not error free, managed to capture Section debut last year, Cubbington Silver of the expression and detail of the band’s both the excitement of the piece as well as pulled off a remarkable turn-around this year performance, with principal cornet, David the imagination of Brian Buckley and Derek with a rousing performance of Andrew Baker’s Wheatley, and Ryan Stacey on euphonium Broadbent in the box. majestic Once and Future King that saw the being singled out. In third and fourth places respectively, Gresley band emerge as 3rd Section victor in style. With three bands qualifying for Harrogate, Colliery, directed by the experienced Stephen With conductor Gary Smallwood imaginatively Dronfield CMW and Fairfield (Buxton) turned in Shimwell, and Foresters Brass 2000, had utilising the band’s formation to emphasise assured performances, enabling both bands to moments of real quality, although in common the antiphonal effects of the first movement, look forward to a weekend in Harrogate along with Foss Dyke and Carlton in fifth and sixth Cubbington will head to Harrogate in the with Whitworth in the autumn. positions, errors mounted as the players company of a jubilant Bakewell Silver, whose A weekend of both ups and a fair few downs grappled with the work’s demands. conductor, Mark Wilcockson, had the distinction across the sections, then, but one that has As in Yorkshire the previous week, the 2nd of also steering Shirebrook M.W. (Unison) to further cemented Bedworth Civic Hall and Section contest was one of the most enjoyable third position. Cubbington’s old 4th Section Nicholas Chamberlaine College as the new of the weekend, the bands showing their sparring partner, Amington, was terrific in the spiritual homes of the Midlands Regional. We appreciation of Dan Price’s New World Sketches opening two movements but fell victim to a can only hope that 2010 sees a Championship with performances that clearly conveyed their runaway tempo in the final movement that saw Section contest that is rather more worthy of it enjoyment of the music. The composer was on it occupy fourth position in the results. than this year’s was.

Full results from Bedworth 12. Harborough (C. Groom) (9) 9. City of Birmingham (W. Belshaw) (12) 13. Langley (C. Parker) (5) 10. Avonbank (Evesham) (N. Smith) (6) Championship Section 14. Towcester Studio (H. Thomas) (1) 11. Rushden Windmill (J. Fletcher) (8) Test-piece: Salute to Youth (Gilbert Vinter) 15. Shirley (A. Green) (13) 12. Moulton ’77 (M. France) (1) Adjudicators: Derek Broadbent and C. Brian 16. Ibstock Brick Brass (K. Ferguson) (4) 13. Burbage Buxton (S. Critchlow) (9) Buckley 14. Daventry (N. Howard) (7) 2nd Section *1. Desford Colliery (R. Gray) (11) 15. Kirkby Colliery (S. Berrill) (10) *2. Newstead Brass (D. Beckley) (6) Test-piece: New World Sketches (Dan Price) 4th Section 3. Thoresby Colliery (G. Stevens) (10) Adjudicators: Colin Hardy and Chris Wormald 4. Virtuosi GUS (J. Berryman) (2) *1. Shirland (A. Dennis) (8) Test-piece: The Talisman for Brass Band (Frank 5. Glossop Old (P. Pavey) (9) *2. Wellington Telford (S. Curtis) (3) Hughes) 6. Jaguar (Coventry) (D. Lea) (4) 3. Oddfellows Brass (R. Boulter) (11) Adjudicators: David Hirst and Derek Southcott 7. Sovereign Brass (P. Parkes) (3) 4. Tintwistle (P. Denton) (1) *1. Whitwell (D. Fretwell) (17) 8. Enderby (J. Mott) (13) 5. Leicestershire Co-op (G. Jacklin) (2) *2. Dronfield (J. Davis) (11) 9. Derwent Brass (K. Leonard) (8) 6. Matlock (R. Jepson) (4) *3. Fairfield (Buxton) (C. Kitchen) (21) 10. Kibworth (J. Hudson) (12) 7. Bilton Silver (Rugby) (B. Clarke) (5) 4. Rolls Royce (Derby) (G. Cardwell) (10) 11. Ratby Co-operative (M. Fowles) (7) 8. Arrow Valley (D. Stanley) (9) 5. Ireland Colliery Chesterfield (I. Knapton) (2) 12. Staffordshire (H. Thomas) (5) 9. West Mercia Constabulary (S. Pritchard-Jones) 6. Rushden Town (P. Vine) (9) 13. Jackfield (S. Platford) (1) (6) 7. Croft Silver (I. Needham) (7) 10. Stourport (M. West) (7) 8. Thoresby Colliery Youth (C. Gent) (15) 1st Section 11. Long Eaton Silver Prize (S. Stansfield) (10) 9. Ceramic Brass (S. Churchill) (16) Test-piece: Pentacle (Graham Cole) 10. Bestwood Welfare Black Diamonds (B. Adjudicators: C. Brian Buckley and Derek Draper) (8) 3rd Section Broadbent 11. Shipston Town (H. Gibbs) (1) *1. Phoenix West Midlands (D. Maplestone) (14) Test-piece: The Once and Future King (Andrew 12. Ilkeston Brass (D. Jones) (18) *2. City of Coventry (S. Cooper) (8) Baker) 13. Ratby Co-operative Mid (G. Newman) (14) 3. Gresley Colliery (S. Shimwell) (6) Adjudicators: Colin Hardy and Chris Wormald 14. Pleasley Colliery Welfare (D. Cutting) (4) 4. Foresters Brass 2000 (P. Collins) (15) *1. Cubbington Silver (G. Smallwood) (3) 15. Trentham Brass (M. Caveney) (6) 5. Foss Dyke (A. Keegan) (10) *2. Bakewell Silver (M. Wilcockson) (13) 16. Malvern Hills and District (J. Swindells) (20) 6. Carlton Brass (W. Richie BEM) (11) 3. Shirebrook (M. Wilcockson) (2) 17. Corby Silver (G. Riseley) (19) 7. Bedworth Brass (G. Bennett) (3) 4. Amington (W. Kendrick) (14) 18. Newhall (K. Holdgate) (12) 8. Brackley and District (J. Glynn) (12) 5. Hucknall and Linby (P. Whyley) (5) 19. Melton (G. Sutton) (13) 9. Wigston (G. Sleath) (2) 6. Stamford (R. Prew) (15) 20. Market Raisen RPC (S. Askew) (5) 10. Hathern (D. Newman) (7) 7. Porthywaen (M. Parry) (4) 21. Burbage Silver (A. Ellis) (3) 11. Hopkins Blidworth (K. Steward) (16) 8. WEM Jubilee (R. Thorne) (11) * denotes qualification for ‘Finals’

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BB 6-7.indd 7 17-03-2009 18:29:15 WELSH CHAMPIONSHIPS Swansea salutes as European Ch Megan Allan reports from Swansea. Pictures courtesy of www.4barsrest.com

With only a total of 39 bands making it to the starting line at the Brangwyn Hall in Swansea this year, there was a slightly downbeat feeling to last weekend’s Regional Championships in Wales. However, despite the reduction in quantity, the quality of the qualifying performances was highly encouraging in all the five sections, topped by a Championship winning rendition of Salute to Youth from the European Champion, Cory Band, that brought the written comment from adjudicator David Read, ‘Gilbert [Vinter] would have liked this. I can pay you no higher compliment!’ Directed by Dr. Robert Childs, it was also a performance that wrestled the Regional Challenge Trophy out of the grip of reigning champion, Tredegar, directed by Ian Porthouse, which had earlier posted a high-quality defence mood, after delivering a highly emotive and to allow the complex rhythmic of the title to book a place at the Royal Albert powerful defence of the title. Ian Porthouse patterns to be heard with clarity and style. John Hall in October. drew some wonderfully-shaped music from the Hinckley’s intelligent direction of the winner Joining the two heavyweights in Kensington score, helped by fine individual contributions allowed for detail and internal balance to will be Northop from North Wales, conducted and an impressive display of ensemble security flourish, while the performance was enhanced by outstanding percussion work, which, unlike by Thomas Wyss, which beat off the challenge in the high-tempo third movement. others on the day, enhanced rather than of more fancied rivals to claim a place at the Meanwhile, Northop’s joy was unconfined, as its detracted from the colours of the score. ‘Final’ for the first time since 1996. lighter, respectful reading beat off the challenge Close on its heels came Philip Harper and The Championship Section contest took time of a robust but error-strewn performance from Tongwynlais, with a performance that perhaps to reach its climax, as Tredegar’s persuasive the much-fancied BTM, which never recovered held less overall musical poise, but was certainly musical account off a number two draw was from an opening movement bedevilled by a combination of persuasive vibrancy and a class apart until Cory played as the last insecurity. An appreciation of dynamic shading lyricism. It was also enhanced by some notable band of the day. David Read commented was especially marked in the lyrical Romance, solo contributions, especially the flugel work that he had been looking for a combination while it also allowed Thomas Wyss to bring of David James, who deservedly took the Best of interpretation and technical accuracy in subtle detail out in the third movement and Instrumentalist award. David Read succinctly the performances he heard from the ten send the North Walians to Kensington. delivered his remarks by stating that the two contenders. As in his on-stage remarks at In contrast, Jason Katsikaris would have known qualifiers had been very good indeed, while Blackpool a fortnight ago, he once again his regional luck was out again, and after his the rest had found the piece to be outside their stressed the need for bands to get both disappointment with Leyland at Blackpool, a comfort zone. aspects right from the very start of the work series of accumulated errors in the first two – the tied triplet quaver and semi-quaver movements cost BTM any hope of returning to In the 2nd Section, there was further success motif in the second bar, in fact, which has London for a third successive year. for City of Cardiff (Melingriffith), conducted become something of a bête noire for bands After these challengers, the standard fell by Gareth Ritter, which produced an wishing to impress him in the box this year. away, at times appreciably, and this quartet immensely enjoyable performance of Dan He certainly found that precision in Cory’s of performances were the only ones to really Price’s New World Sketches to head once more winning performance, which was hallmarked master a work that David Read accurately to Harrogate. Adjudicator, Alan Hope, was by trademark attention to detail allied to described as “…still a very good test.” highly complimentary about the standard of lyrical musicality – none more so than in It was disappointing to hear so many errors, performances he heard, on a piece that he felt the contributions of the band’s outstanding poorly defined dynamics and badly-chosen combined three different musical portraits in as euphonium soloist, David Childs, who won tempi from the other contenders in a contest many as a dozen musical styles. the Best Instrumentalist Prize, and the Belgian which clearly showed that Wales may boast The winner certainly drew from a rich palette virtuoso, Bert Van Thienen, on soprano, outstanding quality at the top end of its of colour, with a solid, balanced ensemble thoroughly enjoying his first experience of Championship banding tree, but still has a fair enhanced by some truly artistic solo banding in the Principality. David Read later amount of mediocrity below. contributions, the best of which came from bass remarked that he felt it was one of the best The same musical mix was to be found on trombonist, Paul Jenkins, who won the Best performances of the work he had ever heard, the Saturday, when Point of Ayr continued Instrumentalist award. and it gave the Rhondda band its 27th regional its remarkable return to contesting by taking Fellow qualifier, Deiniolen, directed by Gavin success and ensured its qualification to the the 1st Section title ahead of Tongwynlais Saynor, also rattled off a vibrantly stylised 2010 European Championship in Linz. Temperance. performance to claim the second qualification Tredegar could take some comfort from the fact In a small field of just six bands, these were the place for Harrogate, which certainly brought that it did take an exceptional performance to only two performances that mastered Pentacle to life Dan Price’s evocative and enjoyable deny it its tenth win at the contest, and will now – a work that found the four other contenders score, while third-placed Rogerstone claimed a join its rival at the 2009 ‘European’ in confident to be short of the technical security required deserved result ahead of a field of challengers,

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BB 8-9.indd 8 17-03-2009 18:28:29 WELSH CHAMPIONSHIPS Champion returns to the top

all of which emerged from the contest with bands in the section brought something for understandably varied, although the winner, merit. David Read to mull over in the box, but it was Pontypool Brass conducted by Patrick O’Leary, Ynyshir, conducted by Dean Evans, which which boasted a number of experienced On what was a highly encouraging weekend eventually claimed its place at the ‘Finals’ players, produced a performance of merit to for North Wales banding, there was a first-ever for the first time since 1999, with a robust take the title. So too fellow qualifier, Ebbw Welsh Regional success for Royal Buckley in the performance to beat off the close challenge of Vale, directed by Ceri Thomas, which qualified 3rd Section. third-placed Crosskeys. for the Harrogate ‘Finals’ for the first time in a The band’s clear cut win also marked a decade. Elsewhere, it was a somewhat sobering first regional conducting success for Black The recent concerns over the 4th Section set experience for the grass roots of Welsh banding, Dyke Band’s Composer-in-Residence and work, The Talisman by Frank Hughes, were as a number of rather despondent players percussionist, Paul Lovatt-Cooper, who directed clearly highlighted on the Sunday morning, and conductors later told BB that they would a highly effective rendition of The Once and as just seven bands struggled to produce seriously consider not returning to the contest Future King that was hallmarked by attention performances of technical and musical in 2010 if another work like this was chosen. to rhythmic detail, secure soloists and, as one security. As hard and as bravely as conductors Despite the quality, Wales needs the quantity might imagine, excellent percussion. All six and players tried, the outcomes were too.

Full results from Swansea 5. Pontardulais (Burns Pet Nutrition) (P. Jenkins) (2) Adjudicator: David Read 6. RAF St. Athan Voluntary (A. Bourne) (3) *1. Royal Buckley Town (P. Lovatt-Cooper) (5) Championship Section Best Instrumentalist: David James, flugel, *2. Ynyshir (D. Evans) (3) Test-piece: Salute to Youth (Gilbert Vinter) Tongwynlais 3. Crosskeys Silver (K. Bowden) (4) Adjudicator: David Read 4. Gwaun-Cae-Gurwen (G. Davies) (2) *1. Cory (Dr. R. Childs) (drawn 10) 2nd Section 5. Ogmore Valley Silver (I. Barnett) (1) *2. Tredegar (I. Porthouse) (2) Test-piece: New World Sketches (Dan Price) 6. Goodwick (C. Hogg) (6) *3. Northop (T. Wyss) (7) Adjudicator: Alan Hope Best Instrumentalist: Norman James, trombone, 4. BTM (J. Katsikaris) (9) *1. City of Cardiff (Melingriffith) (G. Ritter) (5) Ynyshir 5. Beaumaris (G. Evans) (6) *2. Deiniolen (G. Saynor) (8) 6. Newbridge (Celynen) (P. Holland) (8) 3. Rogerstone (J. Jones) (6) 7. Cwmaman Institute (G. O’Connor) (3) 4th Section 4. Tylorstown (G. Davies) (3) 8. Wrexham Brass (W. Ruston) (5) Test-piece: The Talisman for Brass Band (Frank 5. Newton Silver (S. Edwards) (9) 9. Burry Port Town (C. Roberts) (1) Hughes) 6. Blaenavon Town (L. Price) (10) 10. Penclawdd Brass (A. Small) (4) Adjudicator: Alan Hope 7. Lewis Merthyr (G. Pritchard) (7) *1. Pontypool Brass (P. O’Leary) (4) Best Instrumentalist: David Childs, euphonium, 8. Llanrug (P. Hughes) (2) Cory *2. Ebbw Vale (C. Thomas) (3) 9. Briton Ferry (Dr. C. Jenkins) (1) 3. Corus (Port Talbot) (C. Hogg) (5) 1st Section 10. Ammanford Town (C. John) (4) 4. Upper Rhondda (T. Davoren) (6) Best Instrumentalist: Paul Jenkins, bass trombone, Test-piece: Pentacle (Graham Cole) 5. Crwbin (R. Davies) (2) City of Cardiff Adjudicator: David Read 6. Ystradgynlais Public (P. Williams) (7) *1. Point of Ayr (J. Hinckley) (4) 7. Newport Borough (A. Hathaway) (1) *2. Tongwynlais Temperance (P. Harper) (6) 3rd Section Best Instrumentalist: Paul Jones, cornet, Ebbw Vale 3. Abergavenny Borough (G. Ritter) (5) Test-piece: The Once and Future King (Andrew Youngest player: Livia Jones, 10, Upper Rhondda 4. Markham and District (N. Seaman) (1) Baker) * denotes qualification for ‘Finals’

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BB 8-9.indd 9 17-03-2009 18:28:30 WEST OF ENGLAND REGION Camborne double marks high-quality event at Torquay By Robert Richardson

The West of England Regional Championships was a trademark Cutt performance, with every was not quite as elegant as some of the other in Torquay are always a joy to visit. A good musical element in its place and an understated contenders. Aldbourne under Melvin White standard of bands in every section, extremely sense of style that allowed the music to flow completed the top six with a solid reading helpful administrative staff and a friendly from beginning to end. Camborne had not won of the work that, like Woodfalls, did not have atmosphere amongst competitors ensures that here since 2003, and, on this form, it can be quite enough about it to challenge for a higher this region is one in which brass bands will confident of a good showing at the ‘National’ in placing. remain strong for generations to come. With October. some great choices for test-pieces, the weekend Second place went to Flowers which, after The 1st Section was won by Poole Borough was always going to see plenty of good playing some unlucky near misses here over the past under Phil Randell. Tackling Graham Cole’s and, despite some claims that certain pieces are few years, will be delighted to have secured Pentacle has been no easy task for bands unsuitable for the section to which they have the second qualifying spot for London. Under around the whole of the UK, but Poole been assigned, bands in every section here Dr. Roy Newsome, Flowers rolled back the managed to give a convincing enough account tackled their respective tests with great merit years with a classic performance of the work. of the work to satisfy the adjudicators that and fine performances were given over both Nothing was rushed and Dr. Newsome allowed they were worthy of the first qualification days of contesting. the music to breathe with relaxed tempos and spot for Harrogate. Nigel Boddice gave the One feature of this part of the country is the lovely phrasing, the band’s performance being opinion that many bands here were out of their strength visible throughout each section, augmented by some sterling solo playing. comfort zone, especially when tackling some particularly in the lower levels of the contest. It was clear from the adjudicators’ pre-results of the complex interweaving rhythms that are In many bands, especially in the 3rd and 4th speeches that they were looking for a specific such a feature of this piece, and both Poole sections, the playing members are either type of interpretation when deciding where and second-placed Sherbourne town, playing almost entirely composed of youngsters or the bands should be placed. Alan Fernie and last on the day, in the main conquered the have a 50/50 mix of youth and experience. Nigel Boddice, judging for the first time in challenges that Graham Cole’s piece set. Additionally, the younger members often take Torquay, indicated they were looking for lots of In a remarkable double for the organisation, solo or assistant principal positions, which is a space to create special musical moments and Camborne ‘B’, conducted by Alan Pope, good omen for future prosperity. consistency throughout all three movements took the honours in the 2nd section on Dan Moving to the playing itself, for Championship of the piece, particularly emphasising the need Price’s New World Sketches. With many young Section bands, Gilbert Vinter’s Salute to Youth for careful consideration of phrase endings players in the ranks, the band richly deserved once again proved a stern test for the bands and breathing at the right places during solo its victory, with a reading that combined in Torquay. There have been some flippant passages, so to allow the music to speak. excellent ensemble work with some lovely comments made that a piece written in 1961 Lydbrook, under Steve Sykes, managed to fit musical touches drawn out of the score by the may be ‘too easy’ in comparison with other in with these wishes exactly, and gained a fine conductor. Camborne had only been promoted recent, more ‘technically challenging’ works, third place. Lydbrook’s reading did not have from the 3rd section two years earlier, so the but Vinter’s work tests bands on a number of as much emotional content or excitement as future looks bright for this promising outfit. different levels. It’s no easy ride technically, and the top two bands, but there was nothing to Verwood Concert Brass was last year’s 3rd the score is structured in such a way that every quibble about regarding the playing of the Section Champion, and took second place with part must be heard with clarity and given its ensemble, which remained of a high class a performance not too far behind Camborne’s, a appropriate musical due. It is no great surprise, throughout its performance. Third place here remarkable feat for a band that was competing then, that bands which have been successful in will be a big boost in confidence for the band in the 4th Section in 2006. this year’s round of regional contests have been for the remainder of the contesting season. the ones to make full sense of the music in the Mount Charles’s performance was completely Brunel Brass became Champion in the 3rd score, and not merely the technical hurdles. It different from any of the bands placed above Section after giving a performance that was is, therefore, good to report that the standard it in the table. Being awarded fourth place, and easily identifiable as the winner. With quality of playing in Torquay on Sunday afternoon was with that, failing to recapture its crown from playing all around the stand and soprano mostly very high and made for an extremely last year, Mount Charles’s was a much more full- playing that took the breath away at some enjoyable afternoon’s listening. blooded account of the work. Thrilling it was, points, the band richly deserved its victory and the ensemble work of the band was first on The Once and Future King. Brunel, which Four bands stood out for in the contest in terms rate, unfortunately the band will not be making performed under John Winterflood, also of playing and performance quality, these a trip to London in October, as the performance entered the history books here by being the being (in playing order) Mount Charles, Flowers, was so different in character from those of the first West of England band to win the 4th then Camborne and SWT Woodfalls. Cynics may say bands placed above it and didn’t correspond 3rd sections in consecutive years. The other that these are the traditional ‘big four’ here with what the judges were looking for. qualifier from the 3rd section was Bugle Silver, anyway, but for this reporter, they just had that SWT Woodfalls and Nicholas Childs had been whose opening section of the piece was far slightly higher level of elegance and poise than tipped to snatch a qualification spot here by from coherent, but whose reading was then the other contenders in the field. Camborne, some observers before the contest, but in redeemed by some excellent solo cornet work under Garry Cutt, emerged as worthy winner the end had to be content with fifth place, and fine sounds from the middle of the band. come the announcement of the results. This after a showing of great merit, but one that One bizarre aspect of several bands’

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BB 10-11.indd 10 17-03-2009 18:29:28 WEST OF ENGLAND REGION

performances was the failure to adhere to with 19 bands taking the stage, one could be bass trombone. Downton, in second place, has the correct accidental markings in some forgiven for imagining this might have been an excellent bass section pushing the rhythm solo passages. The score is quite clear in its a rather drawn-out affair. Not so in the West along, and third-placed Test Valley gained its indication of accidentals, so blame can only of England, however, as the standard here is spot in Harrogate from a number one draw with be left with the conductors in question for this better than in many other regions. St. Breward excellent soprano and horn touches combined mistake, which adjudicator Paul Norley picked set the marker off the number six draw to claim with a full, rich sound. up on in his pre-results analysis of the 3rd the honours come results time. Tempos were Section performances. slightly quicker than marked, but the band The West of England Regional Championships Three bands from the 4th Section in this handled this with ease and also displayed some are run with great professionalism every year, region qualify for the Harrogate ‘Finals’, and excellent individual performers, especially the offering an enjoyable event for public, press and competing players. As one of the larger ‘Areas’ in the country, moving the 74 competing West of England bands through the Centre over two days is no mean feat, and the organisers must be commended for their sterling work. The Riviera Centre staff members are also unfailingly helpful, finding time to help members of the press with any queries whenever asked. Francis Calver, Chairman of the Council of the West of England Brass Band Associations, made sure at every section’s results ceremony to pay tribute to the people working behind the scenes who make the contest a success, a gesture warmly appreciated by the healthy audiences present throughout the sections.

The prize-winners here will go to their respective National Finals with great confidence after doing well, but the question regarding the Championship Section remains – when will a band from this area take the next step up and become a serious contender for major honours? Garry Cutt Dr. Roy Newsome

Full results from Torquay 13. Soundhouse Brass (G. Pumford) (5) 9. Sidmouth Town (A. Harvey) (7) 14. Woodfalls Concert Brass (S. Dunster) (6) 10. Pillowell Silver (S. Ruck) (3) 11. Bream Silver (H. Cole) (6) Championship Section 2nd Section 12. Corsham (D. Barringer) (9) Test-piece: Salute to Youth (Gilbert Vinter) Test-piece: New World Sketches (Dan Price) 13. Wincanton Silver (B. Kelloway) (13) Adjudicators: Nigel Boddice and Alan Fernie Adjudicators: Nigel Boddice and Alan Fernie 14. Torbay Brass (M. Faro) (15) *1. Camborne Town (G. Cutt) (drawn 8) *1. Camborne ‘B’ (A. Pope) (13) 15. A.W. Parker (Drybrook) (K. White) (5) *2. Flowers (Dr. R. Newsome) (5) *2. Verwood Concert Brass (D. Johnson) (4) 16. Launceston town (D. Dobson) (8) 3. Lydbrook (S. Sykes) (11) 3. Shrewton Silver (S. Lippeatt) (12) 4. Mount Charles (A. Duncan) (2) 4. Heyl Town (D. Johnston) (5) 4th Section 5. SWT Woodfalls (Dr. N. Childs) (9) 5. Filton Concert Brass (B. James) (9) Test-piece: The Talisman for Brass Band (Frank 6. Aldbourne (M. White) (10) 6. City of Bristol (C. Thomas) (6) Hughes) 7. Yeovil (D. Barringer) (7) 7. Phoenix Brass (Crewkerne) (P. Slator) (11) Adjudicators: Paul Norley and Simone Rebello 8. Helston Town (J. Hitchens) (3) 8. St. Pinnock (J. Willcock) (3) *1. St. Breward Silver (G. Lannie) (6) 9. Bournemouth Concert Brass (J. Camps) (6) 9. Bristol East and Kingswood (J. Griffin) (14) *2. Downton (R. Wright) (14) 10. St. Dennis (B. Minear) (1) 10. Cinderford (D. Lea) (7) *3. Test Valley Brass (S. Large) (1) 11. St. Keverne (J. Maines) (4) 11. Forest of Dean Brass (J. Gwynne) (1) 4. Tewkesbury Town (N. Morgan) (2) 12. Gillingham Imperial Silver (A. MacRae) (8) 5. Wilton and District Youth (C. Herbert) (9) 1st Section 13. South Molton Town (D. Marshall) (2) 6. Weymouth Concert Brass (A. Glynn) (11) Test-piece: Pentacle (Graham Cole) 14. Solent Concert (H. Garner) (10) 7. Marsfield (D. Jones) (3) Adjudicators: Nigel Boddice and Alan Fernie 8. Shanklin Town (IoW) (M. Lewis) (19) *1. Poole Borough (P. Randell) (10) 3rd Section 9. Chalford Academy (S. Tubb) (16) *2. Sherbourne Town (P. Cosh) (14) Test-piece: The Once and Future King (Andrew 10. Spinnaker Brass (D. Jones) (17) 3. St. Austell Town (G. Pritchard) (1) Baker) 11. Totnes (I. Wilkinson) (4) 4. Portishead Town (I. Dickinson) (2) Adjudicators: Paul Norley and Simone Rebello 12. Hatherleigh Silver (R. Wonnacott) (10) 5. Hyde (I. Hutchinson) (8) *1. Brunel Brass (J. Winterflood) (11) 13. Swindon Brass (F. Cowley) (7) 6. Lanner and District Silver (C. Toghill) (11) *2. Bugle Silver (D. Pope) (16) 14. Bratton Silver (M. Fricker) (13) 7. Michelmersh Silver (M. White) (3) 3. Wotton and District Silver (D. Grant) (12) 15. Porthleven Town (E. Ralph) (18) 8. Lympstone South West Telecoms (C. Fleming) (12) 4. Pendennis Brass (Falmouth) (S. Thomas) (10) 16. New Forest Brass (I. Luxford) (8) 9. Chalford (S. Tubb) (4) 5. Denmead Brass (E. Flood) (1) 17. Cheltenham Silver (D. Grant) (12) 10. Otterbourne Brass (Lt. Col. C. Davis OBE) (7) 6. Weston Brass (A. Osborne) (4) 18. Lostwithiel Town (D. Stephens) (15) 11. Swindon Pegasus Brass (P. Uzzell) (13) 7. St. Stythians (J. Burns) (2) 19. Bideford Town (R. Ashby) (5) 12. Ocean Brass (N. Grace) (9) 8. Bath Spa (D. Haywood) (14) * denotes qualification for ‘Finals’

BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 11

BB 10-11.indd 11 17-03-2009 18:29:29 BRASS ROOTS BB

On Friday 13 March, the Solent Area Campbeltown Brass, one of the UK’s most Bollin Brass is celebrating after raising £2,700 Fellowship Band made a return visit to remotely located bands, recently devised a for the National Society for the Prevention of the Lee-on-the-Solent Methodist Church. novel solution to a problem that threatened Cruelty to Children’s (NSPCC’s) Child’s Voice After a welcome from Raymond Boyes, the to upset its preparations for this weekend’s Appeal. The Macclesfield-based quintet held band included a wide variety of items in its Scottish Championships in Dundee. a series of concerts throughout Cheshire to programme including the march, Spirit of Joy Faced with the hurdle of the main A83 road raise money for some of the county’s most (H. Rive), Barrie Gott’s festival arrangement, Let through the Mull of Kintyre being closed for vulnerable children and young people, with There Be Praise, Dean Goffin’s march, Alderney, major repairs from 8pm until 6am each day, fundraising concerts at the Trafford Centre, and the spiritual, Deep River, arranged by the band’s conductor, Craig Anderson, who is Handforth Dean Retail Park, Delamere Forest, William Broughton. based in Ayr (185 miles away by road, but only Chester, the Grosvenor Centre, Macclesfield, Individual items featured the band’s principal 35 ‘as the crow flies’), would be unable to make Huddersfield, Northwich and Sutton Lane Ends. tenor horn, Callam Carter, who played Derek it for the pre-contest rehearsals. However, the Chas Reynolds, who plays bass, said: “We Jordan’s arrangement of the Rondo from good people of Campbeltown are nothing if started raising money for the NSPCC 14 years Mozart’s 4th Horn Concerto, and Alex Manning, not enterprising, and Katrina Barr was delighted ago because one of our members, Anton who contributed the flugel horn solo, Feelings, to report to BB that, during the week of the Woolford, is an educational psychologist and arranged by Derek Ashmore. Soprano cornet contest, Craig would be making the 35-mile it is a charity that is very dear to his heart. We soloist, Aubrey Ford, presented Only Love crossing by speedboat! Katrina commented: would like to thank everyone who generously (Vladimir Cosma, arr. P.H. Greenwood). The “We were faced with a real dilemma when the donated money during our concerts and we’re band also played three arrangements of well- local council announced that the only main delighted to be handing over this cheque to the known tunes, Martyn (Heaton), Mid All The route into Campbeltown would be closed at NSPCC.” Traffic (Len Ballantine) and Whiter than the Snow night, which meant that Craig would find it (William Himes). Further works presented by the impossible to do the eight-hour round trip from The money will go towards the NSPCC Child’s band included Robert Redhead’s suite, Shout his home in Ayr, where he also works during the Voice Appeal, which aims to raise £50 million Salvation, and The Blessing (William Himes). day. We were delighted, however, to receive over the next three years to enable the charity Major Derek Smith read from Scripture and the an offer from Sea Tours of Campbeltown, who to counsel 500,000 more ChildLine calls every band concluded the fund-raising concert by said they would ferry him here and back at cost year and develop online and text support playing Keith Ketteringham’s arrangement of St. price, which has given the band a tremendous services. The Appeal will also allow the NSPCC Clement. The band now looks forward to its next boost in the run-up to the contest. We did look Helpline to talk to 18,000 more adults a year concert on Friday 22 May at Portsmouth Citadel into hiring a helicopter, but that was a bit more who have concerns about a child. Salvation Army with the New Music Makers expensive, plus there was a problem with it Choir. flying over water, so this is a perfect solution.” Tony Unwin Campbeltown is arguably Britain’s most- Chas continued: “In the run-up to Christmas, we travelled contesting band, regularly making were out playing as often as four times a week, the 350-mile round trip to central Scotland to because everyone loves brass and it’s amazing compete in band, solo and quartet events, as to witness people’s generosity. Once we open well as appearances at the National Finals in our cases and people see the NSPCC logo, they Harrogate. Katrina Barr added: “With so many start putting money in even though we haven’t young players in the band, competing against started playing.” other bands is always a major undertaking for us, but we will be in Dundee this weekend, NSPCC fundraising manager, Rachel Carter, although we will have to leave for home fairly added: “We’re very fortunate to have supporters early. We will also compete at Dunfermline in like Chas and Bollin Brass. I’m hopeful that this April and hope to make a CD in Glasgow in the year’s concerts will be equally as successful, Martlesham Brass recently welcomed Brett summer, so it will take much more than a road despite the current economic climate.” Baker to teach at its workshop and play as guest closure to defeat us!” soloist on Saturday 28 February. During the day, the Black Dyke principal trombonist led two workshops for players of all ages, sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm. A large and appreciative audience was then treated to an evening concert, which featured classics such as Londonderry Air and Georgia on My Mind. The band, conducted by Adam Cable, accompanied Brett and also played some of its favourites such as English Folksong Suite by Vaughan Williams and Nabucodonosor by Verdi. The trombone solo performances in The Spitfire and The Emperor produced rousing applause and the finale of Annie Laurie was outstanding. Liz Benyon

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BB 12-13.indd 12 17-03-2009 18:28:01 BRASS ROOTS

when it mainly played hymns and marched in church parades. To this day, it rehearses in the former Methodist Schoolroom, purchased, and subsequently generously donated to the band, by Harold Green, son of the founder, John Green. Brian commented: “Getting involved in this large-scale piece of new church music chimes well with the aims of the band’s forebears. At this stage, we can only imagine what the final results will be like. This is a huge project, using bands, singers, and actors; it even uses some of the players as actors in the drama, and it is written on a scale that none of us have experienced before. We can’t have a full vision of it all yet, and that is part of the excitement!” Bernard Snell, band Chairman, is a former Rushen Silver Band is a non-competing brass instrumental teaching of young people, both principal cornet of the International Staff Band, band on the Isle of Man, with an important role within the band and beginners. This helps to playing under Bernard Adams and Ray Bowes in the community of the south of the island. give Rushen Silver the enthusiasm and drive to in the 1970s. He was keen to point out that The roots of Rushen Silver Band are in Surby, continue, not just to make music, but also as a 100 years before his time with ISB, the very a small village about a mile outside Port Erin. social activity for the local community. Those first group of SA musicians, led by local man, The band began in 1926, when a group of lads learning to play with the band, both young and Charles Fry, was formed in Salisbury. Perhaps it got together with six concertinas and a drum. old, currently form a training band that plays at may be that the Passion is breathing life into an Unfortunately, six years later, it ceased to meet events around the south of the island. This year older tradition. “This project is a new thing for for various reasons, but in 1937 under the members of the training band are themselves Woodfalls,” said Bernard, continuing, “Working direction of Jamsie and Thomasie Clague, the entering the Manx Music Festival under the with composers is also a novel experience for Surby Band was reformed. Then numbering name Ballafesson Brass. most of us. Every rehearsal there is something around 18, it included mouth organs as well 2009 sees the band’s 60th anniversary as new, with bits of manuscript and new parts to as concertinas and a drum. With the outbreak Rushen Silver Band and, to mark this milestone, try. We feel involved in the creation, checking of war, many of the younger members left for a number of events are being planned. These notes, experimenting with mutes, with different active service, but upon their return (and with include a tour to Yorkshire, the recording of its tempi and so on. However, I do know what a few extras), the Surby Silver Band was formed first CD and a concert towards the end of the blessings and inspirations can come from and the first brass instruments were introduced. year with the band’s friend and musical advisor, good choral singing with brass. We can feel In 1949, the band became aware of a fund Richard Evans. privileged to sing and play it. The music moves held by Port St. Mary Commissioners for the John Kinley through the story of Christ’s Crucifixion, from formation of a band in the parish of Rushen. a brutal start, to a sorrowful middle, and a As no more information was forthcoming, and BB beautifully serene ending.” after much discussion and soul-searching, the Ken Worgan, the band’s President, has been at band changed its name and became Rushen Woodfalls for more than 30 years. As a former Silver. Many were disappointed when the sum These are heady days for SWT Woodfalls euphonium player with Stanshawe Band, he of £19 17s 6d was released! However, Rushen Band. Having just competed at Yeovil, and knows Bristol Cathedral well and is looking Silver Band is probably a more accurate name amidst some searching preparations for forward to the trip back to the town he was for the current band, with members being the West of England ‘Area’, the players are born in 86 years ago: “It is always thrilling geographically widespread and with a number gearing up for a brass band première of epic playing in a Cathedral. This is a bigger project even living outside the parish. proportions. Philip Wilby, no stranger to using than any of us have been involved with before, In November 1983, the band reached another bands in church, has recently completed a and I imagine that the Cathedral Choir must be milestone with the opening of its new brass band version of his Passion for our Times, equally quizzical about us. Its tradition is based bandroom, returning to Ballafesson after many in which the brass band will be combined with on the organ, and our sound, with four extra moves around the area. The bandroom was the 60 choristers of Bristol Cathedral’s Great percussionists, can cause some balance issues. funded and built by the band members and Choir, drama students from Trinity College of However, it will be a high watermark for us. friends, and is a lasting tribute to members past Theology, the full resources of the Cathedral When Paul Williams, our bandmaster, first ran and present. Without grants, this achievement organ, and actor, Lyndon O’Neil, who declaims it through, we were all caught by the serene was only made possible by the generosity the biblical narrative. Lasting around an hour, nature of the ending, and I’m sure that the and support of the band’s Vice Presidents, the this forms part of Bristol Cathedral’s Holy Week mixture of brass and voices will be sublime.” Friends of the Band, families, supporters and Observance, and will be premièred at 3.30pm Woodfalls’ wider reputation is based on its local residents. on Palm Sunday, 5 April. long-term contest successes. Having won the In recent years, the band has had much British Bandsman went down to Wiltshire to Grand Shield twice, played in the British Open success, regularly competing in the Manx Music find out how the band was getting on. Situated five times and the Royal Albert Hall nine times, Festival. Since 2004, when it gained joint first in a small village of under 1,000 residents nine how does this project fit into the grand plan? place in the March and Hymn class and 2nd in miles South of Salisbury and just one mile from Ken, Brian and Bernard agreed: “Contesting is the Entertainment section, good results at the the beautiful New Forest. Brian Easterbrook, the lifeblood of brass bands, but this is about Festival have happened on a regular basis. the band’s Secretary, was quick to point out something else, bigger than ourselves. All Success of a different kind comes with the that it was formed as a church group in 1874, music comes from above!”

BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 13

BB 12-13.indd 13 17-03-2009 18:28:04 WIRELESS BRASS PROFESSIONAL NETWORK

We take every possible precaution to ensure the accuracy of RICHARD ADAMS. Conductor, Adjudicator, Head of Music, DAVID HIRST. Conductor and Adjudicator. the details given below. However, we cannot be responsible for Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, 151 Bencoolen Street, Singapore The Cottage, Main Street, Milton, Newark, Nottinghamshire. changes to stated times or running order. 189656. Phone: +65 9451 8398. [email protected] Tel. 01777 872339 Fax 01777 872852 E-mail: david.hirst@ btinternet.com DEREK ASHMORE. www.hallamshiremusic.co.uk Friday, 27 March, 2130-2200. BBC Radio 2 Tel: 01507 358141 Fax: 01507 358034. ALAN HOPE. Conductor, Teacher and adjudicator. 113A Fatfield Listen to the Band. As part of the 2008 Brass in Concert Park, WASHINGTON, Tyne & Wear. NE38 8BP. Tel/Fax 0191 BRETT BAKER. BSc. ARCM. Soloist, Teacher, Conductor, Championships, Stavanger Band gave a gala concert titled When 4161008 Mob: 0776 5656729 E-mail: [email protected] Edward Meets Edvard at an Exhibition. Conducted by Allan Withington, Adjudicator. 35 Yewtree Drive, Barnton, Northwich, Cheshire. the programme features the music of Elgar and Grieg, and includes CW8 4NH. Tel. (01606) 783869. (Mob.) 0777 320 1736. E-mail [email protected] DAVID W. HORSFIELD. Adjudicator and Music Publisher. such favourites as Nimrod from the Enigma Variations and Morning ‘Ravenswood’ 50 Wyke Old Lane, Bailiff Bridge, Brighouse, West from Peer Gynt. The programme is presented by Frank Renton. MAURICE BALE. BSc, Arranger, Godiva Music. Yorkshire. HD6 4EH. Tel (01484) 722855. Mobile: 07710 208340. 18 Raleigh Road, Coventry CV2 4AA. Tel. 024 76 459 409. E-mail: [email protected] Listen to the Band is also available all week via Radio 2’s website www. bbc.co.uk/radio2. Click on the playback section to hear the show, on PETER BASSANO FRCM HonRCM North Lodge, Potter Row, near ALAN JENKIN. B.Sc., LTCL, BBCM, Cert. Educ., Conductor, Gt. Missenden, Bucks HP16 9LT. Tel.01494 868240 mobile; 07985 demand, for a week following transmission. Adjudicator. 4 Beauchamp Close, Neath Hill, Milton Keynes, 101244. E-mail :[email protected] www.peterbassano.com Bucks MK14 6HZ. Tel/Fax. (01908) 604818 (Home), 224251 (Music Centre). World of Brass Radio. John Maines introduces a weekly one-hour DUNCAN A. BECKLEY. BA. Conductor, Band Trainer, Adjudicator. programme of the best of international banding. Commencing on 26 Ruskin Avenue, Wrenthorpe, Wakefield TERRY JOHNS. A.R.A.M. Fridays, the rolling programme of the most recent four shows can be WF1 2BD (MOB) 07973 389707 Composer/Conductor/Adjudicator E-mail: [email protected] accessed 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 52 weeks of the year on 55/6 Waterfront Avenue Edinburgh EH5 1JD www.worldofbrass.com (then click on the WOB Radio link) or www. JOHN BERRYMAN. ALCM, LTCL, Conductor, Adjudicator. 12 E-mail: [email protected] Mobile: 07777603675 worldofbrass.com/wobradio Beaufort Drive, Barton Seagrave, Kettering, Northants. NN15 6SF Tel. (01536) 722991. SIMON KERWIN. BA (Hons) 07740 583801 This week’s programme includes: Beaumaris (Gwyn Evans): Belford’s website: www.staveslimited.com Carnival March (Alexander); Bodmin (Nicholas Childs): Barber of DEREK M. BROADBENT. Conductor and Adjudicator. email: [email protected]. Seville (Rossini); Grimethorpe (Richard Evans): Titania’s Aria (Thomas 17 Corrance Road, Wyke, Nr. Bradford, BD12 9LH Yorks. Tel/Fax. (01274) 670459. NORMAN C. LAW. Conductor, Adjudicator, Band Trainer, - soloist: Richard Marshall); Cory (Robert Childs): Labour and Love Private Teacher. Lawholme, 4 Farfield Drive, Hepworth, (Fletcher); Black Dyke (Nicholas Childs): Casper’s Lullaby (Horner arr. MALCOLM BROWNBILL. Band Tutor, Conductor, and Huddersfield, W. Yorks HD7 1TU. Smith); Grimethorpe (Frank Renton): Ruby Tuesday (Jagger); VBS Adjudicator. 49 Pike House Road, Eccleston, St. Helens, Merseyside. Tel. (01484) 685354. Poynton (Alan Lawton): Carnival of Venice (Clarke - soloist: Andrew WA10 5JZ. Tel. (01744) 28642. Lawton); Wellington (Telford) (Stephen Curtis): Suite for Brass (Rutter ALAN R. LEWIS. B. PHIL. LTCL. Head of Brass, Sedbergh School, C. BRIAN BUCKLEY. C.Chem., FTCL, LTCL, ALCM, Conductor, arr. Smith); Brighouse and Rastrick (David Hirst): Aberystwyth (arr. Sedbergh, Cumbria LA10 5HG. Adjudicator, Band Teacher. ‘Egmont’, 81 Gabalfa Road, Sketty, Tel. (015396) 22230 (w), (015396) 20001. Steadman-Allen); Black Dyke (Geoffrey Brand): The Girl I Left Behind Me Swansea, West Glamorgan SA2 8ND. Tel. (01792) 205896. (Langford). BOB CHILDS. DMA, M.Mus(dist), ARCM(hons), FLCM, PGCE, STAN LIPPEATT. B.A., L.R.S.M. Conductor, Adjudicator. Local Radio for next week Euphonium Soloist, Conductor, Teacher. 13 Parc Plas, Blackwood, 60, Sixth Avenue, Edwinstowe, Mansfield, Notts. NG21 9PW. Tel (01623) 822672 Mobile 07875 138776 Sunday, 22 March, 1905-2000. Sounds of Brass. FM frequencies: Gwent NP12 1SJ. Tel 01495 226106 (home), 07966 263881 (mobile). [email protected] http://www.bobchilds.co.uk/ Bristol 94.9, Cornwall 95.2, Devon 103.4, Gloucestershire 104.7, JANE LLOYD. MA FVCM, LGSM, ALCM, PGCetEd, Dip Mus. Guernsey 93.2, Jersey 88.8, Swindon 103.6, Wiltshire 104.3. ROY W. CURRAN. Conductor, Adjudicator. 6 Mary Street, Burnley, Conductor, Performer, Arranger, Teacher. Northampton & East Available on the World Wide Web at 1905 British time or at any time for Lancs. BB10 4AJ. Home: 01282 426203;Mobile: 07973 788812. Midlands Area. Tel: 01604 675188 seven days after the broadcast. To hear the programme, access www. bbc.co.uk/devon and click onto Listen Live or Listen Again. DR. KENNETH DOWNIE. DMA. BA(Mus) Dunelm. Kantara, KEITH MacDONALD. N.A.B.B.C., A.L.C.M. Conductor, Band 8 Downs Road, South Wonston, Winchester, SO21 3EU. Trainer, Adjudicator, Author (see website). 20 North Haven, Tel: (01962) 883031 Internet: www.kantaramusik.com Phillip Hunt presents a programme of brass band recordings and news. Seaham, Co. Durham SR7 0DS. Tel: 0191 581 4224 (home), 07949 947703 (mobile) Email: [email protected], info@ This week’s edition includes: Massed bands of Leyland DAF and Sun JOHN DURRANT. MA. Soloist, Conductor, Composer, Adjudicator. keithmacdonald.co.uk Website: www.keithmacdonald.co.uk Life (Harry Mortimer): Marche Slave (Tchaikovsky arr. Davies); Black 3 Todmorden Road, Lytham St. Annes, Lancs. FY8 2QL. Dyke (Nicholas Childs): Le Carnaval Romain (Berlioz arr. Lorriman), Tel: 01253 721903. Or 07985 191623 (Mob). MAJOR IAN McELLIGOTT. Conductor, Adjudicator, Composer/ Intermezzo and Toreador’s Song from Carmen (Bizet arr. Fernie); MARTYN EVANS. B.Ed. Head of Brass Oldham M.B.C., Teacher, Arranger, Brass Teacher. 41 Weaver Moss, Sandhurst, Berks. Grimethorpe Colliery (Garry Cutt): Quartet from Rigoletto (Verdi arr. Conductor, Adjudicator. 44 Holden Clough Drive, Ashton-under- GU47 9BQ. Mobile: 07903 137659 Maunder - duettists: Shaun Randall and Paul Hughes); Black Dyke Lyne. OL7 9TH. Tel. 0161 330 4753. (Mobile) 07711 802635. (James Watson): An American in Paris (Gershwin arr. Snell); Britannia JOHN MAINES. Conductor, Adjudicator. 46 Hill Crest Road, Building Society (Howard Snell): Paganini Variations (Rachmaninov arr. J. STUART FAWCETT, OAM, LDBBA. Conductor, Adjudicator. 23A Offerton, Stockport. SK2 5QL. Tel. 0161 292 9443. Snell - soloist: Tracey Redfearn); Grimethorpe Colliery (Elgar Howarth): Mill Moor Road, Meltham, Holmfirth, HD9 5JT. Tel: 01484 309500. (Mobile) 07901 528059. Website: www.johnmaines.co.uk Procession to the Minster (Wagner arr. Snell). ALAN FERNIE. DRSAM, Dip NCOS Craiglea, 48 Mill Street, Selkirk, STEVEN MEAD. Euphonium Soloist, Conductor, Adjudicator. TD7 5AD. Tel. 01750 725213. (Mob.) 0794 7254961. E-mail: Requests and comments are welcome at e-mail: brassmanpgh@ 10 Old Forge Road, Fenny Drayton, Nuneaton, Warwickshire [email protected] CV13 6BD. Tel/Fax: (01827) 711964, Mob. 07971 843668, uwclub.net E-mail: [email protected]. BRUCE FRASER. Adjudicator, Conductor, Composer. Monday, 23 March, 2100-2200. Manx Radio Lomond Music, 32 Bankton Park, Kingskettle, Fife. KY15 7PY. Tel. (01337) 830974. E-mail: [email protected] ALAN MORRISON. FTCL, LRAM. Soloist, Conductor and Time for Brass. Frequencies 97.2, 89 and 103.7 FM and 1368 AM Adjudicator. 25 Acaster Drive, Garforth, Leeds LS25 2BH. and worldwide on www.manxradio.com COLIN HARDY. Member NABBC, Adjudicator and Conductor, Tel. (0113) 286 3374, Fax. (0113) 287 3947, Mob. 0775 197 Click on Listen FM or Listen AM for the programme at the time of 25 Thirlmere Avenue, Wyke, Bradford, W. Yorks. BD12 9DS. 3176. E-mail: [email protected] broadcast or on Listen Again for a week following transmission. Tel/Fax. (01274) 674174. E-mail: [email protected] website.lineone.net/~alan-morrison Ian Cottier presents a programme of brass band music and comment.

BRITISH BANDSMAN PAGE 14

BB 14-15.indd 14 17-03-2009 18:28:45 CLASSIFIED Diary Dates Adverts BandsBRITISH man the leading international brass magazine CDs A list of forthcoming events that have been advertised in British Bandsman. The leading international brass band magazine Incorporating Brass Band News, British Mouthpiece and International MARCH MIDLAND CD Bandsman 21 - 22 - Dundee. Scottish Championships, 3rd, 2nd and 4th sections (Saturday), 1st and Championship Managing Director sections (Sunday), Caird Hall. We hold one of the world’s largest selections of brass & Trevor Caffull 21 - 22 - Stevenage. London and Southern Counties Regional Championships, 3rd and 2nd sections military band CDs including most BB-reviewed CDs. Finance Director Gordon Camsey (Saturday), 4th, 1st and Championship sections (Sunday), Arts and Leisure Centre. Order on-line at www.ukcd.net Editor 21 - 22 - Darlington. North of England Regional Championships, 1st and 4th sections (Saturday), 3rd, E-mail: [email protected] Tel: 0044 (0) 121 244 4605 or 6 Kenneth Crookston 2nd and Championship sections (Sunday), Dolphin Centre. Fax: 0044 (0) 121 680 9018 Associate Editor 21 - Derby. Friends of Derby SA presents Black Dyke Band, 7.30pm, Assembly Rooms.www.fdsa.org.uk Professor Philip Wilby 21 - Stroud. BTM Band, Subscription Rooms. Features Editor 22 - Crawley. Hepworth (Cookson Homes) Band, 3.00pm, The Hawth. INSURANCE Rodney Newton Contributors and consultants APRIL Brass Band Peter Wilson 5 - Manchester. National Youth Brass Band Championships, Royal Northern College of Music. Insurance Services Anthony Banwell 18 - Bournemouth. Portsmouth Citadel Band, 7.15pm, All Saints Church, Southbourne. BH6 5EQ. 312 High Street, Harlington, Hayes, Julian Bright Middx. UB3 5BT Dr. Robert Childs 18 - Stroud. Flowers Band, Subscription Rooms. Tel: 020 8759 0825. Fax: 020 8564 9063. 24 - 26 - Norway. Grenland International Brass Festival, Skien. Iwan Fox THE ORIGINAL SCHEME Graham Fraser OFTEN COPIED—NEVER BETTERED MAY Chris Helme Underwritten by Norwich Union Pat Herak 2 - Slough. Recital No. 34 with Charley Brighton (euphonium) and Malcolm Stowell (piano), Lt. Col. Graham Jones MBE 12.00pm, St. Mary’s Church. Ron Massey 3 - Buxton. Buxton Brass Band Festival, own-choice test piece competition. MUSICIANS Peter Meechan See www.northwestbrassbandorg.uk for more details. Tim Mutum 9 - Blackpool. The Spring Brass Band Festival, Winter Gardens. Kent Police Band Frank Renton 16 - Stroud. Wingates Band, Subscription Rooms. Non-contesting (approximately 3rd Section Robert Richardson 17- Weston-super-Mare. 41st Own-Choice Contest, for more details contact 01934 514960. standard), busy and very friendly band, requires John Stirzaker 30 - Newport. Greater Gwent Solo and Quartet Contest, YMCA. front row cornet and Bb Bass David Thornton Practise Wednesday evenings in Maidstone Carl Woodman JUNE Membership open to all. Malcolm Wood 14 - Leeds. NYBBGB auditions, University of Leeds. John Groves: 01424 773915 Editorial 20 - Cardiff.Cory Band, Wycliffe Gordon (trombone) and Morriston Orpheus Choir, 7.30pm, St. David’s [email protected] Telephone: 01506 882985 Hall. Fax: 01506 881596 20 - Milton Keynes. NABBC Young Conductors’ Competition, Chrysalis Theatre. E-mail: [email protected] Display and classified advertising 21 - London. NYBBGB auditions, Royal Academy of Music. Whitstable Brass requires a conductor. Stan Holness, co-founder and conductor since its John Ward 28 - Rhyl. Entertainment Contest, Championship/1st to 4th Section, email: [email protected] Telephone: 01132 707214. 29 - 3 July - Holland. Allan Withington’s Conducting School, email: [email protected] for more details. formation in 1977, plans to retire. Very friendly 4th Section, self-supporting band. E-mail: [email protected] Applications to the Secretary, 24 Kent Street, Accounts JULY Whitstable, CT5 4HS, or Hazel Foster 26 - 1 August - Swansea. 19th International Brass Band Summer School, University of Wales. email: [email protected] Telephone: 01933 445442 Subscriptions and Trade Orders AUGUST Andrew Hall 9-15 - Bromsgrove. Brass Band Summer School, Bromsgrove School. Cromer and Sheringham Brass requires a new Telephone: 01933 445442 Typesetting and Artwork 22 - Slough. Recital No. 35 with Charley Brighton (euphonium) and Malcolm Stowell (piano), Musical Director to guide and train the band GK Graphic Design VOF 12.00pm, St. Mary’s Church. which been in existence for at least 85 years. We are an easy-going, friendly 4th Section Cover price: £1.25 SEPTEMBER concert band of mixed abilities, based in Upper 12 - Birmingham. The 157th British Open Brass Band Championship, Symphony Hall. SUBSCRIPTION RATES 12 months 6 months Sheringham, Norfolk. UK £56.00 £30.00 20 - Cornwall. NYBBGB auditions, St. Dennis Bandroom. If you are interested in applying for the post of Europe £75.00 £45.00 Musical Director, please contact Bob Grimmer, Rest of the World £115.00 £60.00 OCTOBER Band Secretary, on 01263 588654, or see (52 issues per year) 25 - Leicester. NYBBGB auditions, Ratby Bandroom. www.northnorfolk.org/cromersheringhambrass DIRECT DEBIT (only for subscribers living in the UK) One month: £4.85 (saving nearly 10% on the cover price) 12 months: £52.00 (saving NOVEMBER INSTRUMENTS 20% on the price of a weekly copy from newsagents). Contact us for a direct debit form. 7 - Salford. NYBBGB auditions, University of Salford. E-Bandsman - Only available to overseas readers - online edition direct to your desktop. 14 - Sunderland. NYBBGB auditions, University of Sunderland. Besson Sovereign horn, £52 per year or £30 for 6 months. 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BB 14-15.indd 15 17-03-2009 18:28:47 New Brass Band Works for 2009

The Civil Defenders (Sir Patrick Moore arr. Rodney Newton) 29761 £24.95 Intrada for Band (Dean Jones) 29923 £24.95 The Civil Defence Association of Great Britain was formed as a support body for the Civil Defence Service Intrada for Band was composed as a concert opener that would immediately catch the attention of the and, while the Service had its own march, the Association did not - until recently. Sir Patrick Moore CBE listener. The music utilises stately, fanfare-like patterns, to open with flair and anticipation. The central FRS, astronomer, television personality extraordinaire, retired xylophonist, pianist and composer, was section features the melodies ‘Joyful, Joyful’ (from Beethoven’s 9th Symphony) and ‘Praise My Soul’, approached in the hope that he might provide a suitable march for the Civil Defence Association. Although arranged in a medium rock style, which builds to an exciting conclusion. now musically inactive through illness, he produced from his vast collection of marches written over a long period, the present one which he entitled, The Civil Defenders. Although originally scored for piano, The Wondrous Cross (Dean Jones) 29924 £24.95 Sir Patrick enlisted the help of his old friend and musical collaborator, Rodney Newton, who has arranged The Wondrous Cross was written as the result of a request from Tim Parker, Bandmaster of the Staines Band versions for brass and wind bands. The style of Civil Defenders is that of a traditional British ‘road march’ of The Salvation Army for something new and inspiring for Easter and based on the tunes of ‘Rockingham’ and embodies all the panache and gusto which that implies. and ‘O Waley, Waley’. The composer has fused the old and the new tunes firstly with a chorale setting and then in a ‘bolero’ style. This has created a moving work that will engage the listener into the heart of the Flight of the Bumblebee (Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov arr. David Childs) 29679 £24.95 Easter story. Flight of the Bumblebee was originally composed by Rimsky-Korsakov as an orchestral interlude for his opera The Tale of Tsar Saltan (1899). The piece closes the first tableau of Act III, right after the magic We Three Kings (Rev. John Henry Hopkins Jr. arr. Dean Jones) 29925 £24.95 Swan-Bird gives Prince Gvidon Saltanovich (the Tsar’s son) instructions on how to change into an insect We Three Kings of Orient Are is a Christmas carol (technically an Epiphany carol) written by Rev. John so that he can fly away to visit his father (who does not know that he is alive). In the century since its Henry Hopkins, Jr. who wrote both the lyrics and the music as part of a Christmas pageant for the General composition, the piece has become a standard showcase for solo instrumental virtuosity. Theological Seminary in New York City. It was supposedly written as early as 1857 but did not appear in print This arrangement is by one of the finest exponents of the euphonium, David Childs. until his Carols, Hymns and Song was published in 1863. In this arrangement the use of a dance-like idiom creates a lively atmosphere, which is tinged with a Spanish flavour in the central section! Swansea Bay (Rodney Newton) 29921 £24.95 Written in 2007, this march was specially commissioned by Drs. Robert and Nicholas Childs for the Within Blue Empires (Paul Lovatt-Cooper) 29928 £69.95 International Brass Band Summer School, held annually in Swansea. It is in the form of a standard British Within Blue Empires was commissioned by Graham Taylor, a successful design Army march and the composer acknowledges the invaluable help and advice of Major Graham O. Jones MBE, consultant. Graham was whale watching off the coast of Canada when he Director of Music, The Regimental Band of Her Majesty’s Coldstream Guards. became inspired and fell in love with the great mammals. The composition Available follows a programmatic brief, focusing on the sea, and in particular, 27th March Meditation (Paul McGhee) 29922 £24.95 the life of whales. The British Federation of Brass Band (BFBB) has chosen Meditation was originally written in 2005 for piano as an Erik Satie pastiche exercise whilst the composer Within Blue Empires as the test-piece for the 2009 English National Brass Band was studying at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama. It was scored for brass band in 2007 for the Championships being held at Preston Guild Hall on Saturday 27th June. wedding ceremony of the composer’s friends, Jim and Val McEntee.

www.worldofbrass.com/primavista Telephone order line: +44 (0)1933 445 445 All orders for UK (incl. N.I.) delivery, irrespective of size, are subject to a £2.95 postage charge. Overseas charges available on request.

Highlights from the 2008 Brass in Concert Championship and World of Brass in Concert

The Brass in Concert Championship, with the World of Brass in Concert held on the previous day, is one of the major events of the brass banding calendar. Now truly comfortable in its magnificent home venue, The Sage Gateshead, the event continues to tempt and seduce with so much on offer to whet the appetite.

This set of DVDs can only bring a flavour of two complete days of brass banding but, in selecting the material, we hope that we have brought a menu that satisfies all tastes.

Disc 1 starts with excerpts from the World of Brass in Concert featuring the 2007 champions Brighouse and Rastrick Band and the creativity and energy brought by Stavanger Brass Band. Following that, in order of play, are excerpts from the programmes of every band including the complete winning performance from Cory Band, all the other prize winners and finally rounding off with the winners of the 2008 Action Medical Research Youth Entertainment Championships, Rochdale Borough Youth Band.

Presented by Frank Renton who guides us, in his own inimitable way, effortlessly through this collection of highlights, this triple DVD allows you to join the sell-out crowd to enjoy the thrilling line-up of bands bringing their own unique style of entertainment.

DVD 26054 £24.95 (Triple DVD) WORLD OF BRASS THE HOME OF BRASS SOUND www.worldofbrass.com www.worldofbrasstunes.com Telephone order line: +44 (0)1933 445 445

All orders for UK (incl. N.I.) delivery, irrespective of size, are subject to a £2.95 postage charge. Overseas charges available on request.

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