West of England Regional Championships 2024

 

On Sunday 10th March, the band took part in the West of England Regional Championships, playing Philip Sparke's 'Variations on an Enigma'. The band were very pleased with the performance. However, the band received 5th place from the adjudicators.

A huge thank you must go to our musical director, Gareth Churcher, for weeks of hard work and preparation. Also, to Michael Fowles, for taking over the baton and putting in hard work, drive and determination in that final week.

All of Gareth and Michael's hard work, along with the players, culminated in a performance for the band to be proud of. Whilst a slightly disappointing result, we know that there's plenty to work on moving forwards!

Lastly, it goes without saying that the band are extremely grateful for its wonderful supporters.

The band are back in the full swing of rehearsals and raring to go ahead of the Grand Shield in May, where they will be playing 'A Brussel's Requiem'.

New Player Announcement!

The band are delighted two announce two new signings ahead of the West of England Regional Championships!

Taking up the position of 2nd Horn is Kevin Mackenzie. Kevin is no stranger to the band, having been musical director for many years.

The band is also pleased to welcome back Dominic Turner onto Bass Trombone, also a familiar face, having played for the band several years ago.

Kevin and Dom are great additions to the band, and we hope they enjoy a long and successful tenure.

Both them and the band have thoroughly enjoyed the build up to the contest on Sunday under professional conductor, Michael Fowles.

CBBA Festival of Brass

 

On Saturday 3rd February, the band took part in the CBBA Festival of Brass in Newquay.

17 bands took to the stage to perform a 20 minute concert programme.

The band was very proud to take part in such a great initiative, and we hope to see it continue for many years to come.

The band opened their set with Goff Richards' 'Hymns of Praise'. This was followed by the fiendishly challenging solo 'Carnival Cocktail', showcasing our fantastic solo euphonium player, John Hitchens. The band then played the middle section from 'The Saga of Haakon the Good'. The programme was rounded off with Widor's 'Tocatta' from his Organ Symphony No. 5.

The band was also pleased to accompany its 2nd trombone, Corey Williams, playing his Champion of Cornwall solo, 'Grandfather's Clock'.

The band very much enjoyed playing at this event, and must congratulate the CBBA for organising such a wonderful day of music making.