Black Dyke
Conductor: Prof Nicholas Childs
Open Record:
With a record like no other, this will be the Queensbury band’s 112th appearance at a contest they have won a record 30 times.
Last year’s victory was their first since 2006 but was also the catalyst for the domestic ‘Double’ that followed at the Royal Albert Hall a few weeks later.
What price a repeat performance here this weekend then?
The band has endured a few little contesting hiccups since that commanding victory although their success at the European Championship in Freiburg was frighteningly efficient and focused.
It will take some band and some performance to wrest the famous Gold Shield from their grip.
Player to listen out for:
Gary Curtin - What a performer the Irishman has become. He is the embodiment of the supreme self-confidence the whole band now shows on the contest stage.
Principal players:
Principal Cornet: Richard Marshall
Principal Euphonium: Gary Curtin
Soprano: Benjamin Richeton
Solo Trombone: Chris Binns
Solo Horn: Jonathan Bates
Flugel: Zoe Hancock
Baritone: Katrina Marzella
Eb Tuba: Ben Dixon
Bb Tuba: Matt Routley
4BR Ranking: 2
2015 Form:
Regionals: Disqualified (Yorkshire)
European Championship: Winner
Appearances: 112th time
Debut: 1856
Open Record:
30 Wins: 1862, 1863, 1871, 1879, 1880, 1881, 1891, 1895, 1896, 1899, 1902, 1904, 1908, 1914, 1935, 1957, 1968, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1976, 1977, 1983, 1985, 1986, 1992, 1995, 2005, 2006, 2014
25 Seconds: 1877, 1887, 1888, 1900, 1903, 1905, 1907, 1909, 1917, 1922, 1934, 1938, 1971, 1978, 1984, 1988, 1993, 1994, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2007, 2009, 2011, 2012
12 Thirds: 1868, 1873, 1884, 1894, 1916, 1937, 1953, 1958, 1963, 2002, 2003, 2010
8 Fourths: 1890, 1912, 1919, 1921, 1936, 1970, 1979, 1989
5 Fifths: 1864, 1920, 1936, 1952, 1966
4 Sixths: 1947, 1962, 2004, 2008, 2013
25 times unplaced
1 disqualification: 1865
Open Record since 2000:
Conductor and draw
2014: Winners (Nicholas Childs) (13)
2013: 6th (Nicholas Childs) (4)
2012: 2nd (Nicholas Childs) (10)
2011: 2nd (Nicholas Childs) (12)
2010: 3rd (Nicholas Childs) (13)
2009: 2nd (Nicholas Childs) (16)
2008: 6th (Nicholas Childs) (1)
2007: 2nd (Nicholas Childs) (15)
2006: Winners (Nicholas Childs) (11)
2005: Winners (Nicholas Childs) (13)
2004: 6th (Nicholas Childs) (6)
2003: 3rd (Nicholas Childs) (11)
2002: 3rd (Nicholas Childs) (3)
2001: 2nd (Nicholas Childs) (14)
2000: 2nd (Nicholas Childs) (15)
Brass Band Bűgermusik Luzern
Conductor: Michael Bach
Open Record:
History will be made when the formidable Swiss contender takes to the stage at Symphony Hall on Saturday.
The invitation to compete (following their 2014 European triumph) is a welcome new chapter in the history of the event - and has been given to a band that fully deserves to test its mettle against perhaps the strongest ever field of Open rivals.
Make no mistake about it - the famous Golden Shield could very well end up in a Luzern bank vault come the announcement of the results: They are that good.
Although they could not retain their Swiss Open and National titles late last year, their performances in coming third at the European Championship under their inspirational MD sent a shudder down the spine.
If you didn’t think the Swiss were an exciting lot - think again.
Player to listen out for:
Philipp Renggli - A wonderfully talented euphonium performer and the fulcrum of the band.
Principal players:
Principal Cornet: Duri Cathomen
Principal Euphonium: Philipp Renggli
Soprano: Adrian Fleischlin
Solo Trombone: Christoph Bolliger
Solo Horn: Philipp Werlen
Flugel: Lukas Scherrer
Baritone: Adrian Bachmann
Eb Tuba: Iwan Estermann
Bb Tuba: Martin Aregger
4BR Ranking: 9
2015 Form:
European Championship: 3rd
Appearances: Debut
Debut: 2015
Open Record: Not applicable
Open Record since 2000:
Conductor and draw
Not applicable
Brighouse & Rastrick
Conductor: Prof David King
Open Record:
The long wait for a seventh British Open success continues for the West Riding band, despite getting a decent draw for the first time in a couple of years last time out.
Symphony Hall still remains something of a bogey contesting ground though, with no podium finish since 1998.
Their Australian maestro returns once more to see if he can make it seventh time lucky with the band - and with the help of some high class imports he may well gain his fourth Mortimer Trophy in the process.
Recent form is hard to gauge despite a solid performance at the Yorkshire Area in Bradford, but that has never stopped them being a band that can beat anyone, anywhere, on their day.
Player to listen out for:
Kyle Lawson - the Kiwi principal cornet player has already gained a deserved reputation as a top class performer in his home country - and now’s his chance to show the rest of the world.
Principal players:
Principal Cornet: Kyle Lawson
Principal Euphonium: Glenn Van Looy
Soprano: Andrew Bannister
Solo Trombone: Ryan Watkins
Solo Horn: Sheona White
Flugel: Lucy Cutt
Baritone: Ciaran Young
Eb Tuba: Conall Gormley
Bb Tuba: Andrew Cattanach
4BR Ranking: 6
2015 Form:
Regionals: 4th (Yorkshire)
Appearances: 75th time
Debut: 1890
Open Record:
6 Wins: 1929, 1932, 1933, 1934, 1936, 1978
3 Seconds: 1965, 1977, 1983
5 Thirds: 1939, 1940, 1973, 1976, 1998
7 Fourths: 1942, 1943, 1961, 1964, 1984, 1999, 2002
7 Fifths: 1960, 1971, 1987, 2003, 2009, 2011, 2012
5 Sixths: 1938,1944, 1959, 1986, 1995
41 times unplaced
Open Record since 2000:
Conductor and draw
2014: 7th (David King) (14)
2013: 9th (David King) (5)
2012: 5th (David King) (5)
2011: 5th (David King) (10)
2010: 10th (David King) (2)
2009: 5th (David King) (8)
2008: 8th (Alan Morrison) (16)
2007: 11th (Alan Morrison) (7)
2006: 12th (Ian McElligott) (16)
2005: 7th (James Gourlay) (6)
2004: 11th (James Gourlay) (5)
2003: 5th (Major Ian McElligott) (17)
2002: 4th (Major Ian McElligott) (12)
2001: 8th (Allan Withington) (8)
2000: 12th (Allan Withington) (8)
Carlton Main Frickley Colliery
Conductor: Phillip McCann
Open Record:
Carlton Main has had a bit of an up and down existence at the Open since their return in 2003, and that was certainly seen last year as they rather unexpectedly slumped to 16th place.
That means they will have to be in the type of form they showed in winning the Yorkshire Area earlier this year, not only to secure their Open status but to put them back within reach of their first triumph since 1958.
MD Phillip McCann continues to draw engaging performances of musical interest from a very solid ensemble which contains a number of outstanding soloists - so don’t be surprised if they feature in the prizes once more.
Player to listen out for:
Anna Spedding - A little gem of a flugel player.
Principal players:
Principal Cornet: Kirsty Abbotts
Principal Euphonium: Toni Durrant
Soprano: Connor Lennon
Solo Horn: Jessica Martin
Flugel: Anna Spedding
Solo Trombone: Phil Guy
Baritone: Hannah Platt
Eb Tuba: Simon Hooley
Bb Tuba: Roy Batty
4BR Ranking: 13
2015 Form:
Regionals: Winners (Yorkshire)
Appearances: 68th time
Debut: 1921
Open Record:
2 Wins: 1922, 1958
5 Seconds: 1941, 1957, 1959, 1969, 1972
4 Thirds: 1948, 1950, 1956, 2011
3 Fourths: 1928, 1944, 1963
2 Fifths: 1927, 1946
2 Sixths: 1923, 2006
49 times unplaced
Open Record since 2000:
Conductor and draw
2014: 16th (Phillip McCann) (9)
2013: 8th (Phillip McCann) (9)
2012: 12th (Phillip McCann) (15)
2011: 3rd (Phillip McCann) (5)
2010: 8th (Phillip McCann) (11)
2009: 16th (Russell Gray) (9)
2008: 7th (Russell Gray (12)
2007: 12th (Russell Gray) (11)
2006: 6th (Russell Gray) (19)
2005: DNC
2004: 18th (Brian Grant) (7)
2003: Winners of Grand Shield (W. Rushworth) (prom): 18th (W. Rushworth) (14)
2002: 19th (William Rushworth) (17) (rel)
2001: 17th (John Hinckley) (6)
2000: 9th (John Hinckley) (21)
Co-operative Funeralcare Band
Conductor: Allan Ramsay
Open Record:
Co-operative Funeralcare returned to the British Open in 2003, but if they are not careful this year they could find themselves battling it out at Blackpool at the Grand Shield in 2016.
After two thoroughly impressive performances in 2013 and 2014, last year they never clicked and as a result they are now looking over their shoulder.
However, if they can capture the form they showed in even greater adversity at the European Championship in Freiburg then they should have no problems surviving, but it is a big ask of both players and their excellent MD.
Player to listen out for:
Jim Hayes - A classy, solid performer who can mix bravura brilliance and dainty delicacy within the same bar.
Principal players:
Principal Cornet: Jim Hayes
Principal Euphonium: Scott Kerr
Soprano: Caroline Tennant
Solo Trombone: Paul Kiernan
Solo Horn: Chris Davies
Flugel: Andrea Casey
Baritone: Chris Flynn
Eb Tuba: Ross Knight
Bb Tuba: Andy Smith
4BR Ranking: 12
2015 Form:
Regionals: 2nd (Scotland)
European Championship: 7th
West Lothian Festival: 2nd
Land O’ Burns: 2nd
Appearances: 28th time
Debut: 1956
Open Record:
4 Thirds: 1993, 1997, 2004, 2013
1 Fourth: 2006
22 times unplaced:
Open Record since 2000:
Conductor and draw
2014: 15th (Allan Ramsay) (2)
2013: 3rd (Allan Ramsay) (14)
2012: 7th (Allan Ramsay) (4)
2011: 14th (Michael Fowles) (13)
2010: 11th (Michael Fowles) (16)
2009: 8th (Michael Fowles) (12)
2008: 11th (Andrew Duncan) (9)
2007: 14th (Allan Ramsay) (5)
2006: 4th (Allan Ramsay) (15)
2005: 10th (Frank Renton) (15)
2004: 3rd (Ian McElligott) (13)
2003: 2nd at Grand Shield (N. Childs) (prom): 13th (James Scott) (12)
2002: 16th (John Hinckley) (4) (rel)
2001: 12th (James Gourlay) (4)
2000: 11th (Kazuyoshi Uemura) (16)
Cory
Conductor: Philip Harper
Open Record:
A 21st century record of achievement at the British Open unrivalled by any other band, the Welsh Champion remains one of the heavyweight contenders to add a sixth title to their CV.
They haven’t been outside the top six since 1998, and it would be a brave man to bet against them carrying on that run under Philip Harper, despite a few personnel changes of late.
They didn’t quite fire on all their V12 cylinders in 2014 but still came mighty close to winning every contest they entered, whilst 2015 has also just seen them a little off their usual pace. Time for a Harper inspired turbo boost then.
Player to listen out for:
Helen Williams - Graced the flugel chair at Foden’s for so many years and has always performed brilliantly at the British Open.
Principal players:
Principal Cornet: Tom Hutchinson
Principal Euphonium: Glyn Williams
Soprano: Steve Stewart
Solo Trombone: Chris Thomas
Solo Horn: Ailsa Russell
Flugel: Helen Williams
Baritone: Stephen Kane
Eb Tuba: Simon Howell
Bb Tuba: Rob Nicholson
4BR Ranking: 1
2015 Form:
Regionals: Winners (Wales)
European Championship: 5th
Appearances: 53rd time
Debut: 1922
Open Record:
5 Wins: 2000, 2002, 2007, 2009, 2011
6 Seconds: 1950, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2013, 2014
4 Thirds: 1972, 2001, 2008, 2012
3 Fourths: 1951, 1975, 1976
2 Fifths: 1974, 2010
2 Sixths: 1999, 2003
30 times unplaced
Open Record since 2000:
Conductor and draw
2014: 2nd (Philip Harper) (10)
2013: 3rd (Philip Harper) (16)
2012: 3rd (Philip Harper) (13)
2011: Winners (Robert Childs) (9)
2010: 5th (Robert Childs) (1)
2009: Winners (Robert Childs) (6)
2008: 3rd (Robert Childs) (11)
2007: Winners (Robert Childs) (16)
2006: 2nd (Robert Childs) (17)
2005: 2nd (Robert Childs) (16)
2004: 2nd (Robert Childs) (2)
2003: 6th (Robert Childs) (13)
2002: Winners (Robert Childs) (16)
2001: 3rd (Robert Childs) (20)
2000: Winners (Robert Childs) (22)
Desford Colliery
Conductor: Tom Davoren
Open Record:
Desford remains the eternal enigma of the British Open - despite delivering their best performance (and result) here since 2007 last time out.
It somehow summed them up that less than a month later they ended 19th at the Royal Albert Hall. They are the brass band world’s equivalent of the French rugby team.
At their best (and fully rehearsed) they can truly sparkle - thanks to their intuitive MD and a plethora of high class performers around the stand. They were oddly workmanlike at the Midlands Area earlier this year, but if they really go for it they could well feature in the prize list once again. Then again…
Player to listen out for:
Brian Winter - Another great opportunity to hear one of classiest flugel players around.
Principal players:
Principal Cornet: David Smith
Principal Euphonium: Martyn Patterson
Soprano: Richard Bates
Solo Horn: George Thackray
Flugel: Brian Winter
Solo Trombone: Beth Calderbank
Baritone: Kate Williams
Eb Tuba: Andy Johnson
Bb Tuba: Phillip Blake-Convey
4BR Ranking: 24
2015 Form:
Regionals: 2nd (Midlands)
Appearances: 43rd time
Debut: 1970
Open Record:
1 Second: 1979
2 Thirds: 1980, 2006
2 Fourths: 1982, 2007
3 Fifths: 1984, 1986, 2014
2 Sixths: 1983, 1987
32 times unplaced
Open Record since 2000:
Conductor and draw
2014: 5th (Tom Davoren) (4)
2013: 11th (Nigel Seaman) (17)
2012: 9th (Nigel Seaman) (8)
2011: 7th (Nigel Seaman) (6)
2010: 7th (Martin Winter) (7)
2009: 7th (James Gourlay) (1)
2008: 14th (Nigel Seaman) (3)
2007: 4th (Frans Violet) (10)
2006: 3rd (Nigel Seaman) (12)
2005: 16th (Peter Parkes) (1)
2004: 3rd at Grand Shield (P. Parkes) (prom): 7th (Peter Parkes) (17)
2003: DNC
2002: DNC
2001: 19th (Peter Parkes) (12) (rel)
2000: 20th (Peter Parkes) (19)
Fairey Band
Conductor: Garry Cutt
Open Record:
It is well known that Fairey has a magnificent Open history, but the Stockport band has now gone the longest period in their history without adding to their total of 16 wins.
That barren streak surely won’t last much longer - not if they continue to build on the impressive musical foundations laid by MD Garry Cutt.
The Marple Maestro already has four Open wins to his credit and if Fairey can just up their form by a notch or two they could give him his fifth. This is the type of music he has made his reputation on, and with a band full to the brim with confidence and quality both in ensemble and key solo spots, this may be their year.
Player to listen out for:
Paul Hughes - A top class principal cornet with music in his heart. Such a classy performer.
Principal players:
Principal Cornet: Paul Hughes
Principal Euphonium: Jim Fieldhouse
Soprano: Jon Probert
Solo Trombone: Rebecca Lundberg
Solo Horn: Siobhan Bates
Flugel: Mike Eccles
Baritone: Rob Richardson
Eb Tuba: Harry Cunningham
Bb Tuba: Chris Hardy
4BR Ranking: 11
2015 Form:
Regionals: Winners (North West)
Appearances: 72nd time
Debut: 1938
Open Record:
16 Wins: 1941, 1942, 1944, 1945, 1947, 1949, 1950, 1956, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1965, 1979, 1987, 1993, 1998
14 Seconds: 1943, 1946, 1948, 1953, 1960, 1967, 1975, 1982, 1986, 1988, 1991, 1995, 1997, 2010
5 Thirds: 1969, 1977, 1984, 1992, 1999
6 Fourths: 1959, 1971, 1996, 2000, 2003, 2005
3 Fifths: 1985, 2006, 2013
7 Sixths: 1951, 1957, 1970, 1978, 1990, 2001, 2002
20 times unplaced
Open Record since 2000:
Conductor and draw
2014: 9th (Garry Cutt) (16)
2013: 5th (Garry Cutt) (15)
2012: 10th (Russell Gray) (16)
2011: 11th (Russell Gray) (17)
2010: 2nd (Russell Gray) (12)
2009: 12th (Philip Chalk) (7)
2008: 15th (Philip Chalk) (8)
2007: 7th (Philip Chalk) (12)
2006: 5th (Simon Stonehouse) (8)
2005: 4th (Simon Stonehouse) (9)
2004: 12th (Allan Withington (11)
2003: 4th (Allan Withington) (9)
2002: 6th (Allan Withington) (19)
2001: 6th (Howard Snell) (2)
2000: 4th (James Gourlay) (17)
Foden's
Conductor: Allan Withington
Open Record:
Foden’s will be looking for a return to title winning form at the British Open this year - as their last top flight success at a major contest came here in 2012.
Since then they have been just off the pace - although not by much - so a podium finish or a thirteenth victory should once again be within their powerful grasp if they are at their best, although they have been a little wayward at times of late too.
When the musical combination does click with their MD then they have a safe-full of goodies that can sparkle like diamonds - from top notch soloists to rock solid ensemble - and more than good enough to claim a thirteenth title.
Player to listen out for:
David Thornton - A superb musician and euphonium performer of the rarest musical quality.
Principal players:
Principal Cornet: Mark Wilkinson
Principal Euphonium: David Thornton
Soprano: Richard Poole
Solo Horn: Steve Ridler
Flugel: David Gillson
Solo Trombone: John Barber
Baritone: Sarah Lenton
Eb Tuba: Stewart Baglin
Bb Tuba: David McGlynn
4BR Ranking: 4
2015 Form:
Regionals: 2nd (North West)
Appearances: 76th time
Debut: 1909
Open Record:
12 Wins: 1909, 1910, 1912, 1913, 1915, 1926, 1927, 1928, 1964, 2004, 2008, 2012
6 Seconds: 1911, 1916, 1952, 1987, 1998, 2002
7 Thirds: 1914, 1925, 1957, 1970, 1981, 1985, 2007
8 Fourths: 1958, 1965, 1986, 1991, 2010, 2011, 2013, 2014
8 Fifths: 1918, 1953, 1968, 1972, 1988, 1996, 1999, 2000
5 Sixths: 1917, 1984, 1994, 2005, 2009
29 times unplaced
Open Record since 2000:
Conductor and draw
2013: 4th (Allan Withington) (12)
2013: 4th (Allan Withington) (13)
2012: Winners (Allan Withington) (9)
2011: 4th (Allan Withington) (15)
2010: 4th (Howard Snell) (17)
2009: 6th (Garry Cutt) (5)
2008: Winners (Garry Cutt) (10)
2007: 3rd (Garry Cutt) (3)
2006: 13th (Garry Cutt) (9)
2005: 6th (Garry Cutt) (18)
2004: Winners (Garry Cutt) (12)
2003: 7th (Thomas Wyss) (3)
2002: 2nd (Bramwell Tovey) (8)
2001: 7th (Bramwell Tovey) (3)
2000: 5th (Bramwell Tovey) (9)
Flowers
Conductor: Paul Holland
Open Record:
Flowers came pretty close last year to being only the second band in history to win the Grand Shield and British Open in the same year - with a superb early performance under Paul Holland that eventually came third.
They have been busy in the recruitment stakes since - although the addition of Iain Culross on principal cornet is due to the impending paternal duties of Andrew Smith (who may have to make a quick exit from the solo cornet bench!)
So much confidence about what they do - and it isn’t misplaced either. If they can just add that extra sheen of polish, then who knows? A win wouldn’t be such a shock.
Player to listen out for:
David Childs - Need we say anything more.
Principal players:
Principal Cornet: Iain Culross
Principal Euphonium: David Childs
Soprano: Paul Richards
Solo Trombone: Rob Marsh
Solo Horn: Paul Bennett
Flugel: Will Norman
Baritone: Ben Stratford
Eb Tuba: Carlton Sykes
Bb Tuba: John Gillam
4BR Ranking: 8
2015 Form:
Butlins Mineworkers: Winners
Regionals: Winners (West of England)
Appearances: 8th time
Debut: 1998
Open Record:
No wins
1 third: 2014
6 unplaced
Open Record since 2000:
Conductor and draw
2014: Winners of Grand Shield (Paul Holland) (prom): 3rd (Paul Holland) (5)
2013: DNC
2012: DNC
2011: DNC
2010: DNC
2009: DNC
2008: 12th (David Hirst) (14) (rel)
2007: Winners of Grand Shield (Philip Harper) (prom): 17th (Philip Harper) (8)
2006: DNC
2005: DNC
2004: DNC
2003: DNC
2002: DNC
2001: 21st (Philip Harper) (15) (rel)
2000: 18th (Richard Evans) (1)
Grimethorpe Colliery
Conductor: Dr Robert Childs
Open Record:
Just the memorable quartet of wins so far for Grimethorpe with the last back in 1991 - so for their legions of fans worldwide (many of who they just entertained in Australia) - a fifth is long overdue.
The Open hasn’t been the happiest of hunting grounds of late - not helped it must be said by two terrible draws in the last two years - so fingers are crossed.
If fate deals them a kindly hand then they could be right in the mix - thanks to the MDs forensic approach to the score and his player’s ability to put his ideas into practice. If things do come off Symphony Hall could erupt.
Player to listen out for:
Roger Webster - The Daddy is back. Don’t miss him.
Principal players:
Principal Cornet: Roger Webster
Principal Euphonium: Michael Dodd
Soprano: Kevin Crockford
Solo Trombone: Chris Gommersall
Solo Horn: Miles Davison
Flugel: Laura Sneath Hirst
Baritone: Michael Cavanagh
Eb Tuba: Shaun Crowther
Bb Tuba: Jon Beaumont
4BR Ranking: 5
2015 Form:
Regionals: 2nd (Yorkshire)
Appearances: 69th time
Debut: 1935
Open Record:
4 Wins: 1967, 1969, 1984, 1991
4 Seconds: 1945, 1963, 1973, 2008
11 Thirds: 1960, 1961, 1968, 1971, 1979, 1983, 1987, 1990, 1994, 2000, 2009
4 Fourths: 1972, 1998, 2001, 2012
7 Fifths: 1976, 1981, 1989, 1992, 1995, 1997, 2007
3 Sixths: 1946, 1980, 1985
35 times unplaced
Open Record since 2000:
Conductor and draw
2014: 8th (Robert Childs) (1)
2013: 10th (Luc Vertommen) (2)
2012: 4th (Garry Cutt) (17)
2011: 9th (Garry Cutt) (16)
2010: 9th (Allan Withington) (15)
2009: 3rd (Allan Withington) (3)
2008: 2nd (Allan Withington) (6)
2007: 5th (Allan Withington) (4)
2006: 9th (Allan Withington) (4)
2005: 12th (Allan Withington) (4)
2004: 9th (Frank Renton) (9)
2003: DNC
2002: 14th (James Gourlay) (10)
2001: 4th (Garry Cutt) (13)
2000: 3rd (Garry Cutt) (20)
Hammonds Saltaire
Conductor: Morgan Griffiths
Open Record:
Hammonds Saltaire certainly made their mark last year as they claimed sixth place and more than held their own against a field of the highest class rivals.
That was superb achievement and testament to the commitment of MD Morgan Griffiths and his young band. Now comes the hard part of trying to show that it wasn’t a one-off.
They didn’t quite play to their very best at the Yorkshire Area, and a solid fourth place was really par for the course amid a weak Masters field, so the pressure may be on. However, the quality is there all round the stands and with more than a little breathing space over hard pressed rivals they could really go for it this time around.
Player to listen out for:
Jamie Smith - One of the generation of fearless young principal cornet players who develops with musical maturity year on year.
Principal players:
Principal Cornet: Jamie Smith
Principal Euphonium: Matthew Allsop
Soprano: David Nichols
Solo Trombone: Joanne Raesbeck
Solo Horn: Chris Pannell
Flugel: Catherine Owen
Baritone: Michael Walsh
Eb Tuba: Owen Garbutt
Bb Tuba: Darran West
4BR Ranking: 26
2015 Form:
Regionals: 8th (Yorkshire)
Al England Masters: 4th
Appearances: 35th time
Debut: 1970
Open Record:
4 Wins: 1997, 1999, 2001, 2003
1 Second: 1989
2 Thirds: 1995, 2005
3 Fourths: 1977, 1981, 1990
1 Fifth: 1973
3 Sixths: 1996, 2000, 2014
20 times unplaced
Open Record since 2000:
Conductor and draw
2014: 2nd Grand Shield (Morgan Griffiths) (prom); 6th (Morgan Griffiths) (17)
2012: DNC
2011: DNC
2010: DNC
2009: 13th (Morgan Griffiths) (17) (rel)
2008: 16th (Morgan Griffiths) (5)
2007: 8th (Richard Evans) (18)
2006: 8th (David King) (3)
2005: 3rd (David King) (14)
2004: 14th (David King) (8)
2003: Winners (David King) (10)
2002: 9th (David King) (9)
2001: Winners (David King) (10)
2000: 6th (David King) (3)
Kirkintilloch
Conductor: Russell Gray
Open Record:
Kirkintilloch has shown remarkable tenacity in maintaining their record of consecutive appearances at the British Open since their debut in 2001 - and they may have to show that in spades this time around if they are not to return to the Grand Shield.
It’s also good to see Russell Gray in action with the baton and he may just hold the key with his musical interpretation if his players can deliver on his musical intentions.
The form book hasn’t been too great of late, but that doesn’t count for much if the inspiration starts coursing through the veins.
Player to listen out for:
Gordon Jenkins - The former Stanley Wainright ‘Best Instrumentalist’ Award winner at this event continues to deliver at the very highest level with his usual musical excellence.
Principal players:
Principal Cornet: Gregory Chaplin
Principal Euphonium: Andy Robson
Soprano: Gordon Jenkins
Solo Trombone: Helen Douthwaite
Solo Horn: Rachel Neil
Flugel: Claire McLeravie
Baritone: Gareth Ross
Eb Tuba: Lauren McCormick
Bb Tuba: Ian Squince
4BR Ranking: 29
2015 Form:
Regionals: 5th (Scotland)
West Lothian Festival: 4th
Appearances: 15th time
Debut: 2001
Open Record:
1 Fourth: 2004
1 Fifth: 2008
12 times unplaced
Open Record since 2000:
Conductor and draw
2014: 17th (David Roberts) (3)
2013: 2nd at Grand Shield (P. McCann) (prom); 7th (David Roberts) (10)
2012: 14th (Paul Holland) (14) (rel)
2011: 2nd at Grand Shield (G. Cutt) (prom): 16th (Luc Vertommen) (3)
2010: 17th (Garry Cutt) (10) (rel)
2009: 9th (Selmer Simonsen) (2)
2008: 5th (Selmer Simonsen) (15)
2007: 18th (Nigel Boddice) (2)
2006: 7th (Steve Bastable) (2)
2005: 13th (Steve Bastable) (8)
2004: 4th (Steve Bastable) (16)
2003: 11th (Frank Renton) (16)
2002: 12th (Frank Renton) (6)
2001: Winners of Grand Shield (A. Ramsay) (prom): 16th (Allan Ramsey) (19)
Leyland
Conductor: Thomas Wyss
Open Record:
A rather puzzling performance from Leyland saw them end as a midfield finisher last year - and carried on a rather hit and miss run of form here since their return in 2008.
At their best they are a band to fear, although their admirable musical risk taking has sometimes seen them come a cropper - notably at the North West Area this year.
However, with Michael Bach now taking Luzern, the baton has been passed to his countryman Thomas Wyss (via North Wales), so perhaps a few less impassioned fireworks, but still plenty of fizz, verve and precision should be on show.
Player to listen out for:
Vincent Bearpark - The Swiss import is a remarkable cornet player who will surely add something special to Leyland’s performance.
Principal players:
Principal Cornet: Vincent Bearpark
Principal Euphonium: James McLeod
Soprano: Joe Martin
Solo Trombone: Simon Moore
Solo Horn: Rebecca Doyle
Flugel: John Doyle
Baritone: Ashley Jeffers
Eb Tuba: Chris Doran
Bb Tuba: Bill Carter
4BR Ranking: 16
2015 Form:
Regionals: 6th (North West)
Appearances: 43rd time
Debut: 1948
Open Record:
1 Win: 1994
3 Seconds: 1981, 1990, 1992
3 Thirds: 1989, 1991, 1996
4 Fourths: 1985, 1988, 2008, 2009
1 Fifth: 1993
3 Sixths: 1982, 1998, 2012
27 times unplaced
Open Record since 2000:
Conductor and draw
2014: 11th (Michael Bach) (6)
2013: 15th (Michael Bach) (6)
2012: 6th (Michael Bach) (11)
2011: 10th (Jason Katsikaris) (11)
2010: 12th (Philip Harper) (6)
2009: 4th (Jason Katsikaris) (13)
2008: Winners of Grand Shield (J. Katsikaris) (prom): 4th (Jason Katsikaris) (4)
2007: DNC
2006: DNC
2005: DNC
2004: DNC
2003: 14th (Peter Bassano) (5) (rel)
2002: 11th (Garry Cutt) (5)
2001: 9th (Brian Grant) (5)
2000: 10th (Howard Snell) (10)
Milnrow
Conductor: Mark Bentham
Open Record:
Milnrow more held their own and defied the critics last year with a solid performance in coming twelfth.
It means a third Open appearance for the hard working North West band that has a fine mix of youth and experience around the stands - something that should hold them in good stead once again under the direction of the experienced Mark Bentham.
He has certainly shown over the years how to make the most of his resources - and that was clearly on display as they bounced back from a poor Area result to come runner-up at the Masters. More of that form and they could well look forward to another Open appearance next year.
Player to listen out for:
John Lees - A vastly experienced performer who has the indispensible quality to shine both as a soloist or a section player.
Principal players:
Principal Cornet: Hayley Moore
Principal Euphonium: Mick Morris
Soprano Cornet: Kenny Pain
Solo Trombone: Ellena Newton
Solo Horn: Helen Clarke
Flugel: John Lees
Baritone: Michael Thewliss
Eb Tuba: Gordon Clarke
Bb Tuba: Matthew Beazley
4BR Ranking: 34
2015 Form:
Regionals: 9th (North West)
All England Masters: 2nd
Appearances: 3rd time
Debut: 2013
Open Record:
2 unplaced
Open Record since 2000:
Conductor and draw
2014: 12th (Mareika Gray) (7)
2013: Winners of Grand Shield (Mareika Gray) (prom); 13th (Mareika Gray (7)
2012: 8th (Mareika Gray)
2011: 8th (Mareika Gray)
2010: 4th in Senior Cup (Andrew White) (prom)
2009: Winners of Senior Trophy (John Ward) (prom)
2008: 10th (John Ward)
2007: 6th (Andrew White)
2006: DNC
2005: DNC
2004: DNC
2003: DNC
2002: DNC
2001: DNC
2000: DNC
Rothwell Temperance
Conductor: David Roberts
Open Record:
A welcome return to the British Open for Rothwell after two hard years of grafting at the Grand Shield.
Their victory at Blackpool in May was thoroughly deserved (and off an early draw) and showed that after a period of rebuilding they are once again back to being one of the best prepared and motivated bands around.
That was first shown at the Scottish Open late last year and then brilliantly built upon at the Yorkshire Area in March where they were immensely unfortunate that a third placed finish didn’t send them to London.
More of that confident, determined playing will see them as a band to watch out for this weekend.
Player to listen out for:
Andy Padgett - Age does not weary, and still one of the classiest baritone players around.
Principal players:
Principal Cornet: Tim Hammond
Principal Euphonium: Christian Dullea
Soprano: Jonathon Hammond
Solo Horn: Catherine Roberts
Flugel: Vikki Holland
Solo Trombone: Nick Walker
Baritone: Andy Padgett
Eb Tuba: Simon Moffat
Bb Tuba: Ben Ridgeon
4BR Ranking: 15
2015 Form:
Regionals: 3rd (Yorkshire)
Grand Shield: Winners
Appearances: 19th time
Debut: 1927
Open Record:
1 Fifth: 2005
2 Sixth: 1928, 2010
15 times unplaced
Open Record since 2000:
Conductor and draw
2015: Winners of Grand Shield (David Roberts) (prom):
2014: DNC
2013: DNC
2012: 17th (David Roberts) (2) (rel)
2011: 12th (David Roberts) (7)
2010: 6th (David Roberts) (9)
2009: Winners of Grand Shield (David Roberts) (prom); 15th (David Roberts) (11)
2008: 17th (Dave Roberts) (2) (rel)
2007: 9th (David Roberts) (1)
2006: 14th (David Roberts) (10)
2005: 5th (David Roberts) (12)
2004: 2nd at Grand Shield (David Roberts) (prom): 15th (David Roberts) (14)
2003: DNC
2002: DNC
2001: DNC
2000: DNC
Tredegar
Conductor: Ian Porthouse
Open Record:
Which Tredegar will turn up at the Open this year we wonder? The one inspired to deliver a truly remarkable winning performance on ‘Arabian Nights’ or the one that sounded rather exhausted in coming 10th last year.
The band’s innovative musical direction has taken them away from the contest stage recently (including the ballet), but when they hit form under the spotlight they are formidable opponents - as they showed in bouncing back at London last year.
Ian Porthouse has a settled band under this command that revels in hard graft and a desire to keep improving - so if they are rested and imbued with that ‘Swan Lake’ spirit they should once again be battling it out for the prizes.
Player to listen out for:
Danny Winder - He may look like he could wrestle a bull elephant to the ground with his bare hands, but with a flugel horn in his mitts he is some player.
Principal players:
Principal Cornet: Dewi Griffiths
Principal Euphonium: Matthew White
Soprano: Ian Roberts
Solo Trombone: Iwan Williams
Solo Horn: Hannah Drage
Flugel: Danny Winder
Baritone: Georgina Evans
Eb Tuba: Lewis Rees
Bb Tuba: Ceri John
4BR Ranking: 3
2015 Form:
Regionals: 2nd (Wales)
Appearances: 21st time
Debut: 1976
Open Record:
2 Wins: 2010, 2013
1 Second: 1996
2 Sixths: 1997, 2011
15 times unplaced
Open Record since 2000:
Conductor and draw
2014: 10th (Ian Porthouse) (15)
2013: Winners (Ian Porthouse) (8)
2012: 15th (Ian Porthouse) (12)
2011: 6th (Ian Porthouse) (14)
2010: Winners of Grand Shield (I. Porthouse) (prom); Winners (Ian Porthouse) (8)
2009: DNC
2008: DNC
2007: DNC
2006: DNC
2005: 18th (Thomas Wyss) (5) (rel)
2004: 19th (Russell Gray) (15)
2003: 9th (Russell Gray) (18)
2002: 8th (Steve Bastable) (18)
2001: 13th (Steve Bastable) (17)
2000: 8th (Steve Bastable) (12)
Woodfalls
Conductor: Erik Janssen
Open Record:
After winning the Grand Shield in 1974, the band made their debuts under the baton of the late, great Courtney Bosanko and competed at Belle Vue for three years before losing their invitation status.
They returned again in 1986 following their second Grand Shield victory under Wesley Garner, this time lasting two years before they fell through the trap door.
30 years later and a very solid outfit takes to the stage once more - this time under the baton of Erik Janssen. They have enjoyed some excellent form of late under some high profile conductors, so they certainly won’t be out of their depth here.
Player to listen out for:
Phil Randell - A wonderful horn player of vast experience and musical nuance.
Principal players:
Principal Cornet: Jan Boler
Principal Euphonium: Lilian Meurin
Soprano: Mark Pye
Solo Trombone: Brett Baker
Solo Horn: Phil Randell
Flugel: Chris Lewis
Baritone: Graham Lawrence
Eb Tuba: Ian Frost
Bb Tuba: Jim Slade
4BR Ranking: 18
2015 Form:
Butlins Mineworkers Championship: 3rd
Regionals: 9th (West of England)
Grand Shield: 2nd
Appearances: 6th time
Debut: 1974
Open Record:
No Wins:
5 times unplaced
Open Record since 2000:
Conductor and draw
2015: 2nd Grand Shield (Robert Childs) (prom)
2000 - 2014: DNC
