4barsrest.com | eMagazine

Forum Chairman delighted at growing Welsh success

NEWS

The top man of Welsh banding has much to be proud about he tells 4BR after Spring Festival success.

Iestyn Davies, Chairman of Welsh banding’s representative body, Brass Band Forum Wales, (Fforwm Bandiau Press Cymru), has told 4BR that he believes that the movement in the Principality continues to build progressively both on and off the contest stage following Welsh success at the Spring Festival in Blackpool on the weekend.

Results

The results were headed by Seindorf Beaumaris, who gained qualification to the British Open in September, with Northop winning the Senior Cup and Burry Port and Tylorstown gaining promotion from the Senior Trophy.

"It’s been an excellent weekend for Welsh banding," Iestyn told 4BR.

"My congratulations go to all our eight representatives. It’s especially pleasing to report success for the bands from North Wales, with Beaumaris now joining Cory and Tredegar at the British Open and Northop winning the Senior Cup."

Good returns

Iestyn was also delighted that there were top 10 finishes for Tongwynlais and BTM in the Grand Shield, promotions for Burry Port and Tylorstown and encouraging performances from City of Cardiff (Melingriffith) and Wrexham Brass (Glyndwr).

"There is a great deal of hard work and commitment being put in at all levels of Welsh banding that is showing itself with an ever increasing strength in depth too. That was certainly the case in Blackpool."

On the up

Away from the contest stage, he believes the health of Welsh banding is on the up too.

"There is real co-operation between administrators and bands, with the Welsh League contests growing in popularity, entries to the Welsh Area increasing and optimism and excellence being shown at the very grass roots levels too."

Cautious

With the next meeting of the Brass Band Forum Wales due to take place in a few weeks time, the Chairman is cautiously optimistic that the future of Welsh banding is starting to look much healthier.

"I believe we have built sensibly on the official launch in Cardiff a few months ago. We are taking small, progressive steps, knowing that we have still got a great deal of work to do, but also knowing that we have a banding movement in Wales to be proud of."

Lippeatt gains positive feedback on trainee roles

NEWS

ABBA Chairman reports that there has been a positive feedback on routes into adjudication.

ABBA Chairman Stan Lippeatt has told 4BR that he has received 'positive feedback' following the publication of his recent article concerning routes into adjudication.

Positive

Stan told 4BR: "I'm pleased to report that I have already had positive feedback. The criteria for this system to operate was based on the goodwill and engagement of a trainee, adjudicator and contest organiser and everyone being flexible in this arrangement. On all three of these areas success has been achieved."

Contact

He added: "For example, I was contacted by Peter Gilby who informed me that the organisers of the Brass in Ripon Entertainment Contest would love to offer the opportunity for their event to be used for the above process.

The adjudicator at the event is Richard Evans who has also agreed to be involved in the project and the trainee taking up this development opportunity is Richard Jones of Brighouse & Rastrick."

Thanks

Stan concluded: "I would sincerely like to thank all parties involved, wish them a good day and look forward to the mentoring system growing, other opportunities arising and the on-going development of ABBA progressing."

MADhurst Festival set for new commissions

NEWS

The popular MADhurst Festival will feature two new brass band commissions.

This year’s MADhurst Festival on Sunday 19th August will feature two very special brass band events.

Fanfare and solo

In the afternoon a 60 piece band made up of some of the best young musical talent from across the UK will play music that will include, ‘Fanfare for the Future’, a festival commission written by Foden’s cornet player Andy Stevenson.

In addition there will also be the premiere of a new euphonium solo written for RNCM student Matthew Watling by composer Iain Mundy.

New pieces

Alistair Gibson, who put together the event this year told 4BR: "We have plans to make this year’s event even more special including new pieces that will be heard in public for the very first time.”

MADhurst Chairman Simon Goodale added: "We are very lucky to have someone like Alistair in our midst who can bring all these gifted young people from as far afield as Scotland to play at the Festival."

Response

Simon continued: "The response from the audience last year was tremendous and we are delighted that the Band are back for the second time and are proud that they have chosen MADhurst as the place to launch new works."

Festival

MADhurst is a nine day Festival of Music, Arts and Drama that takes place towards the end of August in and around Midhurst, West Sussex in the heart of the South Downs National Park.

The festival culminates with a carnival, music and theatre day on August Bank Holiday Monday with a spectacular firework finale. In 2011 over 6,000 people attended the finale event.

For more information go to: www.madhurst.co.uk

Skelmanthorpe set to illuminate Holmfirth

NEWS

There are some great attractions for young and old at the forthcoming Holmfirth Arts Festival - including some light and sound from Skelmanthorpe.

The popular Holmfirth Arts Festival will incorporate a number of brass band attractions this year during its eleven days of music, art, comedy, theatre and literature.

Award winning

The event runs from 14th to 24th June and will see performances from MOBO award winning trumpeter Matthew Halsall with Brighouse & Rastrick, as well as Skelmanthorpe Band.

Repiano

A great deal of interest has been created with an innovative art installation entitled, ‘Repiano’, which celebrates the sights and sounds of the brass band.

Made out of light and live music, and using digital projection, recorded sounds and players from Skelmanthorpe, it can be enjoyed in the interior of the local Holy Trinity Church, which will be transformed by a collage of music and sound.

More information:

http://holmfirthartsfestival.co.uk/event-detail/event-11-111.html

Hebden Bridge set for more march and hymns

NEWS

The popular Hebden Bridge March & Hymn Tune Contest will take place in June - so get your entries in...

The annual Hebden Bridge March & Hymn tune contest will take place on Sunday 17th June.

This is the fifth year of this popular event, which is held in the picturesque centre of Hebden Bridge as part of the Hebden Bridge Band Heritage Weekend.

This year the weekend includes a concert by the Hebden Bridge Band with guest Lesley Howie.

Prizes

Prizes are awarded for all sections including youth and will be judged by David Horsfield.

More information

There are still some vacancies available for any band wishing to enter.

Contact Steve Gardner on: 07813 110126

Shrewsbury add further to charity funds

NEWS

Shrewsbury Brass continues to raise funds for charitable causes.

Shrewsbury Brass has raised over £2000 for charity in the space of three weeks.

Further money

Following their inaugural concert in April conducted by Steve Pritchard-Jones, the band raised a further raised £1,158 for Muscular Dystrophy Campaign UK at their latest event.

Musical tack

During the first half the band performed a traditional programme including 'Cavalry of the Clouds' and 'Procession to the Minster', whilst they changed musical tack in the second to provide the audience with swing music from the greats such as Glen Miller and Frank Sinatra.

Loxley stalwart celebrates 70 years service

NEWS

Derek Garner has just notched up a remarkable 70 years of service with the Loxley Silver Band.

Stalwart Derek Garner was recently awarded lifetime membership of Loxley Silver Band in recognition of his remarkable 70 years of continuous service.

Award

The award was made at the band’s annual concert, where it was revealed that there has been a Garner family member in Loxley Silver Band, ever since the 1920’s.

Derek, joined later, as is evidenced by the recent recovery of the band’s archive documents which record Derek as having first paid his 3d subs on 16th January 1942, just six days after his 13th birthday.

Enthralled

The audience were then enthralled as MD Stuart Young introduced Derek’s grandson from the audience and invited him to join them on stage for the final part of the performance and to present his grandfather, now playing E flat bass, with his lifetime membership award for his remarkable 70 years of service to the band.

Home return for Wellington

NEWS

Wellington (Telford) Brass has made its long awaited return home.

Wellington (Telford) Brass Band has returned to their home town.

Return

In 2009 when the band found themselves homeless, RAF Cosford Voluntary Band stepped in and offered the band shared accommodation, but now they will return to the town that bears its name.

Thanks

A spokesperson told 4BR: "The band would like to offer their heartfelt thanks to all at RAF Cosford and in particularly Squadron-Leader Paul Dyson who made the arrangements as part of the RAF’s policy to help local communities."

Five live for Wardle

NEWS

Five ensembles from Wardle High School will perform at the Music for Youth Festival in Birmingham in July.

Wardle High School has confirmed that five of its musical groups have been selected to perform at the National Music for Youth Finals in Birmingham in July.

Selected

The school’s Senior Brass Band, the Symphonic Wind Band, Wind Band, Junior Brass Band and Percussion Group have been invited to the prestigious event.

Meanwhile, the members of the National Championship winning Smithy Bridge Primary School is starting to rehearse ahead of their forthcoming performance with the newly crowned European Champion Black Dyke.

Wonderful news

MD Lee Rigg told 4BR: "The news of the Festival for Youth appearances marks a wonderful achievement for everyone involved in the Wardle organisation. The pupils are a credit to the school as they work hard to continue the high standards it has always aimed to achieve."

Theme and variations for Smithills

NEWS

Smithills Schools Senior Band to perform at top American theme park on US tour.

A thrilling highlight has been added to the July tour of America by Smithills School Senior Brass Band.

Under the direction of MD Chris Wormald they will perform at Carowinds, one of America’s largest and most thrilling theme parks on the border of North and South Carolina.

Thrill

Chris told 4BR: "We enjoyed visiting Carowinds on three previous occasions between 2000 and 2007 but so far have never performed there. It will be a great thrill to play to such massive crowds on our America tour in July."

Imps welcome Belton sop

NEWS

Sop star John Belton heads to Yorkshire Imps from EYMS.

Yorkshire Imperial Urquhart Travel Band has confirmed the signing of the vastly experienced John Belton on soprano cornet.

John joins from East Yorkshire Motor Services Band to add his wealth of experience to the cornet section.

Essential

Band spokesperson Jessica Martin told 4BR: "We are thrilled to have such an experienced and dedicated player join our ranks. A quality soprano player is essential with our forthcoming busy contest and concert schedule."

Torquay open for invitations

NEWS

SWBBA Open Championships to be held in Torquay in November.

The South West Brass Band Association’s 66th annual Open Championships will be held on Saturday 3rd November at the Riviera International Conference Centre in Torquay.

Sections

The Championships will incorporate seven sections: Open (joint Championship/First); Second; Third; Fourth; Ungraded; Youth; Training Band, with 2012 National Grading being recognised. The adjudicators will be John Berryman and Paul Holland.

More information

The schedule and entry form is available from the Secretary, Brian Elliott
Telephone: 01752 892056
or email: ,
or by visiting the Association’s website www.southwestbrassbandassociation.co.uk.

Entries close 14th September 2012.

Advert: John Packer Musical Instruments

NEWS

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£250 of Denis Wick mutes

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Any mutes can be chosen from the Denis Wick range for any instrument or instruments.

Go to: http://www.deniswick.com/

The prize includes carriage to mainland UK only.

The prize has no nominal value and cannot be exchanged for cash. The winner is picked at random and will be notified by email.

Ellerby's Electra chosen as Open test

NEWS

Marin Ellerby's 'Electra' has been chosen as the set work for the 2102 British Open Championship as Besson pledge further support.

Martin Ellerby’s new composition ‘Electra’, will be used as the set work for the 160th British Open Championship at Symphony Hall later this year.

Elektra chord

In an interview with 4BR, the composer says the work is, ‘...loosely based on the play by Sophocles. The ‘Elektra Chord’ provides the signature chord and motivic elaboration used by composer Richard Strauss to represent the eponymous character of his opera Elektra.’

Support

The work, which is the first the composer has written for the event, has been commissioned jointly by the British Open and the Netherlands Brass Band Championship, and comes at a time when the Open has been boosted by the news that Besson will continue with its sponsorship support.

A spokesperson told 4BR: "We are all aware of the difficulties involved in organising brass band competitions in the current economic climate, and we value the investment that Besson continues to make in a number of areas, including our own contests, to support the British brass movement.

We look forward to our ongoing association with the Besson brand, and working with Lyndon Chapman and Sylvie Irvoas."

Approach

According to Martin, “There are three clear sections enabling development and a symphonic approach to writing. In performance it is played without a break though clearly linked by the common denominator of the chord that has driven it from the opening bars.”

Lust, Lament and Death

The three sections to the work are subtitled, ‘Lust for Revenge’ which is a highly charged element with an ensemble approach to the writing; the lyrically inspired ‘Laments’ where all the key solos occur and the musical language exploits the more poetic properties of the chord, and the final ‘Dance to Death’ which represents a return to rhythm as the main driving force.

Martin added: "The proportions of the work are crucial to the overall effect and this is the challenge to the conductor. We are now in the 21st century and yet this work is derived from a 20th century chord over a classical dramatic inspiration."

Final decision

He concluded: 2This piece is mine for you and ours for all – I have tried to give of my best in the knowledge that audiences will make a final decision on its longevity."

Martin Ellerby has dedicated the piece to Stan and Shirley Kitchen, ‘in appreciation of the support that they have given to me, both through Studio Music and their friendship for which I remain most grateful.’

Wilkinson honoured by presentation

NEWS

Mark Wilkinson, one of the great principal cornet players of top class banding has been honoured by his peers.

The Foden's Band has honoured principal cornet Mark Wilkinson, who has held the position with the band for the past 20 years.

Outstanding

His outstanding contribution over two decades was acknowledged at Bridgewater Hall in Manchester on Sunday during the band’s performance at the Great Northern Spring Brass Arts Festival.

To Mark's surprise, Band Chairman John Barber, presented him with a wonderful portrait picture illuminated by a number of quotations from some of the leading conductors he has worked under during his time with the Sandbach band, including Howard Snell, Allan Withington and Bramwell Tovey.

Tributes

Garry Cutt's citation read: "He is the last of a dying breed with his commitment and devotion to Foden's Band."

Howard Snell, the conductor who appointed Mark to the end chair had added: "A flawless servant to banding and Foden's in particular. A stellar player."

Stunned

Mark was totally unaware of the surprise presentation, but thanked the band for marking his achievement.

"I’m humbled to follow in the some of the all time greats who've played for Foden's throughout their history. I'm flattered that the current band has given me this keepsake which I really do appreciate."

National Finals test pieces announced

NEWS

A set of exciting works will be used at the National Finals this year - headed by Howard Snell's epic Ravel arrangement.

The list of works chosen as the test pieces for the 2012 National Finals has been released by event organisers Kapitol Promotions Ltd.

Stunning

There is sure to be a great deal of growing anticipation with the news that Howard Snell’s stunning arrangement of the music from the Second Suite of Ravel’s ‘Daphnis and Chloe’ will test the bands at the Royal Albert Hall.

The new arrangement enhances the existing concert version Snell scored over 25 year ago and which he used to help lead Desford Colliery Band to the European title in Cardiff in 1986.

'Daphnis and Chloe' is widely regarded as one of the greatest orchestral arrangements ever made for the brass band medium.

Young composers

There will also be a great deal of excitement at the news that Kapitol has commissioned new works from the pens of some of the leading young composers in the UK to be used at the Finals in Cheltenham.

First Section

First Section bands will have to get to grips with Tom Davoren’s ‘VIVAT!’, which celebrates the forthcoming Diamond Jubilee of Her Majesty the Queen.

Written in three continuous sections it is inspired by Hubert Parry’s coronation anthem ‘I Was Glad’, including a gentle opening ‘In Memorium’ evoking her father George VI, the following spirited ‘Coronation’ and a celebratory ‘Jubilate’.

Tom’s work, ‘Looking In – A Self Portrait for Brass Band’ was recently a prize winner at the 5th European Composer’s Competition in Rotterdam.

Second Section

There is a more traditional contrast for the bands in the Second Section as they tackle the Denis Wright arrangement of ‘Academic Festival Overture’ by Brahms.

The original was written in 1880 with the brass band version arranged in 1936. It has proven to be a popular contest and concert work ever since, and was used as the Second Section Finals test piece in 1984.

Third Section

‘Three Ancient Customs’ by R Huw Cole, the talented composer and conductor who has worked in and around Wales and the West of England over the past decade will provide a colourful test in the Third Section.

The work celebrates the traditions and customs of the hinterland of the Welsh borders including ‘Cwrw Bach’ (‘Small Beer’) ‘Mari Lwyd’ and ‘Wassail’.

The two Welsh elements of the work were featured for his suite, ‘Two Ancient Welsh Customs’ which was performed at the John Golland Composition Awards at the RNCM Festival of Brass in 2011.

Fourth Section

One of the youngest ever composers to write for a National Finals will be featured in the Fourth Section.

‘A British Isles Suite for Brass Band and Percussion’ written by the talented 17 year old Jonathan Bates, quotes some of the most famous British poets and prose writers.

The four movement work is inspired by Robert Burns, Dylan Thomas, William Butler Yeats and Williams Shakespeare, as well as the great English composers Elgar and Holst.

Each of the movements captures the essence of the writer’s poetic inspiration – from the Scottish highlands and unrequited Welsh love to Celtic dancing and English pomp and splendour.

Inspiration

Music Panel Secretary Alan Hope told 4BR: "There is a wide spread of music for the Finals this year, inspired in part by the celebrations of sporting and royal events."

All the works will be available from the publishers, Kirklees Music, Studio Music, R. Smith & Co and Prima Vista Music from June 1st.

National judges announced

NEWS

It's Snell, Cosh and Farr for London, with Renton, Wadsworth, Davies, White, Wilkinson, Maines, Kilroy and Hardy for Cheltenham.

The list of adjudicators who will make the all important decisions in the various sections of the Finals of the National Championships of Great Britian has been announced by Kapitol Promotions Ltd.

Respected

The Royal Albert Hall box will contain a trio of three highly respected musicians – all with considerable experience of performing at the very professional highest levels.

With Howard Snell’s magnificent new arrangement of the Second Suite from Ravel’s ‘Daphis and Chloe’ chosen as the set work, the selection of the former LSO principal trumpeter and Wren Orchestra conductor will be welcomed by both competitors and critics alike.

Joining Howard in Kensington on Saturday 20th October will be Paul Cosh and Ray Farr, both of whom have considerable experience at the very highest levels as conductors, judges and performers.

The decision means that for the first time since 1994, the banding movement’s most experienced adjudicator, David Read MBE will not appear in the box.

Cheltenham

In Cheltenham, an eclectic line up of experience will be utilised in the four sections, which take place on the weekend of the 22nd/23 September.

Frank Renton and Kevin Wadsworth will be charged with sorting out the bands in the First Section, with John Maines and Melvin White making the decisions in the Second.

Mark Wilkinson and Chris Davies will have the task of separating out the bands in the Third Section, with Mike Kilroy and Colin Hardy deciding things in the Fourth.

2012 National Finals Adjudication Panels:

Championship Section:
Howard Snell, Paul Cosh & Ray Farr

First Section:
Frank Renton & Kevin Wadsworth

Second Section:
John Maines & Melvin White

Third Section:
Mark Wilkinson & Chris Davies

Fourth Section:
Mike Kilroy & Colin Hardy

Report & Results: 2012 Spring Festival

NEWS

Hepworth makes emphatic return to British Open with Beaumaris at their side as Northop and Wakefield take Cup and Trophy titles.

Hepworth made an immediate return to the British Open in the most emphatic musical fashion in Blackpool by winning the Grand Shield for the second time in their history.

Directed by Russell Gray, the Yorkshire band bounced straight back to Symphony Hall following last year’s relegation with the celebrating players taking it in turns to raise the famous trophy high into the air on the Winter Garden’s stage amid the rousing strains of their signature tune ‘Pratty Flowers’.

Clear cut

After the disappointing result at the Area contest in Bradford, a scintillating rendition of ‘On the Shoulders of Giants’ gave them one of the most clear cut victories seen at the contest for many years.

“A super performance full of drama and detail – so musically shaped,” wrote adjudicator Dr Robert Childs, whilst fellow judge, Malcolm Brownbill was equally effusive. “A very strong, very well presented performance. So musical and authoritative as required.”

Outstanding

Bob later told 4BR: “It was a very good standard today with the top six worthy of the British Open. Hepworth was were outstanding though. They didn’t just play the music; they played it with such understanding. They were clear winners for us.”

The decision was greeted with almost universal approval from neutral listeners and rivals alike, as Hepworth sealed their place off the number 11 draw with a commanding sense of musical authority.

Well integrated runner up

Joining them at Symphony Hall will be Seindorf Beaumaris. They added an Open appearance to their CV following pre-qualification to the National Finals later this year, with ‘a performance of musical merit – so well integrated,’ according to the judges off the number 1 draw.

The band’s principal trombonist Jos Harris took the ‘Best Instrumentalist’ award for his fine individual contribution.

Unfortunately, MD Gwyn Hughes missed the celebrations as he headed home to play in a concert on Saturday evening, but revealed that he managed to keep in touch with the results thanks to 4BR.

“I kept checking on my phone, so I did get to enjoy the moment despite being miles away,” he chuckled, “Even though we knew we made a few little errors I thought we would be in with a real chance if the judges liked our musical approach – especially in the ‘Elegy’.

“That was certainly the case,” he added. “The players really responded to what I wanted to bring out of the score, and result shows once again shows the progress we are making as a young band.”

Team effort

Meanwhile, the winning MD Russell Gray headed to Scotland for a well earned break with his wife Marieka ahead of the arrival of their first child in July. He did however take the time to congratulate the whole Hepworth organisation for what he called, ‘a great team effort’.

“They made it easy for me,” he laughed. “The ground work had been done so well by the likes of Sean Conway and Steve Malcolm. This really was a great team effort. The players have put in a great deal of hard work and the organisation has been first rate. All I had to do was come in and hopefully put on the final layer of contest polish.”

English Nationals

The Scotsman certainly did that and more, leading the band back to the Open – and revealing that he will also be taking them to the English Nationals in June too.

“I was due to go to New Zealand, but with the baby due, I’ve swapped with Mike Fowles, and can now look forward to taking the band at Preston. I’m very grateful to Mike for this. I’m sure he’ll enjoy the trip and it means that even with my busy schedule, I can be close to home.”

He added: “Hepworth showed its quality on the weekend, and I can’t wait to return to start rehearsals ahead of Preston. This was a performance to be very proud off – and to build on further.”

Missing out

With just the two priceless qualification places up for grabs for Symphony Hall, it was pre-contest favourites Flowers who missed out in third.

They faced the long trip home knowing they could very little more to have made it four wins in a row in 2012 after delivering a powerful rendition off the number 3 draw that many people thought had done just enough to earn a Birmingham slot.

On what overall was a disappointing day of contesting fortunes for Scottish representatives, Exchange Communications Whitburn’s persuasive musical patina was just chipped enough to consign them to fourth.

Redbridge once again showed their consistency by claiming fifth place – their third consecutive top six finish at the contest, whilst Scottish Open champion Tongwynlais was sixth under Philip Harper.

Losing their Grand Shield status this year was the quartet of Staffordshire, Skelmanthorpe, Freckleton and Aveley & Newham.

For further coverage and interviews:

http://www.4barsrest.com/live/2012SpringFestival/?p=gallery
http://www.4barsrest.com/live/2012SpringFestival/?p=media

Senior Cup:

There was further North Wales delight in the Senior Cup, where Northop claimed their first ever Spring Festival title under the baton of Thomas Wyss.

Their performance of Martin Ellerby’s ‘Elgar Variations’ was described by David Read MBE, who was adjudicating with Paul Andrews, as, ‘full of musical colour and subtle shadings’.

Bounce and effervescence

Paul told the audience in his pre-results remarks that, “...the music required bounce and effervescence. The MDs needed to both feel as well as understanding this. The best certainly managed to bring out the musical elements of the songs and dances, with some very good solo playing on show.”

Northop’s MD Thomas Wyss was certainly happy that his deliberately controlled approach had found a resonance in the box. “It’s such a lovely work that I felt we had to bring out the lyrical qualities of the music – not just the technical ones.

All players really captured just what I wanted bring from the score, so when I heard what the judges were looking for I knew we were in with a good chance.”

Stress

The result was not achieved without some stress however, as Tom revealed. “Our solo euphonium Aled Williams was only discharged from hospital on Saturday morning and we had to make two fairly late changes on horn and flugel too, so for the band to perform so well shows that we are growing in confidence. It was also good to get a fairly late draw at a contest too, as we haven’t had much luck with that lately.”

The future looks bright then for Tom and his band. “We have been building towards a result like this for some time,” he added. “Now we have shown what we can do I think we can move to another level – hopefully by gaining entry to the Scottish Open later in the year.”

Excellent contest form

In a contest that fluctuated in standard amid the compact surroundings of the Pavilion Theatre, Aldbourne continued to show that their year long run of excellent contest form shows no sign of ending by coming runner under the baton of David Johnson.

Last year’s Senior Trophy winner booked promotion to the Grand Shield thanks in no small part to the individual contribution of ‘Best Instrumentalist’ award winner, principal cornet, Richard Hughes.

Promotion and relegation

Joining them just one step away from a Symphony Hall appearance in 2014 will be Hammonds Saltaire and Co-operative Funeralcare North West, both of whim gave solidly constructed performances under Morgan Griffiths and Jef Sparkes respectively.

At the other end of the results table, Unison Kinneil, Friary Guildford, Laganvale (Metal Technology) and Dalmellington will compete in the Senior Trophy in 2013 following relegation.

For further coverage and interviews:

http://www.4barsrest.com/live/2012SpringFestival/?p=gallery
http://www.4barsrest.com/live/2012SpringFestival/?p=media

Senior Trophy:

There can’t have been too many more delight MDs in the whole of Blackpool on the weekend than Michael Howley of Wakefield Metropolitan, after the young conductor led his band to victory in the Senior Trophy.

In a contest where numerous MDs failed to take account of the booming acoustic the vast Empress Ballroom created (despite only half the huge floor area being utilised), his intelligent musical approach on Martin Ellerby’s ‘Chivalry’, that placed an emphasis on coherent dynamics certainly found favour with John Doyle and Ian Brownbill in the box.

Nailed

“We didn’t want to be nailed to the wall today,” John stated categorically in his humorous, yet sharply observed pre-results analysis. “Some of the shed builders came armed with hammers and nails. In such a huge hall, it was obvious there was a need to hear the detail. That’s what we certainly wanted today.”

He added: “There was a lack of concentration on show at times – from players and MDs. There were a number of not very musical performances. The top two bands really stood out and the winners were excellent, but so many others were not very wary of what they were sounding like.”

No problems

No such problems though for the winners, as the MD, still on a high after his band’s first major victory for many years, and his first since taking the baton in January this year, told 4BR.

“I don’t think it’s really a piece that lends itself to heavy blowing,” Michael told 4BR. “It’s colourful and cinematic and the dynamics are so subtly graded. We have also been working on making a much more balanced ensemble sound, so that’s what I told the band I wanted to bring out – a controlled sounding musical picture.”

That was certainly what came across in the box, with the judges calling it, ‘very well managed’ and ‘a performance of quality’.

Praise

The MD was full of praise for his young band – one that has endured some rough times of late.

“Quite a few people had written us off a little while ago, but with a real influx of young players and some older heads I think we have now got the balance just right. We are growing together, ambitious and hard working. Everyone put 100% into this win.”

Although the win was certainly a team effort, principal euphonium Myron Thomas took the ‘Best Instrumentalist’ award for his excellent contribution.

Life

Despite the judges reservations about some of dynamic misdemeanours on the day, both adjudicators felt the top four qualifiers really did bring the piece to life.

In what was a good day overall for Welsh banding, Burry Port Town and Tylorstown showed that the run out they gave the piece at the recent Ebbw Vale contest was certainly beneficial as they once again couldn’t be separated by a crow bar in second and third, with Lochgelly salvaging dented Scottish pride by securing the last qualification place on offer.

A the other end of the table, the bottom six bands of Bon Accord, Drighlington, Hade Edge, Barton Town, Johnstone and Wrexham Brass (Glyndwr) will have to see if they are invited back in 12 months time.

For further coverage and interviews:

http://www.4barsrest.com/live/2012SpringFestival/?p=gallery
http://www.4barsrest.com/live/2012SpringFestival/?p=media

Full Results:

Grand Shield:

Test Piece: On the Shoulders of Giants (Peter Graham)
Draw: 9.30am
Commence: 10.30am
The Opera House

Adjudicators: Malcolm Brownbill & Dr Robert Childs

1. Hepworth (Russell Gray)*
2. Seindorf Beaumaris (Gwyn M. Evans)*
3. Flowers (Paul Holland)
4. Exchange Communications Whitburn (Ian Porthouse)
5. Redbridge (Jeremy Wise)
6. Tongwynlais Temperance (Philip Harper)
7. Marsden Silver Prize (Glyn Williams)
8. Co-operative Milnrow (Marieka Gray)
9. BTM (Phillip McCann)
10. Jaguar Land Rover (Dave Lea)
11. Pemberton Old Wigan DW (Mark Bentham)
12. Yorkshire Imperial Urquhart Travel (David Nesbitt)
13. Wingates (Andrew Berryman)
14. Mount Charles (Simon Dobson)
15. Thoresby Colliery (Garry Cutt)
16. Newstead Brass (Duncan Beckley)
17. Staffordshire (Nigel Seaman)**
18. Skelmanthorpe (John Roberts)**
19. Freckleton (Paul Dalton)**
20. Aveley & Newham (Nigel Taken)**

Best Instrumentalist: Jos Harris (Trombone) - Seindorf Beaumaris

*Top two bands qualify for the British Open
** Bottom four bands relegated to Senior Cup

Senior Cup:

Draw: 9.00am
Commence: 10.00am
The Empress Ballroom

Adjudicators: David Read MBE & Paul Andrews

1. Northop Silver (Thomas Wyss)*
2. Aldbourne (David Johnson)*
3. Hammonds Saltaire (Morgan Griffiths)*
4. Co-operative Funeralcare North West (Jef Sparkes)*
5. Ratby Co-operative (Michael Fowles)
6. Ashton Under Lyne (Simon Stonehouse)
7. Felling (Stephen Malcolm)
8. East Yorkshire Motor Services (Alan Morrison)
9. Derwent Brass (Keith Leonard)
10. Unite the Union (City of Sheffield) (Derek Renshaw)
11. Woodfalls (Dr Nicholas Childs)
12. Kingdom Brass (Andrew Duncan)
13. Blackburn & Darwen (Nick Sheppard)
14. NASUWT Riverside (David Roberts)
15. Fishburn (Huw Thomas)
16. Bo’ness & Carriden (Bryan Allan)
17. Unison Kinneil (Russ Young)**
18. Friary Guildford (Chris King)**
19. Laganvale (Metal Technology) (Ernest Ruddock)**
20. Dalmellington (Archie Hutchison)**

Best Instrumentalist: Richard Hughes (Principal Cornet) - Aldbourne

*Top four bands promoted to the Grand Shield
**Bottom four bands relegated to Senior Trophy

Senior Trophy:

Test Piece: Chivalry (Dr Martin Ellerby)
Draw: 10,00am
Commence: 11.00am
The Empress Ballroom

Adjudicators: Ian Brownbill & John Doyle

1. Wakefield Metropolitan (Michael Howley)*
2. Burry Port Town (Michael Thorne)*
3. Tylorstown (Gary Davies)*
4. Lochgelly (Allan Ramsey)*
5. Sovereign Brass (David Maplestone)
6. St Dennis (Darren Hawken)
7. Oldham Lees (John Collins)
8. Wantage Silver A (Phil Bailey)
9. Longridge (Mark Peacock)
10. City of Cardiff (Melingriffith) (Gareth Ritter)
11. Bournemouth Concert (Major David Barringer)
12. Easington Colliery Brass (Chris Bentham)
13. Newtongrange (Paul Drury)
14. Hatfield Colliery (Graham O’Connor)
15. Bon-Accord (Alan Duguid)
16. Drighlington (Jim Davies)
17. Hade Edge (Simon Wood)
18. Barton Town (Richard Evans)
19. Johnstone (Paul Kiernan)
20. Wrexham Brass Glyndwr (Stephen Curtis)

Best Instrumentalist: Myron Thomas (Euphonium) - Wakefield Metropolitan

*Top four bands promoted to the Senior Cup

2012 Whit Friday details announced

NEWS

The details of this year's Whit Friday contests taking place on Friday 1st June have been released.

The details for this year's Whit Friday march contests that will take place on 1st June have been released by the organisers Saddleworth and Oldham District and Tameside Council.

Council and private sponsorship

This year, around £60,000 is up for grabs courtesy of financial support from Oldham Council and private sponsorship within Tameside.

Oldham Council has once again generously supported the Saddleworth & Oldham District Whit Friday contests along with support from Saddleworth and Lees District Partnership.

Funding

Over in Tameside, funding has been received from 103.6FM Tameside Radio and BMS Motorist Superstore

The organisers at all the venues in conjunction with Tameside Council remind bands to visit the website which gives bands and spectactors all the information needed for Whit Friday.

The website address is: www.tamesidebrassbands.org

Spot prize

In a bid to entice bands during what can be a quiet period between 8pm and 9.30pm, Denshaw contest is offering an extra £100 to a band that books during this time and is subsequently drawn out of the hat at the end of the evening. This is open to all bands, regardless of which section they are in, but in accordance with the rules, a band can not win more than more than one prize on the night. If the winner is featured in the prizes, another band will be drawn out.

Plan ahead

Both councils have informed 4BR that they are working hard to ensure that road works which could cause any traffic problems are kept to a minimum on what is the start of a Bank Holiday weekend. The advice to the bands however is plan ahead of the day itself.

Farr, Hardy, Kilroy, Webster to decide

The line up of judges who will spend eight hours or more in caravans and tents has also been confirmed.

Ray Farr, Alan Fernie, Colin Hardy, Paul Holland, Mike Kilroy and Dr Roger Webster will be amongst those scattered around the venues.

Volunteers

The success of Whit Friday is helped by the dedication of volunteers, but contests can never be short of enough helpers.

If you can offer your help to a contest, please contact them asap.

The full list of Whit Friday contests is as follows:

Tameside:

Area Open Champions: £2,500, 2nd: £1,000, 3rd: £750
Local Area Champion: £750, 2nd: £600, 3rd: £400

Tameside Whit Friday Contests are supported in 2012 by 103.6FM Tameside Radio and BMS Motorist Superstore.

Audenshaw:
www.clubbz.com/club/4633/manchester/aldwinians_rufc_brass_band_contest_2010

Contest: 4.00pm - 10.30pm
Aldwinians Rugby Club
Main Prize: £700 from a total prize fund of £2,525
Adjudicator: Paul Holland
Contact: Sylvia Donley (0161 336 6814, 07947 018175)

Broadoak:
Contest: 5.00pm – 10.30pm
Broadoak Hotel
Main Prize: £500 from a total prize fund of £1,600
Adjudicator: Dr Roger Webster
Contact: tbc

Carrbrook:
www.carrbrookvillage.users.btopenworld.com/band.htm

Contest: 4.30pm - 10.30pm
Carr Rise
Main Prize: Awaiting confirmation
Adjudicator: John Davies
Contact: Pete Sims (07549956941)

Denton:
Contest: 4.00pm - 10.45pm
Main Prize: £250 from a total prize fund of £1,305
Adjudicator: Mike Lyons
Contact: Mrs Joan Emery (0161 2925319)

Droylsden:
Contest: 4.30pm -11.00pm
The Bush Inn
Main Prize: Awaiting confirmation
Adjudicator: Adrian Morris
Contact: George Fairclough (0161 3702811)

Dukinfield:
Contest: 4.30pm - 11.00pm
Tame Valley Hotel
Main Prize: Awaitig confirmation
Adjudicator: Dave Chapman
Contact: Brian Hill (0161 3390072)

Heyrod:
www.heyrodbandcontest.com

Contest: 4.30pm -10.30pm
John Street
Main Prize: £600 from a total prize fund of £1,765
Adjudicator: A. McLaughlin
Contact: Bob Lear (0161 338 2003)

Hurst Village:
Contest: 4.30pm - 11.00pm
Ashton United FC
Main Prize: £300 from a total prize fund of £1,300
Adjudicator: Gareth Pritchard
Contact: Denise Pinder (0161 308 4076, 07785 531221)

Stalybridge:
Contest: 4.30pm - 10.30pm
Stalybridge Labour Club
Main Prize: Awaiting confirmation
Adjudicator: Paul White
Contact: Phil Watton (0161 3555818)

Stalybridge Celtic:
Contest: 4.30pm - 10.45pm
Stalybridge Celtic FC
Main Prize: £400 from a total prize fund of 1,250
Adjudicator: C. Evans
Contact: Gordon Greenwood (07770 433336)

Upper Mossley:
Contest: 4.30pm - 10.00pm
Mountain Street
Main Prize: £500 from a total prize fund of £1,440
Adjudicator: M. Tweedle
Contact: Margaret Gaskell (01457 832752)

Find the venue:

To enable bands to plan their routes and find the contest venues, visit the following link: www.tamesidebrassbands.org/

Further details:

Further details for the Tameside Contests are available from 0161 342 4144

Saddleworth & Oldham District:

Area Open Champions: £2,500, 2nd: £1,000, 3rd: £750, Youth: £250
Local Area Champion: £750, 2nd: £600, 3rd: £400

Saddleworth & Oldham Contests are supported in 2012 by Oldham Council and Saddleworth and Lees District Partnership

Delph:
www.delph-whit-friday.co.uk

Contest: 4.15pm - 10.30pm
Main Prize: £1,000 from a total prize fund of £3,915
Adjudicator: Mike Kilroy
Contact: Mr R. Rodgers (01457 874354)

Denshaw:
Contest: 4.15pm - 10.45pm
Main Prize: £750 from a total prize fund of £2,790
Adjudicator: A. Holdsworth
Contact: A. Baxter (07920763979)

Diggle:
Contest: 4.15pm - 10.30pm
Main Prize: £650 from a total prize fund of £2,245
Adjudicator: Duncan Beckley
Contact: B. Cliffe (01457 873901)

Dobcross:
Contest: 4.30pm - 10.00pm
Main Prize: £750 from a total prize fund of £2,405
Adjudicator: Colin Hardy
Contact: A Cockburn (01457 820960)

Friezland:
3rd, 4th & Youth Sections only
Contest: 4.30pm - 10.30pm
Main Prize: £150 from a total prize fund of £475
Adjudicator: T. Newbigging
Contact: J. Barrett (01457 870612)

Greenacres:
Contest: 4.30pm - 10.30pm
Main Prize: £750 from a total prize fund of £2,405
Adjudicator: Brian Rostron
Contact: A. Clayton (0161 678 7255)

Greenfield:
Contest:4.30pm - 10.00pm
Main Prize: £1,000 from a total prize fund of £3,880
Adjudicator: Ray Farr
Contact: J. Buckley (01457 874794)

Grotton:
Contest: 4.00pm - 10.00pm
Main Prize: £600 from a total prize fund of £2,015
Adjudicator: Roy Roe
Contact: G. Beverley (07932 747590)

Lydgate:
Contest: 4.30pm -10.30pm
Main Prize: £800 from a total prize fund of £2,715
Adjudicator: Derek Southcott
Contact: L. Bearpak (01457 872566)

Lees and Springhead:
Contest: 4.30pm - 10.00pm
Main Prize: £500 from a total prize fund of £1,710
Adjudicator: Alan Fernie
Contact: W. Cullen (0161 6267625)

Scouthead and Austerlands:
Contest: 4.30pm -11.00pm
Main Prize: £800 from a total prize fund of £3,650
Adjudicator: C Brian Buckley
Contact: D. Needham (0161 6520341)

Uppermill:
Contest: 4.00pm - 10.30pm
Main Prize: £1,000 from a total prize fund of £2,860
Adjudicator: David Marshall
Contact: T. Hopkinson (01457 876010)

Report & Results: 2012 Grenland Festival

NEWS

Krohnengen top the three legged Grenland Festival.

The unique Grenland Festival recently took place in Norway, where a host of bands battled it out over the three individual disciplines of test piece, church music and own choice programme to decide the prizes amid the beautiful local surroundings.

Mnozil gala

The Festival ended with a Gala Concert appearance of Mnozil Brass, who wowed a packed audience with their brilliant playing and choreographed presentation.

Adjudicators Arvid Anthun, Garry Cutt, Egil Magnussen and Andrew Duncan also enjoyed a wide variety of music on offer from the 23 competitors.

Elite

The Elite Division title and first prize of a Besson Sovereign cornet was won by Krohnengen Brass conducted by Allan Withington who made it a clean sweep by topping all three legs of the contest.

Their 25 minute church concert was followed the next day by their performance of the set work, ‘Connotations’ and their 20 minute entertainment programme, despite losing half a point for a time violation.

It enabled them to beat off the Danish challenge of Arhus Brass, with the wonderfully entertaining Montebello Brass in third and Mikrobrasseriet in fourth.

First Division

In the First Division, Hasle Brass took the 8,000 Krone first prize ahead of rivals Rong Brass and Nordvestjysk Brass, with a clean sweep of all three legs of the contest to win by a commanding seven point margin.

Second and Third

In the Second Division Gjesdal Brass just managed to beat off the challenge of Krapfoss Hornorkester and local favourites Grenland Brass to take the Besson Baritone on offer to the winners.

10 bands lined up in the Third Division, where Langhus Brass picked up the Besson cornet on offer for the winners by topping both disciplines of the contest ahead of Fagernes Musikkorps and Gjovik ByBrass.

Full Results:

Elite Division:

1. Krohnengen (98/93/92) = 285.5*
2. Arhus Brass (96/92/91) = 279
3. Montebello Brass (94/90/94) = 278
4. Mikrobrasseriet (95/89/87) = 271

*0.5 point time penalty

First Division:

1. Hasle Brass (92/90/93) = 275
2. Rong Brass (90/88/90) = 268
3. Nordvestjysk Brass (88/84/87) = 259

Second Division:

1. Gjesdal Brass (90/93 ) = 183
2. Krapfoss Hornorkester (94/88) = 182
3. Grenland Brass (89/91) = 180
4. Stangaland Brass (91/89) = 179.5*
5. Svogerslev Blaeserne (88/86) = 174
6. Toneheim Brass (87/84) = 171

*0.5 point time penalty

Third Division:

1. Langhus Brass (92/92) = 184
2. Fagernes Musikkorps ( 91/91) = 182
3. Gjovik By Brass (89/89) = 178
4. Lismarka/Mesnali Brass (87/90) = 177
5. Eidsberg Brass Band (88/87) = 175
6. Indre Torungen Brass (86/87) = 173
7. Spydeberg (84/89) = 173
8. FDF Arhus Musikkreds (85/86) = 171
9. Karmsud Brass (83/88) = 171
10. Bamble Musikkorps (81/85) = 166

Report & Results: 2012 SEWBBA Festival Ebbw Vale

NEWS

Blackpool bounds bands took the top honours at Ebbw Vale recently, with Burry Port, City of Cardiff, Treherbert, M2 and Ebbw Valley picking up victories.

There was a fine turn out of bands for the first leg of the 2012 Welsh League series held at Ebbw Vale Sports Centre in South Wales recently.

Championship Section

A full day’s competition climaxed with a highly competitive Championship Section where Burry Port Town warmed up for their forthcoming appearance at the Senior Trophy contest in Blackpool by claiming the RTB Trophy with victory on their own choice selection of ‘Chivalry’.

Conducted by Michael Thorne, the current First Section Welsh Area champion repelled the challenge of Winter Gardens bound rival in Tylorstown, who also gave Martin Ellerby’s work an early run out.

Third place went to Pontardulais who performed Paul Lovatt-Cooper’s new work, ‘Equilibrium’.

Rising euphonium star Chris Smith claimed yet another ‘Best Instrumentalist’ award for his contribution to Burry Port’s success, whilst Denis Baker of Pontardulais took the HH Cook Award as ‘Best Horn’.

First Section

There was another Blackpool bound winner in the First Section, where top section graded City of Cardiff (Melingriffith) showed their qualities by claiming a two point winning margin over Cheltenham finalists Lewis Merthyr. There was an encouraging third place finish for the improving RAF St Athan.

Cardiff’s ‘Chivalry’ was enhanced by the contribution of prize winning duo of euphonium Frances Wilson and soprano Tim Hughes to give Gareth Ritter’s band a timely boost ahead of their travels north.

It proved enough to pip their rivals well structured performance of ‘A London Overture’ and RAF St Athan’s colourful ‘Elegy No2 – Jealousy’. RAF’s MD Alan Bourne was a very proud man on the day, and not just because his band had claimed a podium finish, as his 7 year old son Oliver picked up the ‘Youngest Player’ award.

Second Section

Treherbert carried on their resurgent return to contesting form under the direction of John Burns. They turned the tables on Welsh Area champion Goodwick by snatching the Hayden Evans Memorial Trophy by a single point in an exciting eight band strong Second Section contest.

A well worked ensemble performance of ‘Brass Metamorphosis’ by James Curnow gave the Rhondda band victory ahead of their rival’s engaging rendition of ‘Laudate Dominum’, which saw cornet player Luke Jenkins pick up the Will Wood ‘Best Instrumentalist’ trophy.

Third place went to the welcome visitors from across the River Severn, as City of Bristol, led by Welshman Ceri Thomas, beat off the challenge of Cheltenham finalists Llwydcoed with both bands reprising the Area set work, ‘Cross Patonce’.

Third Section:

There was an excellent turn out of competitors in the Third Section, where Melingriffith 2 returned to form under the baton of Dewi Griffiths after failing to qualify for the National Finals at Swansea in March.

Their three point victory came courtesy of an exciting performance of Paul Lovatt-Cooper’s ‘Dark Side of the Moon’.

Ammanford also put behind them the disappointment of their Welsh Area result as they claimed second place under Glyn Davies with a solid rendition of ‘Dimensions’, enhanced by the prize winning contribution of Jeff Thomas on euphonium.

Meanwhile, Josh Ruck and his newly crowned Welsh Fourth Section champion Severn Tunnel showed that they could make the step up in class by claiming third with their rendition of ‘Music for Kantara’.

There were a host of encouraging performances from the other competing bands, with Abertillery taking fourth thanks in no small part to the excellent prize winning playing of solo cornet Nanette Jones.

Fourth Section:

The contest day opened with the Fourth Section, where the emerging Ebbw Valley Brass claimed their first ever competitive title under the direction of Gareth Ritter.

Their performance of ‘Dimensions’, featuring the fine solo cornet work of prize winner Peter Thomas gave them a clear two point winning margin.

Oakdale’s growing confidence under conductor Adrian Browning saw them claim second place thanks to their rendition of ‘Four Cities Symphony’, whilst third place went to the youngsters of Cwmtawe Youth directed by Wayne Pedrick who performed ‘The Dark Side of the Moon’.

Junior Section:

The continued encouragement of youth banding ensembles in the area saw fourth young bands take to the stage with Gold Awards being presented to BTM New Generation led by Mark Hutchinson and Cwmtawe Juniors directed by Wayne Pedrick for their 15 minute concert programmes.

A Silver Award went to Blaenavon Town with a Bronze to Blaenavon Concert.

Rising euphonium star Lloyd Barnaby and BTM’s percussion team of Omri Tau, Nathan Phillips and Bilie Gapper took the individual awards, with 7 year old Joseph Hassle claiming the prize as the youngest player.

With thanks to Dave Evans
Contest Controller

Full Results:

Championship Section:

1. Burry Port (Mike Thorne) - 186pts
2. Tylorstown (Gary Davies) - 184pts
3. Pontardulais (Paul Jenkins) - 183pts
4. Markham (Adrian Morton) - 181pts
5. Rogerstone (Jamie Jones) - 179pts

Best Instrumentalist: Chris Smith - Euphonium (Burry Port)
Best Horn: Denise Baker (Pontardulais)

First Section:

1. City of Cardiff (Melingriffith) (Gareth Ritter) - 187pts
2. Lewis Merthyr (Gareth Pritchard) - 185pts
3. RAF St Athan (Alan Bourne) - 183pts
4. Ynyshir (Dean Evans) - 178pts

Best Instrumentalist: Frances Wilson - Euphonium (City of Cardiff)
Best Soprano: Tim Hughes (City of Cardiff)

Second Section:

1. Treherbert (John Burns) - 186pts
2. Goodwick (Matthew Jenkins) -
3. City of Bristol (Ceri Thomas) - 183pts
4. Llwydcoed (Gary Davies) - 182pts
5. Gwaun Cae Gurwen (Colin Hogg) - 179pts
6. Briton Ferry (Rhodri Griffiths) - 176pts
7. Crwbin (Andrew Jones) - 175pts
8. Crosskeys (Keri Bowden) - 174pts

Best Instrumentalist: Luke Jenkins - Cornet (Goodwick)

Third Section:

1. Mellingriffith 2 (Dewi Griffiths) - 189pts
2. Ammanford (Glyn Davies - 186pts
3. Severn Tunnel (Joshua Ruck) - 185pts
4. Abertillery & District (Dean Evans) - 183pts
5. Upper Rhondda (Gareth Robinson) - 182pts
6. Mid Rhondda (Alan Gibbs) - 179pts
7. Ogmore Valley (Alice Jones) - 178pts

Best Instrumentalist: Nanette Jones - Cornet (Abertillery & District)
Best Euphonium: Jeff Thomas - Ammanford

Fourth Section:

1. Ebbw Valley (Gareth Ritter) - 185pts
2. Oakdale (Adrian Browning) - 183pts
3. Cwmtawe Youth (Wayne Pedrick) - 180pts
4. Goodwick Community (Steve Thomas) - 176pts

Best Instrumentalist: Peter Thomas - Cornet (Ebbw Valley)

Junior Section:

Gold Award: BTM New Generation (Mark Hutcherson)
Gold Award: Cwmtawe Juniors (Wayne Pedrick)
Silver Award: Blaenavon Town (Evan Smith)
Bronze Award: Blaenafon Concert (Jonathan Waite)

Best Instrumentalist: Lloyd Barnaby - Euphonium (BTM)
Best Percussion Section: Omri Tau, Nathan Phillips and Billie Gapper (BTM)

Youngest Player in main contest: Oliver Bourne (RAF St Athan) - age 7

Youngest player in junior section: Jozef Hassle (Blaenavon Town) - age 7

All prizes: £200: £150: £100

World Rankings: May update

NEWS

Black Dyke close the gap at the top of the rankings following their recent win in Rotterdam at the European Championships

The latest World of Brass – 4barsrest.com Rankings see few changes at the very top following last weekend’s European Championships, but Black Dyke’s
first victory in the event since 2005 means that Cory’s lead at the top has been vastly reduced.

'Dyke' will now approach the English National Championships in June as hot favourite to take over the number one position.

Continental success at Rotterdam also means big rises for Eikanger-Bjørsvik (Norway), Noord Limburgse (Belgium) and Brass Band Schoonhoven
(Netherlands), while other big movers since the last update include North American Champion, Atlantic Brass Band, and Australian Champion, Gunnedah
Shire.

Other ranking contests taking place since the last update are:

Tameside Open - won by Oldham (Lees);
Northern Ireland Brass Band League - won by 1st Old Boys Association Silver;
Flemish Open - won by Brass Band Schoonhoven;
Fife Brass Band Festival - won by Kingdom Brass;
Buxton Brass Band Festival - won by Bollington Brass;
Irish Championships - won by Drogheda.

To view all the ranked bands, go to:

www.4barsrest.com/rankings/default.asp

Advert: John Packer Musical Instruments

NEWS

There is a fantastic mute deal on offer with John Packer and Denis Wick! All you have to do is enter...

Major changes at Brass in Concert

NEWS

Quality led mission statement sees radical overhaul to points system at BiC.

The organisers of the Brass in Concert Championship have revealed the major changes that will be implemented to the scoring system for the world's premier brass band entertainment contest later this year.

Advisory group

An advisory group consisting of Malcolm Brownbill, Alan Morrison, Simone Rebello, Frank Renton, Kenneth Crookston and Stuart Bulmer have discussed various and methods in which this crucial aspect of the event could be driven forward.

Free

As a result a radical new scoring system will be implemented, inspired by an event mission statement that emphasises the desire to see competing bands be free to display artistic excellence.

In future there will be a weighted percentage of points allocated for ‘Quality of Performance’, ‘Programme Content’ and ‘Entertainment and Presentation’, with each adjudicator assigned a very specific role in the process which will not cross boundaries with judges deliberations in other categories.

Full article:

A full article on the changes are to be found at:
http://www.4barsrest.com/articles/2012/1312.asp

Advert: Glyn Williams Musical Instruments

NEWS

There is a brand new website launch for Glyn Williams Musical Instruments.

It’s taken a little while, but the wait has been well worth it as the new website for Glyn Williams Music is finally up and running just in time for the Spring Festival weekend.

All aspects

The site details all aspects of the business including Glyn’s performance and conducting skills, as well as information about purchasing a range of instruments (new and second hand) from Glyn Williams Music.

New e -mails

In conjunction with the new website three new email addresses are now available for the business.

Contact

You can contact Glyn & Helen on:

With these you can arrange instrument consultations and make all other enquiries.

Facebook and Twitter

Glyn Williams Music can also be found on Facebook and on Twitter at @glynwilliamsmus.

Pay us a visit

Visit the website at www.glynwilliamsmusic.co.uk or look out for the new logo and visit the Trade Stand at the Winter Gardens at this weekend’s Spring Festival for some special deals!

Tewskesbury cash wish comes true

NEWS

Tewkesbury Youth Band can make their wishes come true thanks to voucher scheme.

Over the past month the Tewkesbury Youth Band has been collecting vouchers as part of the Gloucestershire Media Wish ‘Cash for your Community’ scheme to help raise funds for the organisation.

Hard work

And as a result of all their hard work, the band raised a magnificent amount of £901.00, which saw them come 5th out of 30 groups who took part in the scheme.

Help

Band spokesperson Mark Windsor told 4BR: "The money will be used to benefit the Training Band whose players receive free tuition, a free uniform and free loan of an instrument. Our youngest member is 6 years old and the oldest is in their 70s. Many thanks again to everyone for their support."

2012 IBBC line up confirmed

NEWS

Ambitious international Belgian event confirms line up of bands for 8,000 Euro top prize.

The confirmed line up of competing bands for the ambitious International Brass Band Contest to be held in Belgium later this year has been announced by the organisers.

The event is due to take place at the Lemmensinstituut of Leuven in Belgium in November, and has attracted an international field, headed by former European champion Manger Musikklag.

Euro challengers

Also competing are Noord-Limburgse fresh from claiming second place at this year’s European Championship in Rotterdam, whilst the organisers are hoping to get final confirmation on the participation of former Yorkshire Area and All England Masters Champion Rothwell Temperance.

The three day event will see bands from Belgium, Norway, England and Wales compete for a first prize of 8,000 Euros.

The line up for the Championship event has been confirmed as follows:

Competing bands:

Championship Section:
Manger Musikklag
Noord-Limburgse
Rothwell Temperance
Brass Band Buizingen
Brass Band Willebroek
East London Brass
Regent Brass
Brass Band Heist
Seindorf Beaumaris
Oslo Brass
Woodfalls Temperance

A Section:
Jersey Premier Brass
Young Brass Band Willebroek
Ensemble de Cuivre La Covatte

For further informmation go to:
www.ibbc.be

Neish heads into the forest

NEWS

Tuba star Les Neish heads to Jedforest to inspire yet more performers in the art of the tuba.

Tuba star Les Neish will head to Jedforest Instrumental Band in Scotland later this month where he will be spending time with the younger players of the band's growing organisation to inspire them in one of his famous workshop sessions.

Young and old!

Even some of the adult members of the Scottish Third Section Champion have already booked their places too, as the Besson artist will be there to work with as many player as possible - regardless of age!

Inspirational

Band spokesperson Stuart Black told 4BR: "The band are really looking forward to Les coming up to Jedburgh for the weekend. I can't wait to see what he will bring to the weekend's proceedings. He is in my opinion a real inspiration, and I'm sure all our members will take away something to inspire them to achieve great things in the future."

Stuart added: "A big thank you must also go to Tim Barrett and Besson for agreeing to support the project. It is wonderful that they support such inspirational artists like Les and also education projects at grass roots level."

Advert: Centre Stage Uniforms

NEWS

The winning bands at the Spring Festival will recieve fantastic hand embroidered framed pennants to remind them in years to come of their success.

Centre Stage Uniforms are delighted to be supporting the 92nd Spring Festival this weekend by presenting hand embroidered framed pennants to the winning bands in all three sections.

Hand made

The pennants, which are entirely hand made, reflect the quality and care that Centre Stage put into every item of their business, and re-inforces their position as the fastest growing uniforms supplier in Europe.

Privilege

MD Martin Gernon commented: "It's a privilege to support this fine contest and will be our absolute pleasure to present the awards to the winning bands in each section. We have a major trade stand at the contest and look forward to welcoming all customers, both existing and new.”

For more information go to:
http://centrestageuniforms.com/

Report & Results: 2012 Manx Music Festival

NEWS

There was a great day of brass banding to enjoy at the recent 120th Manx Music Festival.

The brass classes of the 120th Manx Music Festival recently attracted its biggest entry, with six bands competing for the various prizes on offer at the Villa Marina Royal Hall on the Isle of Man.

Test win

In the test piece category, leading island band Manx Concert Brass retained their title with a refined performance of Leighton Lucas’s ‘Symphonic Suite’.

Ramsey Town Band gave a polished performance of ‘Henry the Fifth’ by Ralph Vaughan Williams to come runner up with newcomers Rushen Silver Band in third after delivering a very respectable performance of Alan Fernie’s ‘Anglian Dances’.

Nippers delight

There was delight for the youngsters of Neptune Street Nippers with their premiere of Robert Quane’s composition ‘10000000 BC’, which saw them entertain the packed hall.

March and hymns

In the march & hymn tune category there was plenty of fine music making to enjoy too, including four new hymn settings by Ramsey Town’s Robert Quane of ‘Haslemere’ (Neptune Street Nippers) and ‘Wiltshire’ (Ramsey Town Band), along with two arrangements of W.H Monk’s ‘Eventide’ by both Manx Concert Brass conductor Ian Clague and Rushen Silver’s John Kinley.

Rushen’s fine performance of ‘Eventide’ earned them the Sir Laurence and Lady New Trophy for the ‘Best Hymn’ with adjudicator David Horsfield describing it as one of his personal highlights of the class.

Meanwhile, Manx Concert Brass took the S. Quayle Cup in the March category with their well worked rendition of ‘Knight Templar’.

Entertainment

Manx Concert Brass also took the overall honours in the 20 minute entertainment programme section closely followed by Ramsey and Douglas Town in third. There was a special treat for the audience too as Brass Band Obernuntern from Austria provided their own brand of brass entertainment.

Thanks to Juan Wright

Results:

Test Piece:
Adjudicator: David Horsfield

1. Manx Concert Brass - 90
2. Ramsey Town – 88
3. Rushen Silver – 86
4. Douglas Town – 85
5. Manx Youth – 82
6. Neptune Street Nippers – 81

March & Hymn Tune:
Adjudicator: David Horsfield

1= Manx Concert Brass – 178*
1= Rushen Silver – 178**
3. Ramsey Town – 175
4. Douglas Town – 173
5. Manx Youth – 167
6. Neptune Street Nippers – 163

*Best March
** Best Hymn Tune

Entertainment:
Adjudicator: David Horsfield

1. Manx Concert Brass – 91
2. Ramsay Town – 89
3. Douglas Town – 88
4. Rusheb Silver – 87
5. Manx Youth – 84
6. Neptune Street Nippers

Best Soloist: Theo Leach

Did not compete but performed: Brass Band Obernuntern of Austria.