There was a major contesting upset in Scotland on the weekend, where the recently crowned All England Masters International champion, Co-operative Funeralcare Band, were beaten into second place in the first semi final of the annual West Lothian Challenge contest.

Victory

Victory on the night went to Kingdom Brass, conducted by Andrew Duncan, as adjudicators Nigel Seaman and Alan Fernie placed the Fife band just ahead of their rivals.

The adjudicator stated in his remarks that it had been remarkably close between the two bands technically, but Kingdom had won out on pure entertainment value.

The adjudicator stated in his remarks that it had been remarkably close between the two bands technically, but Kingdom had won out on pure entertainment value4BR

Pizzazz

Kingdom overcame a one point deficit in points of music with a three point margin for that ‘pizzazz’ factor to give then a memorable two point winning margin.

Double delught

The third band to compete in the first semi-final was Bon Accord Silver Band who represented Scotland in the recent European Championships at Linz, so it was a double delight for Kingdom, who now took their place in the final at Howden Park in Livingston on the 27th June.

Programme

Kingdom’s inventive programme saw them open with 'A Caledonian Suite', followed by the 'Harry James Trumpet Concerto', 'The Duke of Cambridge March', 'Tonight', 'Keystone Cops', 'Alloway Tales', 'Claire de Lune' and 'Reunion and Finale'.

Reprise

The Masters champion, whose conductor Michael Fowles stated just a week ago that they, 'wouldn't be taking anything for granted' reprised much of their Kettering Gala Concert programme, whilst Bon Accord’s spirited performance was highlighted by a fine performance of ‘Benedictus’ from the ‘Armed Man’ by euphonium player Richard Kidd.

The second semi-final will be held this weekend, when Whitburn, Kirkintilloch and Clackmannan meet to see who joins Kingdom in the final.

Result:
Adjudicators: Nigel Seaman & Alan Fernie
(Music + Entertainment)

1. Kingdom Brass (Andrew Duncan) — (86/46) = 132
2. Co-operative Funeralcare (Michael Fowles) — (87/43) = 130
3. Bon Accord (John Maines) — (84/44) = 128