It has been a rollercoaster week for Richard Evans and the Brisbane Excelsior Band in the lead up to the recent FABB contest on the Australian Gold Coast.

Immediate

Richard landed on Tuesday 19th October and immediately commenced rehearsals that evening without taking even a moment to acclimatize to the new time zone and weather conditions.

Maestro

Band member Dean Morley told 4BR: “The band were put through their paces with the maestro carving through the music at a blistering pace. His enthusiasm and momentum mixed with stories and jokes fuelled from over half a century of top level banding, energized the band and raised their spirits and playing to a new high.”

Everyone was amazed at Richards drive and energy in rehearsing both the set piece and the entertainment program every night in the lead up to the contest4BR

Drive and energy

Everyone was amazed at Richards drive and energy in rehearsing both the set piece and the entertainment program every night in the lead up to the contest.

The fun didn’t stop after the rehearsals either as Richard was hosted by Dean and his girlfriend Julie Woods, so the entertainment continued in to the small hours along with the exchange of jokes and stories as the fine wine flowed in abundance.

Successful

It all culminated in a successful weekend at the FABB contest for XLCR with a second place in the set test contest and a win in the entertainment event.

Richard’s whistle-stop trip ended on Monday as he returned to the colder climate of the motherland with UGG boots for Pam and a sheepskin rug to adorn the fireside.

Life changed

Dean added: "Everyone who met Richard at the contest had their life changed forever as they were met by the warmth and positive energy he constantly exudes. He transports happiness wherever he goes and Australia is always the better for what have become his annual visits.

Brisbane XLCR would like to thank Richard for all his hard work with the band and for some unforgettable memories."