The largest audience to date at the Thwaites Empire Theatre got the chance to hear two brass bands on top form recently.

The first half of the concert was performed by hosts Blackburn & Darwen, whilst the second half was handed over to the Failsworth Community Band.

Classics

With a theme of easy listening classics, the packed auditorium enjoyed everything from Barry Manilow’s ‘Copacabana’ to solo items from the band’s stable of high-class soloists under the direction of MD, Nick Sheppard.

Becky Stead and Sean Houlton wowed the audience with their solo contributions, whilst there was plenty of feet tapping and clapping with music from a brilliant Queen ‘Trilogy’.

Vocal soloists

Failsworth Community Band under the direction of Matt Garlick. Incorporated a number of vocal soloists, including Matt Ford, Natalie McGrath and Georgia Povey, whilst the band provided an array of great big band and pop numbers.

As one well satisfied member of the audience later said: "It was certainly different and totally enjoyable. I can’t wait for the next concert – if I can get a ticket!"