There was a fine day’s music making at the East Durham College in Peterlee on the weekend, with excellent support from local brass band lovers and bands for the annual Durham CBBA Contest.

North Skelton under Denis Noble’s baton delivered a fine performance of ‘Purcell Variations’ to take the Northern Echo Challenge Cup in Section C, whilst NASUWT Concert Band warmed up for their Darlington Area appearance by claiming the Section B honours in commanding fashion on ‘Chaucer’s Tunes’ under Bryan Tait.

Awards and signing

North Skelton also took awards for ‘Best Basses’ and ‘Best Trombones’, with ‘Best Euphonium’ player Chris Coupland taking the Grainger Trophy for his fine contribution as they repelled the strong challenge of Crahgead Colliery and Bearpark & Esh.

The band also announced five new signings to boost their challenge ahead of the North of England Area contest in Darlington with Steve Hague, Alex Evans, Les Thomson, Claire Gunkel and Paul Gillson, joining the ranks.

Craghead Colliery’s performance of ‘Lydian Pictures’ was enhanced by the excellent’ Best Cornet’ contribution’ of Darren James who claimed the Gordon Kitto Memorial Cup.

Outstanding NASUWT

In Section B, an outstanding performance of ‘Chaucer’s Tunes’ gave NASUWT Concert Brass the Durham County Council Chairman’s Shield as they secured a six point victory over rivals Durham Miner’s Association and Ferryhill Town.

The band also took the prizes for ‘Best Principal Cornet’, ‘Best Percussion’ and ‘Best Middle of the Band’ whilst the MD claimed the Norman Nattrass Trophy as winning conductor.

Results:

Section B:
1. NASUWT Concert Brass (B. Tait) — 85pts
2. Durham Miners Association (S. Gray) — 79pts
3. Ferrryhill Town (A. Hall) — 78pts

Section C:
1. North Skelton (D. Noble) — 81pts
2. Craghead Colliery (A. Hunter) — 78pts
3. Bearpark & Esh (T. Oldroyd) — 77pts