The festive season may be one of the busiest times for bands, but this Christmas has been a record breaking one for Seindorf Beaumaris from North Wales.
Recently, no less than 168 players from the Beaumaris' family of five bands, performed in two sold out concerts in Anglesey.
Tight squeeze
And reflecting on both the musical as well as logistical success, Musical Director, Gwyn Evans told 4BR: "It's an incredible achievement to have so many players on stage.
It didn't really dawn on us how many players we have in our family of bands until we finally sat down for the first concert. It was a bit of a tight squeeze!"
He added: "For a band in such a rural area to have 168 musicians on stage in one concert is absolutely amazing."
Proud set-up
Seindorf Beaumaris is extremely proud of their set-up, with a successful Junior, Intermediate and Youth Band providing developing steps on a long and fruitful journey of brass band enjoyment and participation.
"These youth sections play such an important role in both the player's musical education as well as the long term future of the organisation," explained Gwyn.
Summer Wine
And with Gwyn's father, Fred, conducting the Junior Band and Gwyn's daughter, Bethan, leading the Intermediate Band, Seindorf Beaumaris is also a real family affair — something that is certainly shown by the Beaumaris Social Band, called 'The Last of the Summer Wind' or 'LSW'.
It was formed in 2008 after Gwyn returned from a visit to Norway inspired by the bands that aimed to include the whole family — from youngsters to grand-parents all enjoying playing in the same ensemble.
Following the initial hard work of persuading older family members to take part 'LSW'now rehearse each week with over 40 players 'having a go and having great fun' as Gwyn says.
Busy 2017
2017 also promises to be a busy one — as the Youth Band returns to Blackpool to try and recapture the Youth Entertainment Championship of Great Britain title they last won in 2014, whilst the players of 'LSW' head to Norway in March after accepting an invitation from Tasta Gubbekorps of Stavanger to take part in the Gubbiaden contest.
And with the National Eisteddfod of Wales being hosted on Anglesey in August, there will also be a welcome return to competition for the senior Seindorf Beaumaris Band.
"With the Eisteddfod in our own back yard we felt we had to take part, and with such talented youngsters moving through the ranks, it was only natural that they should move up to the Senior Band," explained Gwyn, before adding.
"It promises to be an exciting and incredibly busy year, but that's how we like it in Beaumaris!"
