One of Scotland's longest established slow melody contests took place on the weekend in Dalmellington in East Ayrshire.

Novices to seniors

Supporters of the band gathered in the local community centre to hear 27 brass instrumentalists — from young novice learners to the older and more experienced seniors, play their chosen solos to be compared and contrasted by adjudicator Sheona White.

Now in its 80th year, the annual competition is held in memory of Cecil Oughton, a local cornet player who was killed in action during the Second World War aged just 21.

Prelude

The afternoon started off with the Dalmellington Band playing the march 'Punchinello' and hymn tune 'Deep Harmony', led by Sheona to provide the prelude to the competitive action.

And it was a real showcase too with the players skilfully accompanied by Gordon Cree on piano. Sheona later remarked that whenever she played a solo, she liked to tell a story, adding that amongst the many excellent performances, one did that in particular.

It came from flugel player Lindsay Roxburgh Orr, with her evocative rendition of Paul Lovatt Cooper's 'By Trevone Bay'.

Fantastic afternoon

With so much excellent playing going on no wonder the audience enjoyed the friendly social occasion with local villagers and banding supporters mixing together throughout the day, especially with the fantastic afternoon tea that was provided.

Sheona later joined the band on stage for a mini concert, conducted and compered by Alan Friel, before the awards were presented by young fan C J Todd and his mother Lucy who have both been avid fans of Dalmellington since first hearing them play in 2021.

Results:

Seniors:

1. Lindsay Roxburgh Orr (flugel)
2. Rebecca Wilson Paterson (cornet)
3. Joshua Parkhill (trombone)
4. David McLean (euphonium)

Best bass: Cameron Paterson
Best euphonium / baritone: David McLean
Best cornet: Rebecca Wilson Paterson
Best horn / flugel: Lindsay Roxburgh Orr
Best trombone: Joshua Parkhill

Advanced Juniors:

1. Sophie Sturgeon (cornet)
2. Jack Young (Eb bass)

Albert Arthur Carr Trophy for commitment and dedication: Sophie Sturgeon (cornet)
George F Monksfield Award for most progress: Archie Kane (trombone)
Ark Joinery Trophy for Brass Academy rising star: Hayden Kelly (tenor horn)

Intermediate Juniors:

1. Owen Given (cornet)
2. Scarlett Kelly (cornet)

Novices:

Iona Kennedy (cornet) and Iona Bain (cornet) both received certificates and a Complete Method Tutor

Special Awards:

Engraved drumstick for percussionist Scott Sturgeon
Dale Salver for player who has given exceptional service: Karin Lowrie (tenor horn)
Mary Reid Quaich to backroom, non-playing, for exceptional service: Taylor Paterson