The Shirley Band recently enjoyed performing to a sell-out audience for their special 'Last Night of the Proms' concert under the baton of MD Tom Stoneman.

They were helped along the way at St Philip's Church Centre in Dorridge by the sparkling playing of guest soloist, Luke Baker, principal cornet of the National Champion, Flowers Band.

Repertoire

The evening included a wide variety of repertoire, such as 'Sound the Bells' and 'Superman' by John Williams, to 'Scarborough Fair', 'Bohemian Rhapsody' and the usual 'Last Night' classics such as 'Pomp and Circumstance', 'Jerusalem', and 'Fantasia on British Sea Songs', led by tenor horn player and singer, Jane Richardson.

Luke added the stardust with 'Alaw' by Tom Davoren, 'Lark in the Clear Air' and 'Carnival of Venice'.

Real appetite

Reflecting on the success, Band Secretary Sally Middleton told 4BR: "We were overwhelmed by the response to the concert and it shows that there is a real appetite for high quality brass band performances in our local community.

Sharing the stage with Luke Barker was a real honour and the band and audience thoroughly enjoyed his inspiring playing."