Given what adjudicator Dr Robert Childs stated were two of the most important musical aspects he and Gavin Saynor were looking on Martin Ellerby's 'Elgar Variations', there was surprisingly very little 'song and dance' debate to be heard about Foden's tenth consecutive Championship Section victory in Blackpool.

The audience certainly knew it.

Any tension in the Opera House air evaporated as soon as a delighted runner-up KNDS Fairey claimed the only other Royal Albert Hall qualification place on offer. Not for the first time since they seemingly took permanent possession of The People Challenge Trophy in 2016, Foden's was a class apart.

Graceful elegance

"A mature musical performance. Bravo MD", Dr Childs wrote of a subtly crafted account tailored by Russell Gray that balanced graceful elegance, precise detailing and refined textures. "You have so much control. A terrific performance," Gavin Saynor said as he pinpointed the quality of both soloists and ensemble. Principal cornet Mark Wilkinson once again took possession of the 'Best Cornet' prize.

Few in the encouragingly large audience (as it was for all sections) would have disagreed even if they could have come up with a counter argument.

The appreciation of Foden's perennial quality is marked, but that said, there is also an equally marked sense that its contest winning predictability needs to be challenged more strongly by rivals. Once again, they were left in their wake.

No doubt

That was also endorsed by Dr Childs' pre-results appraisal which left no one in doubt about the reasoning behind the decision.

In highlighting the essential traits of style and character (the "essence of the song and dance") he touched on the need for MDs to eschew bravura and bombast to capture the lean, nimble vigour of the faster elements and the eloquent melancholy of the lyrical ones.

Balance and tonal issues in the high tessitura writing was all too often exacerbated by sugar coated overload in the reflective sections, which Dr Childs said "over indulged in rubato". "Just one or two" he also added had "a full set" of commanding main soloists (although he commended the "really good percussion").

Overall, he said there were, "two or three performances of note", the top two of which "could go to other Areas and win." Supporters of Foden's and KNDS Fairey will hope that will also be the case come the Albert Hall.

Different approach

Just before the results Russell Gray spoke to 4BR about his delight at the way his band responded to his appreciation of the Ellerby score.

"It's music that calls for a very different approach to the majority of modern test-pieces", he said, before adding, "There's a subtle appreciation of style and character that needs to be drawn out — an essence of Elgar rather than any pastiche. I've really enjoyed the challenge, and I'm delighted by the way the band responded."

It was not misplaced, especially as he has now claimed the Roy Newsome Memorial Trophy as winning conductor ten times since 2002 (nine with Foden's).

More visceral

The rivalry between the famous red and blue bands may not have the razor-sharp piquancy of years gone by, but the Stockport band still maintains a quality stage presence.

On this occasion Fairey's more visceral approach under MD Phil Chalk displayed a few rough edges in tonal brittleness, although there was enough solo and ensemble security for the judges to see them capture that second qualification place in comfort.

It was also enough to repel a highly impressive performance of solid ensemble and artistic solo contributions from Pemberton Old Wigan DW. Led with clear musical intentions by Tom Wyss, they gave the judges something to really think about as the last band of a contest, that although variable in definitive overall top-class quality, was never less than thoroughly engaging.

Fluid Freckleton

A delighted (if somewhat surprised) Freckleton claimed fourth spot with a performance that was certainly enhanced by MD John Atkinson's fluid approach and some fine individual contributions.

Behind them, Leyland never quite sounded fully at ease off the number 1 draw as balance issues perhaps undermined their vibrant account, whilst the informed musicality of Chris Binn's interpretation with Milnrow was perhaps blighted too often by elements of variable intonation.

After that the standard fell away, although there was much to enjoy with the different approaches to Elgarian characterisation that were to be found from Wardle Anderson Brass down to Acceler8.

First Section:

An enjoyable First Section contest provided the extended prelude to the top flight entertainment, with 17 bands tackling Andrew Wainwright's 'Variations on 'Was Lebet''.

It's neatly realised variant elements based on the German chorale offered much to explore, execute and enjoy for conductors and performers alike — as well as a great deal for adjudicators John Doyle and Alan Widdop to compare and contrast (the composer was also in the audience after making the trip over from the USA).

Balance and style

John may have given a typically humorous appreciation of the performances, but amid the chuckles were also more than a few knowing shrugs of recognition of the problems he spoke of in terms of tempo relationship (especially the 138 marking of Variation 1 and that of the Variation 5 fugue), balance and style.

Alan too added a clear endorsement of the basic elements of good quality playing and musical understanding required — from tempo choices to nerves.

He revealed the pair had no problem picking out a winner — opting for the energised, colourful account from Haydock Band that fused warmth with lyricism, and as John spoke about, also saw MD Mark Quinn capture the right approach to the tricky 'waltz' in the fourth variation.

Over the moon

Haydock's first Area title win at this level further endorsed the recent fine form shown in winning the Fife Charities Contest last September, as they now prepare to head to the National Final in York for the first time since 2016. Little wonder they took to Facebook to state; "Time to celebrate" after "an amazing day" that left them "over the moon".

Joining them will be fellow podium finishers Tyldesley and Blackburn & Darwen, both of whom gave confident, solidly delivered accounts that benefited from the informed approaches of MDs Neil Samuel and Daniel Thomas. The ensemble foundations of broad, warm textures were built on with defined tempo and stylistic changes as well as fine solo contributions.

Engaging

Just behind came a trio of engaging accounts that for the judges perhaps just lacked the same stylistic definition, although there was much to enjoy in the well delivered solo and ensemble playing of Roberts Bakery, Wingates and Manx Concert Brass, all three of whom had admirers aplenty on the hall.

Behind them it was the usual tale of increasing levels of unforced errors and inconsistencies, although not one band really found the set-work totally beyond them.

Second Section:

The imaginary décor of the Spanish Hall provided the ideal backdrop for the 19 bands tackling the fantastical musical narrative of Philip Harper's take on Jules Verne's sci-fi adventure story, '20,000 Leagues under the Sea'.

The tale of the enigmatic captain with a penchant for saving the beauty of a coral kingdom, as well eco-mayhem when cornered by a giant squid or saving his vessel from a maelstrom whirlpool, also gave free licence for conductor imagination.

Cracking

It made for a cracking contest — one supported throughout by a thoroughly entertained audience packed into the Costa del Blackpool warmth of the hall.

In the end it was delight for Lostock Hall Memorial as they secured the honours with a rendition of clear narrative purpose under MD Tommy Tynan.

You could forgive them mixing up their celebratory metaphors by saying they were on 'Cloud Nine' after victory on the underwater score also came with them taking a fisherman's net full of silverware that included the Winner's Trophy as well as cups for the winning secretary, 'Best Basses' and 'Youngest Player'.

Their recently appointed MD also continued his rich vein of personal form as he added another accolade to his growing CV of achievements after recently winning the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain Conducting Competition.

Chuffed

Tommy later wrote on his Facebook page: "Absolutely chuffed to bits. Been an outstanding prep with the band and they laid it out on stage too. First time out. So proud of them all. To the future!!"

That he hopes will see him be part of a Black Dyke success at Huddersfield this weekend, whilst he now looks forward to his own National Finals debut with the baton in York in September.

Also looking forward to making a considerably shorter trip (their last Cheltenham appearance was in 2019) will be Bollington, as Craig Mann's band built on the solid foundation work shown at the recent NEMBBA Contest by claiming another deserved runner-up spot.

There will be a first Finals appearance since 2021 for Uppermill, as James Garlick's band continued their incremental progress in coming third.

He also took the opportunity to listen to fellow competitors to judge the right level of dynamic required to bring both the vibrant excitement as well as more atmospheric scoring to life (especially with the tuba led opening and the essential percussion and muted texture work).

Others also took note (appreciated by the judges, Helen Douthwaite-Teasdale and Martin Heartfield) with the remaining top-six places going to well directed accounts from Dobcross Silver, Rivington & Adlington and Hazel Grove.

Third Section:

Although the opening of 'Three Haworth Impressions' painted a rather bleak Gothic atmosphere of the West Yorkshire Moors of Emily Bronte's classic Victorian novel, it also provided an ideal test of title-winning character for the 15 competing bands.

Gordon Langford's score was a demanding ask, but one, that according to the judges Benjamin Richeton and Leigh Baker was tackled with good musical sense by the majority of conductors, even if the usual underlying problems of contesting basics still sorted out the prize-winners from the rest.

Winning mark

By the time the music had taken everyone through the darkened emotions of jealously and gloom to the capricious waltz virtues of 'The Three Bells' and the chuffing energy of the 'Worth Valley Railway', the winners and qualifiers had certainly made their mark in terms of ensemble and solo quality.

In the compact surroundings of the Pavillion Theatre (with the judge's tent just 20 feet or so from the bands) those who controlled dynamics and enthusiasm won through — led by the worthy winner in Allerton Brass conducted by Jamie Duncan.

It will now see them head to the National Final for the first time since 2018, further boosting the confidence that he has instilled since dropping down into the section this year.

Thrilled

Reflecting on their success on their Facebook page they stated: "After many hardworking rehearsals, we're thrilled with the results... and are heading to York for the National Finals in September. Absolutely over the moon!"

Also thrilled to join them for the second time in three years will be Littleborough, who gave the judges a high quality number 1 marker under MD Max Stannard (who earlier gave the 4BR Editor a couple of quid to put into the parking machine outside the hall).

The final qualification place went to Clock Face Miners Heritage Band (the former Greenalls) with a characterised account under William Haw that saw them claim a first finals appearance since 2005.

The remaining top-six places in a contest of hard-working accounts went to Trinity Girls, BMP Europe Ltd (Goodshaw) and Vernon Building Society Poynton.

Fourth Section:

Although it was hoped that Eric Ball's 'Indian Summer' would lead to more than just the one extra entry in the Fourth Section, the Regional Committee will still have been delighted at the quality of the performances that came from the 13 bands on Sunday afternoon.

Although only two will head to York (one more entry and it would have been three), both Wardle Community and Brindle will be strong contenders.

Leap of faith

Formed in 1996 originally to enable for parents of students at Wardle Academy to play alongside their children, Wardle Community Band has more recently been reinvigorated by conductor Gwen Smith and an amazing team of volunteers.

With an age range from 13 to 80 they regularly get over 40 players at rehearsal, but as spokesperson Jane Conway told 4BR, for this year they "took a leap of faith" to enter.

Their prayers paid off, with a super account that caught the ears of judges Nicholas Garman and Sarah Groarke Booth which will now see them make their National Final debut.

Jane added: "Just before Christmas, we decided it would be good to set ourselves a real challenge, so we took a leap of faith and entered. While not everyone was able to perform, those who didn't play came along to support the band, which meant a great deal to us all.

It's been hard work over the past couple of years, but incredibly rewarding. Now look what we have done!"

Super account

It will also feel like a National Final debut for some players at Brindle too, as the last time they qualified was 2017. Now they return thanks to a super account under Steve Hatrtley that just did enough to pip third placed Onchan Silver who made the trip over from the Isle of Man.

The remaining top-six places in a contest of encouraging quality came from St John's Mossley, Red Admiral Brass and Farnworth & Walkden.

Under one roof

With 75 bands and their players all under one roof, the Winter Gardens once again provided a vibrant hub of musical and social activity.

And whilst the hall management will have been delighted at the bar and food outlet takings, the Regional Committee led by Richard Milton and his excellent team would have been equally pleased by the support shown by people taking time to listen to the performances in each of the various sections.

Iwan Fox

The appreciation of Foden's perennial quality is marked, but that said, there is also a marked sense that its contest winning predictability needs to be challenged more strongly by rivals. Once again, they were left in their wake4BR

Results:

Championship Section:

Test piece: Elgar Variations (Martin Ellerby)
Adjudicators: Dr Robert Childs; Gavin Saynor

1. Foden's (Russell Gray)*
2. KNDS Fairey (Phil Chalk)*
3. Pemberton Old Wigan DW (Thomas Wyss)
4. Freckleton (John Atkinson)
5. Leyland (Daniel Brooks)
6. Milnrow (Christopher Binns)
7. Wardle Anderson Brass (Jamie Cooper)
8. Boarshurst Silver (Martyn Evans)
9. Rainford (Adam DJ Taylor)
10. Whitworth Vale & Healey (Mike Golding)
11. Acceler8 (Jef Sparkes)

Best Cornet: Mark Wilkinson (Foden's)

*Qualify for National Final

First Section:

Test piece: Variations on 'Was Lebet' (Andrew Wainwright)
Adjudicators: John Doyle; Alan Widdop

1. Haydock (Mark Quinn)*
2. Tyldesley (Neil Samuel)*
3. Blackburn & Darwen (Daniel Thomas)*
4. Roberts Bakery (Mike Jones)
5. Wingates (Matthew Ryan)
6. Manx Concert Brass (Michael Fowles)
7. Ashton under Lyne (Paul Lovatt Cooper)
8. Flixton (Adie Smith)
9. Diggle (Sean Conway)
10. Besses Boys (James Holt)
11. Skelmersdale (John Binns)
12. Eccles Borough (Mareika Gray)
13. Pemberton Old Wigan DW B (Ryan Breen)
14. Longridge (Mark Peacock)
15. Eagley (Christopher Wormald)
16. Silk Brass (Tony Wyatt)
17. Valley Brass (Haydock) (David Chadwick)

*Qualify for National Final

Second Section:

Test piece: 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea (Philip Harper)
Adjudicators: Martin Heartfield; Helen Douthwaite-Teasdale

1. Lostock Hall Memorial (Tommy Tynan)*
2. Bollington Brass (Craig Mann)*
3. Uppermill (James Garlick)*
4. Dobcross Silver (Jason M Smith)
5. Rivington & Adlington (Malcolm Wilson)
6. Hazel Grove (Nigel Beasley)
7. Middleton (Kevin Gibb)
8. Old Hall Brass (Trevor Halliwell)
9. Liverpool (Louise Hough MBE)
10. Poulton-le-Fylde (Stephen Craig)
11. Haslingden & Helmshore (Daniel Price)
12. City of Chester Bluecoat (Ewan Easton)
13. Marple (Sarah Groarke-Booth)
14. Eccleston Brass (John Wood)
15. Golborne (Les Webb)
16. Delph (Philip Goodwin)
17. Hawk Green (Neil Hewson)
18. Mossley (Duncan Byers)
19. Morecambe (Steve R Terry)

Best Basses: Lostock Hall Memorial
Best Soprano: Poulton le Fylde
Youngest Player: Lostock Hall

*Qualify for National Final

Third Section:

Test piece: Three Haworth Impressions (Gordon Langford)
Adjudicators: Leigh Baker; Benjamin Richeton

1. Allerton Brass (Jamie Duncan)*
2. Littleborough (Max Stannard)*
3. Clock Face Miners Heritage (Will Haw)*
4. Trinity Girls (Craig Mann)
5. BMP Europe Ltd (Goodshaw) (Dean Redfern)
6. VBS Poynton (Joey Wong)
7. Ramsey Town (Robert Mitchell)
8. Blackpool Brass (John North)
9. Besses o'th' Barn (Jacob Hickson)
10. Hoover Bolton (Joe Murtagh)
11. Rode Hall Silver (Ken Mackintosh)
12. Sale Brass (Andrew Mallon)
13. Thornton Cleveleys (Matthew Balson)
14. Pilling Jubilee Silver (Joshua Hughes)
15. Stalybridge Old (Nigel Lawless)

*Qualify for National Final

Fourth Section:

Test piece: Indian Summer (Eric Ball)
Adjudicators: Nicholas Garman; Sarah Groarke-Booth

1. Wardle Community Band (Jane Conway)*
2. Brindle (Steve Hartley)*
3. Onchan Silver (David Karran)
4. St. John's Mossley (Ben Hill-Wilson)
5. Red Admiral Brass (Stuart Barton)
6. Farnworth & Walkden (Matt Whitfield)
7. Darwen Brass (David W Ashworth)
8. Manx Youth Band (Ian Clague MBE)
9. Greenfield (Paul Towle)
10. Dobcross Youth (James Atkins)
11. Stacksteads (Matthew Spaight)
12. Cadishead Public (David Holland)
13. Blackley (Karl Stott)

Best Trombones: St John's Mossley

*Qualify for National Final