The eagerly awaited open rehearsal at Besses o’th’ Barn took place at the band room in Whitefield on Tuesday March 11th.

After all the hard work the band put in the rehearsal totally exceeded all expectations as the band room was full to capacity.

Over 80 players

The rehearsal was due to start at 8:00pm, however with such a massive over subscription of the event the Baton didn’t come down until ten past. The band must have been of over eighty players!

Once the massed band had settled they rehearsed and performed 'Knight Templar', 'Prelude on the 49th Parallel' and finished the evening, after some condensed rehearsing, with a complete performance of 'Blitz'.

Many people have worked very hard to make the evening a success, however none of us expected such a fantastic responseConductor John North

Well earned pint

The rehearsal then ended slightly earlier than normal so people could mingle, catch up, reminisce, discuss the future and have a well earned pint.

Speaking after the event, conductor John North told 4BR: "Many people have worked very hard to make the evening a success, however none of us expected such a fantastic response."

Amazing sound

John added: "The sound was amazing. With so many quality players around the stand giving a musical demonstration of the true high regard they hold Besses the experience was musically fantastic – I feel privileged to have been involved and wish to personally thank each of the players who made the effort to show they care."

Due to the success of the event it is likely to become a regular and popular fixture on the Besses calendar.

Real boost

Secretary, Jean Hayes told 4BR: "After the disappointment of not being able to compete at the areas, due to us missing a few players, this event was a real boost for the band and we have already had a good few enquiries from new players wanting to join.

It was also fantastic to see some old friends. We can now look forward to bursting back onto the scene at the Spring Festival. However there are still a couple of gaps still available so if there are any players who feel they would like be part of the revival, we would love them to get in touch."