The City of Cardiff (Melingriffith) Band is holding a unique open event this evening (Thursday, January 29th).

The band is hosting a special ‘T.J. Powell Open Rehearsal’ to celebrate the legacy of one of Wales’ finest brass band conductors and composers.

Finest marches

Tom Powell was conductor of the Melingriffith band from 1920 until 1965 (above) during which time, as well as making them one of the most famous names in UK banding, he composed dozens of fine pieces of music — of which his marches are known and still widely played around the banding world.

The evening will therefore celebrate those works — alongside a number that have not seen the light of day for many years as well.

Photographs

One former player, Geoff Atkins has compiled a collection of photographs of T.J. Powell with the band, which will be displaying and it is hoped that the evening will trigger a number of other events to celebrate Powell's contribution to the brass band movement.

Among the manuscripts that will be looked at are a number of long lost marches, including one called ‘Cardiff Castle’ — not to be confused with his ‘Castell Caerdydd’, solos, a euphonium and bass feature, as well as some longer works.

Death

The date also coincides with Powell’s death exactly 50 years ago, when, as guest conductor of the Cory Band, he was to lead them in a radio contest performance in Cardiff for the popular ‘Challenging Brass’ programme.

As he rose to conduct the band for the live radio competition, he collapsed — although as he received attention before being taken to hospital, the band performed, led by one of the players. He died at the studio.

The rehearsal starts at 7.00pm at Tongwynlais Village Hall when massed bands form the City of Cardiff organisation will work their way through some of his famous compositions4BR

Come along

The rehearsal starts at 7.00pm at Tongwynlais Village Hall when massed bands form the City of Cardiff organisation will work their way through some of his famous compositions.

If you are n the area, please come along and enjoy some fine music making from one of Wales’ finest brass band musicians.

For more information, please contact Dave Howard on 07867 553040 or davekhoward@gmail.com