The all-conquering quadruple champion Cory Band started their busy 2017 concert schedule with a trip to the university town of Aberystwyth for a workshop day with the local town band followed by a memorable evening concert to round things off.

The world’s number 1 ranked ensemble was in relaxed mood - led by MD Philip Harper, who engaged the packed audience with his friendly good humour and informative introductions on repertoire that included the much anticipated performance of ‘The Remarkable Life of Roald Dahl’ which provided the centerpiece of a first half of brilliant musical entertainment.

Wow factor

If that wasn’t enough of a wow factor, the displays from the selected soloists such as Helen and Glyn Williams and Tom Hutchinson took the breath away - although for the die-hard brass band aficionados in the audience it was the ensemble playing of amazing balance and detail - right from the opening bars of the overture ‘Candide’ that had them nodding their heads in sage approval.

Generous

The generosity of the band in welcoming various winning ensembles of players that they had worked with during the day to perform on stage was also a wonderful highlight with the youngsters eagerly taking their turn in spotlight, whilst Philip Harper paid a generous tribute of his own to the hard work of Heather Phillips in making the day such a success (including a super meal for a hungry band).

Amazing playing

The concert was over far too quickly for those lucky enough to squeeze through the doors - especially as the foundations of the school were rumbling with the amazing playing on ‘The Great Gate of Kiev’ from ‘Pictures at an Exhibition’ to close. 

It was a fitting end to a welcome visit from the best brass band in the world.

Steve Hughes