A great turn out and some wonderful playing from the youngest to the oldest in Holme Valley.

A day of outstanding music was enjoyed at the recent 3rd annual Holme Valley Slow Melody & Ensemble Competition, held at the impressive Hade Edge bandroom.

Far and wide

Competitors travelled from as far afield as the North East and the Midlands to take part in the friendly contesting rivalry amid a relaxed atmosphere. With over 40 entries this year it is hoped that the event will now become a regular part of the rapidly growing Slow Melody circuit in the north of England.

Adjudicator Kevin Wadsworth and an appreciative audience were certainly stunned by the quality of the performances in the 11 & Under Section, which included no less than four excellent renditions of ‘Softly Awakes My Heart’ from the talented young players.

The best

The best of them came from winner Felicity Hindmarsh from Tewit Youth, whilst there were other excellent prize winning performances in the other main classes from Ben Jarvis, Hannah Stell and Patricia Woodings, who also took the Veterans honours.

Young Black Dyke star Jonny Bates teamed up with his friend Luke Dempsey to win the Under 18 Ensemble Class with the trombone duo of Stephen Lomas and Daniel Brooks taking the senior ensemble award.

Informative

Organiser Graham Bates told 4BR: "Kevin was very informative and encouraging in his analysis of every section. He only had one disappointment in that several of the packed audience from the morning did not stay to savour some outstanding ensemble performances."

Leyland’s bass trombone star Steve Lomas, was singled out for his superb playing.

Graham added: "It was great to see a lot of familiar faces again as well as some new friends who we hope to see again in the future. The standard of playing was excellent and I hope everyone enjoyed themselves."

Results:

11 & Under:
1. Felicity Hindmarsh (Tewit Youth)
2. Ellie Warren (Rochdale Youth)
3. Eva Warren (Rochdale Youth)

14 & Under:
1. Ben Jarvis (Eccleston)
2. Hannah Stell (Skelmanthorpe B)
3. Bethan Brown (Foresters Brass)

16 & Under:
1. Hannah Stell (Skelmanthorpe B)
2. Ben Jarvis (Eccleston)
3. Bethan Brown (Foresters Brass)

Open:
1. Patricia Woodings (Newhall)
2. Bradley Hanson (EYMS)
3. Ben Jarvis (Eccleston)

Veterans:
1. Patricia Woodings (Newhall)
2. Debbie Bates (Thurlstone)

Ensemble (18 & Under):
1. Luke Dempsey & Jonny Bates

Ensemble (Open):
1. Stephen Lomas & Daniel Brooks
2. Brassaholics Ride Again
3. Louise Edgar & Stephen Lomas

Over 60 players produce a series of fine performances at a highly successful Marsden event.

There was a great turnout of playing talent at the inaugural Marsden Solo, Duet & Quartet competition on the weekend.

Over 60 musicians from as far afield as Nottingham took the opportunity to showcase their skills with adjudicator Glyn Williams enjoying a host of excellent performances from players in all sections.

Fine rendition

That was certainly the case in the 12 & Under Slow Melody category as the honours went to horn player Hannah Schofield-Lea from Huddersfield Youth, who gave a fine rendition of 'On My Own'. Second place went to Ellie Warren from Rochdale Youth, with Ainslee Farrar of Elland Silver Youth in third.

There were also awards for the Youngest Player, which went to 9-year old Holly Baker from Hammonds Mighty Oaks, and an Adjudicator's Award which was won by Zach Schofield-Lea on Eb Bass.

Tuba impression

Glyn was particularly impressed by Zach’s playing and sound, and Zach later also took the Les Neish ‘Best Bass’ award of the day too.

There was plenty of fine playing on show in the 16 & Under Section, where Gemma Riley from Wigan Youth claimed the honours with her account of Handel's 'Where'er You Walk', picking up the ‘Best Trombone’ award along the way.

Second place and the ‘Best Cornet’ award went to James Atkins of Diggle playing 'Share My Yoke', with Bethan Brown of Foresters Brass 2000 in third.

Pushing

In the 16 & Under Duets, the title went to Ainslee & Edwin Farrar from Elland Training Band, with Lewis & Evie from Marsden Juniors pushing them all the way in second. In the 16 & Under Quartets, it was Pemberton Sticky Valves who emerged victorious.

After a fine lunch provided by the Mobile Cafe, hosted by Marsden member Kathleen Coton and KC Classic Catering, the closely fought Open Slow Melody Section saw Fairey Band’s Sarah Lenton eventually claimed the first prize.

Outstanding

Her outstanding performance of John Golland’s 'Ballade', also gained her the 'Outstanding Performance of the Day' and Glyn Williams ‘Best Euphonium/Baritone’ Award.

Ian McCormick of Thoresby Colliery was a fine runner-up with his rendition of 'The Swan' to also claim the ‘Highest Placed Outsider’ award. Patricia Woodings from Newhall playing ‘Softly Awakes My Heart’ was third, taking the ‘Best Horn of the Day’ award.

Three trophies

However, in the Veterans Section, Patricia, who took home three trophies for her fine efforts, claimed top honours with Ian Gill from Lindley close behind.

In the Duet category, Sarah Lenton and Leanne Stamp from the RNCM took first prize with their rendition of 'The Prayer', arranged by Luc Vertommen.

There was keen competition on show in the Quartets, with 4Corners Brass euphonium quartet from the RNCM performing four pieces from ‘A Folk Suite’’, arranged by Sean Peterson. Diggle Basses were second thanks to their performance of Eric Ball's ‘Quartet for Tubas’.

Results:

12 & Under Slow Melody:
1. Hannah Schofield-Lea
2. Ellie Warren
3. Ainslee Farrar

Youngest Player: Holly Baker (age 9)
Adjudicator's Award: Zach Schofield-Lea

16 & Under Slow Melody:
1. Gemma Riley
2. James Atkins
3. Bethan Brown

16 & Under Duet:
1. Edwin & Ainslee Farrar
2. Lewis & Evie

16 & Under Quartet:
1. Pemberton Sticky Valves

Open Slow Melody:
1. Sarah Lenton
2. Ian McCormick
3. Patricia Woodings
4. Luke Dempsey

Veterans Slow Melody:
1. Patricia Woodings
2. Ian Gill

Open Duet:
1. Sarah Lenton & Leanne Stamp

Open Quartet:
1. 4Corners Brass
2. Diggle Basses

Special Awards:
Cornet: James Atkins
Horn: Patricia Woodings
Trombone: Gemma Riley
Euphonium/Baritone: Sarah Lenton
Bass: Zach Schofield-Lea

Highest Placed Outsider: Ian McCormick
Outstanding Performance of the Day: Sarah Lenton

Thanks to Tommy Tynan

St Austell lead the centenary celebrations in Bugle by claiming the Royal Trophy.

The sun certainly shone in the heart of Cornwall on the weekend as 22 bands performed at the 89th Bandsmans Festival Contest in Bugle.

Tradition

Once again competitors kept up the tradition of marching through the local village to the contest field whilst being judged for their deportment along the way, before taking a breather ahead of the start of the seven sections that make up the famous festival event.

The contest was adjudicated by Cory MD Philip Harper, who composed two of the test pieces used on the day, whilst presentations were made by the Lord Lieutenant of Cornwall, Colonel Edward Bolitho OBE, who also enjoyed the competitive atmosphere.

Championship Section:

He was on hand to present the Royal Trophy to the Championship Section winners St Austell on behalf of the Prince of Wales, Duke of Cornwall, whose great uncle, the then Prince of Wales, gave the unique trophy to the Festival exactly 100 years ago.

It was also fitting that the clear four point St Austell triumph under the baton of Melvin White came on the set work, ‘English Heritage’ written by Cornish composer George Lloyd, who was also born 100 years ago on the 28th June this year.

The presentation also included a signed certificate from the Prince of Wales to mark the centenary achievement. St Austell also took the set hymn melody honours on ‘Jerusalem’, with principal cornet Hannah Hawken taking the ‘Best Player’ Award and Sam Johns the ‘Best Soprano’ trophy.

Championship Section rivals St Dennis was second, claiming the ‘Best Basses’ award along the way, with the newly formed Roche Brass in third, with the experienced Mark Letcher taking the ‘Best Horn’ prize.

First Section:

In the First Section, it was National Finalist Lanner & District under Stuart Chappell who secured a set work and march tune ‘double’ thanks to their fine performances of ‘The Kingdom of Dragons’ and ‘The Flying Eagle’, with euphonium player Matthew Rowe claiming the ‘Best Player’ award.

Local favourites Bugle Silver was second, with St Pinnock, who won the Bolitho Challenge Shield, originally presented to the Festival in 1922 by the family of the current Lord Lieutenant of Cornwall, in third.

Second Section:

Former Championship Section winners Bodmin Town continued their upward progress by making it a Second Section ‘double’ under Garry Lannie, thanks to their twin performances of ‘A Gallimaufry Suite’ and the march ‘Royal Trophy’.

The band’s flugel player Michelle Hudson won the ‘Best Player’ award, whilst West of England Area champion Swindon Pegasus Brass was runner-up.

Third Section:

Heyl Town produced a fine performance of Gilbert Vinter’s ‘Vizcaya’ to claim the Third Section honours with horn player Adrian Allen taking the ‘Best Player’ Award.

The talented youngsters of West of England Fourth Section Area champions Camborne Junior Contesting showed that they are in cracking form ahead of their trip to Cheltenham as they ended runner-up, after earlier winning the Fourth Section title under MD Alan Pope. Tadley Concert Brass was third.

Fourth Section:

Camborne certainly enjoyed their Bugle appearance, as earlier in the day they won the Fourth Section title thanks to a lovely rendition of Eric Ball’s ‘Petit Suite de Ballet’, aided by the excellent ‘Best Player’ contribution of euphonium player David Wilton.

In an encouraging field of seven contenders it was Lostwithiel Town under the vastly experienced Denzil Stephens who eventually came second with Okehampton Excelsior Silver in third.

Youth & Training Sections:

There was plenty of excellent music making on show in the Youth and Training Sections, with Mount Charles Youth conducted by Jeremy Taylor pipping their rivals from St Austell to claim the youth honours and Lanner & District’s Brass Academy making it a day to remember by taking the Training Section title under MD Philip Matthews.

The never ending production line of musical talent in these parts continues to unearth some great young players, with Megan Thomas of Mount Charles claiming the ‘Best Player’ Award and Jacob Griffiths of St Austell taking the ‘Best Cornet’ prize in the Youth Section.

Lanner Brass Academy kit player Daniel Matthews and cornet player Oscar Wills of St Stythians took the individual awards in the Training Section.

The AR Trudgian Youth Awards were presented to rising stars Megan Thomas and Matthew Julian, whilst amongst the many young musicians taking part were Ieuan and Lamorna Richards, members of the St Austell Youth Band, whose Great Great-Grandfather, F J P Richards, was the founding Secretary of the Festival in 1912.

Results:

Adjudicator: Philip Harper

Championship Section:
Test Piece: English Heritage (George Lloyd)

1. St Austell (Melvin White) - 192
2. St Dennis (Darren Hawken) - 188
3. Roche Brass (Simon Badge) - 187
4. Egham (Gareth J Green) - 185

Melody: Jerusalem (Sir Hubert Parry arr. Philip Sparke)

1. St Austell (Melvin White) - 190
2. St Dennis, Darren Hawken) - 189
3. Roche Brass (Simon Badge) - 187
4. Egham (Gareth J Green) - 185

Best Player Award: Hannah Hawken - cornet (St Austell)

First Section:
Test Piece: Kingdom of Dragons (Philip Harper)

1. Lanner & District (Stuart Chappell) - 190
2. Bugle Silver (Jeremy Willcock) - 189
3. St Pinnock (Chris Spreadbury) - 187

March: Flying Eagle (H L Blankenburg arr. Aubrey Winter)
1. Lanner & District (Stuart Chappell) - 191
2. Bugle Silver (Jeremy Willcock) - 189
3. St Pinnock (Chris Spreadbury) - 187

Best Player Award: Matthew Rowe—euphonium (Lanner & District)

Second Section:
Test Piece: A Gallimaufry Suite (Philip Harper)

1. Bodmin Town (Garry Lannie) - 182
2. Swindon Pegasus Brass (Graeme Lewis) - 181

March: Royal Trophy (William Rimmer)
1. Bodmin Town (Garry Lannie) - 186
2. Swindon Pegasus Brass (Graeme Lewis) - 184

Best Player Award: Michelle Hudson - flugel (Bodmin)

Third Section:
Test Piece: Vizcaya (Gilbert Vinter)

1. Heyl Town (N/K) - 182
2. Camborne Junior Contesting (Alan Pope) - 179
3. Tadley Concert Brass (Paul Chapman) - 178

Best Player Award: Adrian Allen—horn (Heyl Town)

Fourth Seciton:
Test Piece: Petit Suite De Ballet (Eric Ball)

1. Camborne Junior Contest (Alan Pope) - 180
2. Lostwithiel Town (Denzil Stephens) - 178
3. Okehampton Excelsior Silver (Richard Beardon) - 177
4. Porthleven Town (Tom Bassett) - 175
5. Tadley Concert Brass (Paul Chapman) - 174
6. Pendeen Silver (David Hamilton) - 173
7. Indian Queens Silver (Kevin Ackford) - 172

Best Player Award: David Wilton—euphonium (Camborne Junior Contest)

Youth Section:
Own Choice:

1. Mount Charles Youth (Jeremy Taylor) - 180
2. St Austell Youth (Mark Arnold) - 178

Best Players Awards:
Best Player: Megan Thomas—euphonium (Mount Charles Youth)
Best Cornet: Jacob Griffiths (St Austell)

E J Williams Memorial Trophy to the Winning Conductor: Jeremy Taylor

Training Section:
Own Choice

1. Lanner Brass Academy (Philip Matthews) - 180
2. St Stythians (N/K) - 177
3. Indian Queens (Barbara George) - 176

Best Player Awards:
Best Player: Daniel Matthews—Drum Kit (Lanner Brass Academy)
Best Cornet: Oscar Wills (St Stythians)

Special Awards:
Open to all Sections.

Best Soprano: Sam Johns (St Austell)
Best Solo Cornet: Hannah Hawken (St Austell)
Best Euphonium: Matthew Rowe (Lanner & District)
Best Solo Horn: Mark Letcher (Roche Brass)
Best Set of Basses: St Dennis

AR Trudgian Youth Awards:
Megan Thomas (Mount Charles) & Matthew Julian (Camborne)

Deportment Class:
1. Okehampton Excelsior Silver
2. Bugle Silver

The highly respected Les Palmer is stepping down from his Band Manager role at Reg Vardy Band after 20 years.

Reg Vardy has announced that due to increased work commitments, the highly respected Les Palmer (right of picture behind the Grand Shield) has stepped down as Band Manager after 20 years of unparallel commitment and service to the North East band.

Golden period

A spokesperson told 4BR: "Les has led us through thick and thin, and was at the organisational helm during the ‘golden period’, which included a top four finish at the National Finals in 2004, competing at the World Championships in 2005, and going on to win the Grand Shield in 2011 to secure the band’s return to the British Open."

Unstinting

They added: "Les has given unstintingly of his time and effort during his time as Band Manager, and everyone associated with the Reg Vardy Band would like to express their heartfelt thanks for his sterling work."

New Band Manager

New Band Manager Graeme Tindall is aware that Les will be a hard act to follow.

"I would like to thank Les for his hard work, stalwart support and loyalty as Band Manager when many others would and could have easily fallen by the wayside.

I have great respect for his achievements and I know have big shoes to fill. I will certainly do my best with the help and support of Les and a newly formed committee that has the drive and passion to succeed."

Active

Les will remain an active member of the Reg Vardy committee, handling contest registration and logistics, although all correspondence regarding the band should now be directed to Graeme Tindall, on 07815 185935, or by email

18 year old Jamie Smith is to take over as Musical Director of the Hammonds Youth Band.

The Hammonds Youth Band has announced the appointment of Jamie Smith as its first Musical Director.

Jamie, 18, (right of picture) was previously principal cornet of the former Sellers International Youth Band, and will now combine his new role with his current position of principal cornet of the Hammonds Saltaire Band.

Excited

He told 4BR: "I’m very excited and privileged to be given this opportunity. Even though I’m still young I believe I can continue to improve the band’s performances and the young musicians.

I have had a long association with the Sellers International Youth Band, and I‘m honoured to be able to continue the good work under the Hammonds Saltaire banner."

Thanks

The band has taken the opportunity to thank Alex Kerwin, the former MD of the Sellers International Youth Band, whose enthusiasm and hard work developed the Mighty Oaks and Little Acorns Training Bands which helped rescue the future of the Youth Band when many players were lost.

Skelmanthorpe claim the march & hymn tune honours at Morley

There was an excellent turn out of competitors at the popular Morley March & Hymn Tune Contest on the weekend, with a head to head battle between Yorkshire Championship Section rivals Skelmanthorpe and Marsden Silver for the £500 first prize.

Nip and tuck

It really was nip and tuck between the two bands for the Crispin Trophy.

Under the baton of John Roberts Skelmanthorpe managed to overturn a one point deficit from their march performance of ‘The President’ into an overall one point winning margin thanks to a fine rendition of their hymn tune ‘Praise My Soul’, which also gained them an extra £60 in prize money.

Marsden conducted by Glyn Williams had led the way with their rousing performance of ‘Knight Templar’ but couldn’t quite maintain their grasp on the title as they ended third in the hymn tune element with their selection of ‘Love Unknown’.

They had to be content with the £275 and the PDQ Shield on offer for coming runner-up, although that was boosted by a further £60 for producing the best contest march, whilst their soprano player Dale Garner won the ‘Best Instrumentalist’ Award.

Close run podium race

There was an equally close run battle for the final podium slot, with Yorkshire Imperial DUT claiming third place, the Howard Maden Trophy and £150 in prize ahead of Hade Edge by virtue of gaining a higher mark on the march element.

Hade Edge, Crofton, Garforth and Elmfield took their appropriate section awards, with Hade Edge Youth claiming the overall Youth title and best youth march award. Deportment prizes went to Harrogate and Tewit Youth.

Fine style

Skelmanthorpe’s winning MD John Roberts told 4BR that the decision to enter the contest for the first time had paid off in fine style for his band.

"It’s such a well run event that we felt we would give it a go this year. It’s a great contest, and with the fine weather it turned out to be a great day for the band too.

We hope to take part in more contests such as this, starting at the Brighouse event in a few weeks time, especially as there are generous prize pots on offer for all the competing bands at different levels."

Contest Controller Geoff Folwer added: "It was a cracking contest this year—with great weather a real bonus to add the tremendous playing from everyone who took part. We couldn’t have asked for anything better."

Results:
Adjudicators: Fred Ashworth, Steve Pritchard-Jones, Rob Collinson, Duncan Beckley

March/Hymn Tune = Total

1. Skelmanthorpe (John Roberts): 191/192 = 383
2. Marsden Silver (Glyn Williams): 192/190 = 382
3. Yorkshire Imperial DUT (David Nesbitt): 190/187 = 377
4. Hade Edge (Simon Wood): 189/188 = 377
5. Drighlington (Jim Davies): 188/186 = 374
6. Kippax (David Lancaster): 186/184 = 370
7. Crofton Silver (Kevin Belcher): 185/183 = 368
8. Hade Edge Youth (Simon Wood): 182/180 = 362
9. Elmfield Brass (Stockport) (Jack Bennett): 181/181 = 362
10. Gawthorpe Brass 85 (John Edward): 183/176 = 359
11. Shirland Welfare Training (Dave Harvey): 180/177 = 357
12. Garforth Brass (Mark Wildie): 179/178 = 357
13. Harrogate (Craig Ratcliffe): 178/179 = 357
14. Tewit Youth Intermediate (Steve Heninghem): 177/175 = 352

Skelmanthorpe B and Stanley Newmarket Colliery both withdrew

Awards:
Overall Champion:(£500): Skelmanthorpe
2nd place (£275): Marsden Silver
3rd place (£150): Yorkshire Imperial DUT

Best First Section Band: (£100): Hade Edge
Best Second Section Band: (£100): Crofton
Best Third Section Band: (£75): Garforth
Best Fourth Section Band: (£75): Elmfield
Best Youth Band: (£75): Hade Edge Youth

Best Contest March: (£60): Marsden Silver
Best Hymn Tune: (£60): Skelmanthorpe

Best Youth Hymn Tune: Hade Edge Youth
Best Road March: (£50): Imps

Best Instrumentalist: Dale Garner—soprano (Marsden Silver)

Best Deportment: (£40): Harrogate
Best Youth Deportment:(£40): Tewit Youth

Besson Musical Instruments is the latest high profile partner to team up wit the Foden's Youth Band.

Reigning British Open and National Champions Foden's have announced that Besson Musical Instruments have become an official partner of the Foden's Youth Band.

Success

Now approaching the end of its first academic year, the Youth Band has enjoyed considerable success with acclaimed performances at Manchester Cathedral, the Royal Northern College of Music and most recently at Fallibroome Academy in Macclesfield.

The band’s final performance before the summer break will be in the picturesque surroundings of Gawsworth Hall's open air theatre in July.

Partners

Besson now join Love Music Trust (leader of the Cheshire East Music Hub) and the Royal Northern College of Music as major partners supporting the band.

Co-ordinator Ian Raisbeck told 4BR: "It’s fantastic news that Besson have joined us in supporting young brass talent. With their help we are now able to plan a number of exciting new projects for the next academic year."

Applications

Applications for new members to join the band are open to players aged 21 or under and of Grade 5 standard or higher.

Anybody interested should see http:/­/­www.fodensband.co.uk/

Reigning champion to hold an open rehearsal ahead of their English National title defence.

The reigning English National Champion, Black Dyke will be holding an open rehearsal ahead of their title defence in Birmingham on 29th June.

Time and date

Under the baton of Director of Music Dr Nicholas Childs, they will hold the open event at Morley Town Hall on Tuesday 25th June, starting promptly at 8.00pm.

Bass theme

Both the English National Championship set work, George Lloyd’s ‘Diversions on a Bass Theme’ and the band’s own choice selection will be performed.

Admission is free and doors open at 7.30pm.

There is a fantastic new blog that tells you all you need to know about the brilliant Wessex EEb tuba.

There is a brilliant new way to find out why the Wessex EEb tuba is considered to offer the best value money can buy thanks to a brand new blog on the Wessex Tuba website .

Low down

Written by Jonathan Hodgetts its give the low down on all aspects of the instrument—from lead pipe and slides, to valves, lyres box and even the cases it comes in.

It all there with helpful images too, so why not find out for yourself just why the Wessex EEb tuba is so special.

Go to:

Go to: http:/­/­www.wessex-tubas.co.uk/­what-makes-eeb-special/

More information:

Jonathan Hodgetts
Wessex Tubas
2 Wessex Gardens
Andover, Hampshire
SP10 3JD, UK

Email:
Tel. +44(0)7787 504987
website: www.Wessex-Tubas.co.uk
facebook page: http:/­/­www.facebook.com/­WessexTubas

An intrepid member of the Eccles Band is to run the length of Hadrian's Wall to help get his band to Cheltenham.

This coming weekend, one of Eccles Borough’s cornet players, Ross Malloy will certainly be wondering what the Romans did for us, by running the length of Hadrian’s Wall.

The Wall

Ross will be taking part in the expert category of ‘The Wall’ event, and is aiming to raise funds for Eccles trip to the National Finals in Cheltenham this September.

Ross will attempt to run the 69 mile wall in one continuous journey with the aim of completing the run in less than 24 hours - starting on Saturday morning at Carlisle Castle, and finishing at Baltic Quay in Newcastle.

More information

More information about the amazing challenge can be found at:
http:/­/­www.ecclesboroughband.org/­news/­ross-to-run-hadrians-wall

There have been some comings and goings at the Medway Band of late.

The Medway Band has welcomed new signings and returnees whilst saying goodbye to some long standing members.

Leaving

Soprano player David Cooper joins Redbridge having played with them at the Butlins Mineworkers Contest earlier this year (as well as Wingates at the last moment).

Also moving is long serving member, Ken Bonser-Ward, who joins Aveley & Newham Band - joining his friend David Daws on the euphonium bench.

A spokesperson told 4BR: "David has been a member of the band for many years and is regarded as one of the best soprano cornet players in the south- east. Ken, who lives north of the River Thames, will now find the commute to band somewhat easier.

We wish them good luck in their new ventures and thank them for their contribution during the band's recent progress."

Coming

New signings and returnees come in the form of Phil Neeve and Tina Hall, both from Aveley & Newham, Phil Carruthers-Smith from Betteshanger, Mervyn Andrew and Jon Reed.

Jon, a postgraduate of Trinity Laban Conservatoire rejoins the band having returned to the UK following a year teaching brass and music theory at the Edward Said National Conservatoire of Music in Palestine.

The Lanner & District organisation certainly enjoyed their trip to Bugle on the weekend.

Lanner & District Silver Band enjoyed a thoroughly successful time of it in the heart of Cornwall on the weekend as both their Senior and Academy bands enjoyed contesting success.

Outstanding

Under the baton of Stuart Chappell, the seniors took home the First Section title thanks to outstanding performances of the set work, ‘Kingdom of Dragons’ and the march, ‘Flying Eagle’, with euphonium star Matthew Rowe claiming the ‘Best Player’ Award.

The birthday boy certainly enjoyed himself and later told 4BR: "I had a great day. I came off stage feeling really good and was pleased with how I played and felt very proud to be part of the performances we gave."

Off to Wales

It was Matthew’s penultimate performance with the band, as after his final appearance at the National Finals in Cheltenham, he will take up his place at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama in Cardiff.

MD Stuart Chappell added: "I set the band a challenge of preparing in just six rehearsals, and each and every player came up trumps. We’re especially proud of Matthew Rowe and for him to secure a place at the Royal Welsh College proves just how far he’s developed as a player with us."

Not outdone

Not to be outdone, the Lanner Academy Band under Phil Matthews took the Training Band Section honours, with percussionist Daniel Matthews also claiming the ‘Best Player’ Award.

Academy Director (and proud father), Phil Matthews told 4BR: "This was only the third contest the Academy has competed in. All our players have been trained from scratch by us and I’m so proud of them all.

At Lanner, we have a well structured programme which welcomes anyone into the organisation where they can play in the Academy Band and hopefully go on to play in the senior band."

Sweeter

A proud Band Chairman Lee Rouse rounded added: "What made the day even sweeter was that we were able to perform the road march version we recently commissioned of ‘The Lanner Falcon’ written for the band in 1995 by Goff Richards.

Since the news item about the piece was published on 4BR, so much interest was shown that we are now looking to publish the concert version and I’m sure more details of that will follow in due course."

Details of the NABBC Masterclass with Richard Evans on Sunday 7th July have been revealed.

The National Association of Brass Band Conductors has confirmed details of its forthcoming masterclass event in West Yorkshire on Sunday 7th July.

Respected leads

To be held at Bertie's Banqueting Rooms in Elland, it will be led by Richard Evans, supported by highly respected trumpeter Murray Greig, Mike Kilroy and Mareika Gray, Musical Director of 2013 Grand Shield winners Milnrow.

Excellent

NABBC Chairman Andrew White told 4BR: "Responses from players to perform with Milnrow at the event, and from existing and new conductors to direct the massed band has been excellent so far.

It’s expected that the confirmation of respected conductors will further popularise the event, extend networking and make the seminars even more enjoyable.

The conductors will also be supported by numerous experienced directors and adjudicators from the NABBC who will be on hand to offer advice and assistance."

Opportunities

Registration is at 9.30am and participants will need to note that the entire day will be based on practical interactions and experiences, including an opportunity to learn and perform a new item by composer Paul Lovatt-Copper.

The event will conclude at 4.00pm.

More information:

The full programme is now advertised on the NABBC website together with the bibliographies of each of the directors.

Go to: http:/­/­www.nabbc.org.uk/

Secure your place

To secure your place at this Arts Council sponsored event please at Bertie's Banqueting Rooms, Elland, West Yorkshire, HX5 9AW on Sunday 7th July, contact:

NABBC Secretary or National Chairman

Alternatively call 07973 727881

Garrath Beckwith is over the moon after playing the fantastic new JP233 Rath Bass Trombone.

Garrath Beckwith, the highly respected bass trombonist of the Grimethrope Colliery Band, recently tried out the new JP233 Rath Bass Trombone, the latest JP/Michael Rath collaboration.

Tested

Having tested out the instrument in a variety of both professional and informal settings, he had the following to say about the quality of the new JP233 Rath:

"Craftsmanship is something that we come to expect of the JP instrument range and the JP233RATH does not disappoint!

I have bought a variety of instruments from the highly successful collaborations between top British instrument manufacturers and John Packer, and my first job was to check all the joints that hold the bell section together as this is sometimes an area for improvement."

Impressed

He added: "I was massively impressed, as they were all neatly finished with excellent high quality (80:20) lacquer work.

The quality of the slide is what we come to expect from a Michael Rath designed product—a smooth action with a quality response. The slide width is perfect for both amateur and professional players—with great ergonomics that give a comfortable feel when holding the instrument.

The weight of the trombone is well balanced - aided by a removable counterweight. The instrument is entirely made of dark yellow brass and the finish is immaculate.

Overall, you have to say that many student/mid-level bass trombones feel light and flimsy, but the JP233RATH goes against this stigma with a real feel of quality. I consider the build quality of the JP233RATH to be simply fantastic."

Fantastic value

In summary of his experience with the JP233 Rath, Garrath added: "This bass trombone offers fantastic value for money and is an excellent addition to the market for a mid-level/single valve bass trombone.

The JP233RATH is a serious alternative for the higher level performer who requires a lighter sounding or a single valve instrument for chamber music. If I had received one of these instruments as my first ever serious bass trombone I would have been over the moon!

I heartily recommend JP233RATH and applaud John Packer and Michael Rath for providing trombonists with yet another excellent trombone in the JP/Rath range. Roll on the next one!"

Read more:

To read Garrath’s whole review, visit the John Packer Blog at www.johnpacker.co.uk/­blog

The JP233 Rath is available now from £954.

More info:

For further information contact Steve Herbert, Brass Manager at .

Why not keep up to date with John Packer news, events, competitions and more. You can like them on Facebook at facebook.com/johnpackerltd, follow them on Twitter at twitter.com/johnpackerltd or visit their blog at johnpacker.co.uk/blog

Black Dyke's Zoe Hancock recently tested the new Ray Farr Signature Raw Brass flugel - and was suitably impressed.

Black Dyke's Zoe Hancock recently put the Ray Farr Signature Raw Brass flugel through its paces in a review for Brass Band World magazine.

This is what she thought:

"It’s always exciting when a new flugel horn comes on the market.

I first heard about the Ray Farr Signature Raw Brass Flugel when I was in America doing some guest soloist work in October last year.

Unfortunately, I couldn’t answer any questions about the instrument because, at the time, I hadn’t seen or played it.

I’ve had the instrument for three weeks now and have thoroughly enjoyed having a blow on this unique redesigned flugel."

Intonation:

"Flugel horns are probably the hardest instruments to get in tune, but I was very impressed by the intonation of this instrument, right from the bottom to the top of the register."

Ease of Blowing/Tone:

"In a brass band the flugel horn is part of the horn section and either doubles up with the solo horn, or is heard as the highest voice. Therefore, the tone of the flugel should be mellow and rich to match with the middle of the band.

The Ray Farr Signature Raw Brass Flugel does have a good tone, especially in the lower and middle registers. Also, you can hear all the clarity coming through when double and triple tonguing or playing technical passages, unlike other flugels where sometimes it can get lost.

It is remarkably free blowing in the middle and lower registers, although for me personally, it wasn’t quite as easy in the upper register, especially in the quieter dynamics.

Trying to play a quiet and controlled high A or over at pianissimo proved tricky. All players are different, but for me though the higher register wasn’t as free blowing as my own instrument." (Vincent Bach Stradivarius)

Design:

"The designer, Chris Waters of County Instruments has totally changed the design of the instrument.

The valve case is now the same side of the bell as a Bb cornet, which for most flugel players will probably take some time to get used to due to the different hand position.

The size of the bell is a lot larger than most flugel horns, which is great for amplifying the sound, and the valves are great too—really slick and fast.

The instrument is also Bell Stayless—a strong tapered ferrule enabling both ends of the main bow and bell to butt totally, proving the strongest of joints that enables forceful mute twisting insertion and withdrawal, as well as (say the manufacturer) providing ‘smooth sine wave air-flow throughout the conical bell, being free from nodal point wave distortions and damaging interruptions, giving the truest of sounds.’"

Overall:

"A very good instrument and a design that I think flugel players will take time to get used to, if they do decide to by.

The intonation is the best I have ever played, which I feel the other leading flugels haven’t mastered yet."

More information:
http:/­/­www.rawbrass.co.uk/

Read the full review and buy Brass Band World Magazine
http:/­/­brassbandworld.com/

Young trumpet star pays his own musical tribute to one of the world's great performers.

Young trumpet star Mark Harrison has released his own personal tribute to the late Derek Watkins, following the recent news of the great player’s untimely death.

Dedicate

Mark told 4BR: "I had been working on board a cruise ship straight out of my studies at the RNCM in Manchester, and was looking forward to getting on dry land and doing some recording.

I was in Rio when the news came through to the ship, and I was devastated. I decided then and there that the moment I landed on some British soil that I would dedicate a recording to him and do what I could to support his wonderful legacy."

Click

He added: "I chose this piece, as in my final year I became good friends with American trumpeter Rex Richardson when he visited as a tutor to the RNCM. We performed it together and it really seemed to click with me, and it was the first thing that popped into my head when I thought of what to do.

I've made it downloadable on iTunes for £0.99 with proceeds going straight to Derek's Super C foundation, the charity set up to fight Sarcoma."

Multi track

The multi-track recording featuring Mark playing all the parts can be seen and heard at:

http:/­/­www.youtube.com/­watch?v=-kVssmgKjtQ

https:/­/­itunes.apple.com/­gb/­album/­theres-great-day-coming-single/­id661260230

The Pershore Festival of Brass is getting ready to welcome the sun as well as the bands and the crowds this weekend.

The days leading up to this weekend’s Pershore Midsummer Brass Festival has seen the organising committee anxiously tapping barometers, checking mobile phone weather apps and scanning local weather reports to try and ensure that the sun will shine on their popular event once more.

Omens good

Thankfully the omens for the weekend look great, with fine weather promised by the Met Office.

After all the hard work put in by the organisers, all that is needed to make it a perfect day in Pershore is for the big yellow globe of happiness to show its face, as it will enable hundreds of people to enjoy a feast of great brass band music making.

Hard work

Work has been going on at the local Baptist Church, Pershore Abbey (above) and Chapman Court, as well as at the Angel Inn, where the festival kicks off with a free concert on Friday night.

Wonderful day

Saturday promises to be a wonderful day of entertainment so why not get along and enjoy the music making amid some pretty impressive surroundings.

Tickets

It all kicks off on Saturday July 6th at 10.00am—and goes on all the way to 10.00pm. The wonderful massed youth bands even start at 9.30am Chapman Court!

An all day ticket costs just £12—and under 10s are free!

Hard working players and members gain recognition at Foresters Brass 2000 awards night.

Foresters Brass 2000 recently made their annual awards in recognition of the efforts of their players and members during the past year or more.

Awards

The ‘Bandsman of the Year’ award went to Chris Brown.

Chris joined last year and has since become an integral part of the band, playing front row cornet, being an active committee member, webmaster and taking responsibility for looking after the players of Youth Brass 2000.

Most improved

MD Pete Collins presented Helen Parker Bates with ‘The Most Improved Player / Best Performance Award for 2012—2013’, making reference to her outstanding performances in the past year or more.

Meanwhile, the ‘Best Section Award’ award went to EEb tuba section of Sue Wong, Laura Moore and Laura Brown.

Kevin MacKenzie will take up the conducting duties at Camborne for a second time.

Following the departure of David Hamilton to pursue a musical career in the British Army, the Camborne Band has announced the appointment of new Musical Director, Kevin Mackenzie.

Second stint

This will be Kevin’s second stint with Camborne after previously conducting between 2009 & 2011.

During his initial tenure the band secured a number of contest successes and qualified to make two appearances at the National Finals as well as claiming a hat-trick of victories at the West of England Bandsman’s Festival in Bugle.

Welcome return

His return has been welcomed by Band Chairman Nick Sanders, who told 4BR: "We would like to thank David Hamilton for all his hard work and wish him all the success in his new career, and we are also delighted to be able to team up with Kevin once more.

His first stint with us was a great success and everyone is looking forward to working with him once again. We are sure that together with John Berryman we have a tremendous team to direct our performances over the coming year."

Pleasure

Meanwhile, Kevin added: "It’s a great pleasure to accept the invitation to return to become part of the team once more as MD. This is a great opportunity to work with a forward thinking band on some exciting collaborations and musical projects.

There are few bands with the heritage and history of Camborne and it is an honour to be appointed to this role."

Kevin’s first conducting engagement with the band was the George Lloyd Centenary Concert in St Ives earlier this month.

There is still time to bag your place on the latest YAGO music technology course

Yago Music Group is accepting last minute bookings for its latest training day entitled, 'Demystifying Music Technology', which will be held on Friday 5th July at the iconic Wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff Bay.

Confidence builder

The workshop is primarily aimed at teachers who would like to build their confidence in the area of music technology.

YAGO have designed a workshop that caters for those who have no or little previous experience in the area.

Goal

The goal of the day is for the attendee to leave with the confidence and knowledge to teach the basics of BTEC and A level music technology.

Topics covered during the day include:

• Introducing Cubase
• Programming & editing MIDI
• Microphone technique
• Recording instruments
• Editing audio
• Mixing a song
• Mastering

Experienced delivery

The cost of the day is now ONLY £149 ex. VAT.

The price includes a private technical consultancy session to set-up your studio, please ring for further information.

The workshop will be delivered by three experienced music technology practitioners James Clarke, Jim Unwin and Rob Whitehead

Go to:
http:/­/­yagomusicgroup.com/