Spring Roundup
The first half of 2010 is proving to be a busy one for the Band! After a successful concert at Immanuel Church - Swindon in January and a concert at Wootton Bassett Bowls Club (a new venue for the Band), we set our sights on the West of England Area contest which took place in Torquay. The rehearsals went well but a few slips on the contest stage left the door open for other bands to take advantage, and thus the results placed the Band back in 6th position. Full results below;
| Position
| Band
| Draw
|
| 1
| Portishead Town
| 11
|
| 2
| Bournemouth Concert Brass
| 5
|
| 3
| St Austell Town
| 12
|
| 4
| Camborne 'B'
| 9
|
| 5
| Verwood Concert Brass
| 10
|
| 6
| Aldbourne
| 2
|
| 7
| Chalford
| 4
|
| 8
| Lanner and District Silver
| 6
|
| 9
| Hyde
| 14
|
| 10
| Storm Brass
| 1
|
| 11
| Michelmersh Silver
| 13
|
| 12
| Otterbourne Brass
| 7
|
| 13
| Lympstone South West Telecoms
| 3
|
| 14
| Ocean Brass
| 8
|
Aprils highlight was the recording of the bands third CD which should be on sale before the Village Festival and Pond Concert season. This CD marks the 150th anniversary of the Band and contains a varied programme which will entertain all musical tastes. Look out for it on sale during the summer.
Here are some pictures taken during the recording weekend. Thanks to Jane Palmer and Diane Harman for feeding and watering the troops and of course Claire Smith for the venue - Hungerford Primary School.
May brings with it the annual trip to Blackpool to the Winter Gardens where the band will compete in the Senior Trophy. We are hoping for a better result than last year which saw the Band relegated down from the Senior Cup.
The Village Festival takes place at the end of May and the events where the band are playing are listed in the section below. You will however see band members taking part in events all over the weekend so keep your eyes peeled!
Aldbourne Festival 2010
Band Events
Saturday 22nd May from 19:30 - Festival Ball
Sunday 30th May 19:30 - Aldbourne Band and The Song Men Male Voice Choir - St Michael's Church
Monday 31st May - Closing Ceremony (after Hobby Horse Racing and BBQ)
January 2010 news roundup
As Autumn gave way to Winter the Band took part in four Christmas Concerts. Firstly the Christmas Cracker with the Kentwood Choir in the Wyvern Theatre Swindon then Holy Cross Church (Chiseldon), Haydon Bowls Club (Haydon Wick) and finally St Michael's Church (Aldbourne). The Christmas period is always a very important time for the band as the majority of funds for the contesting season are raised at this time. We are very grateful for all those who attended and donated. We hope you enjoyed it!
2010 marks the 150th anniversary of Aldbourne Band and the band are looking forward to what will be hopefully a successful year ahead.
We are delighted to welcome back Chris Lewis on Principal Cornet as well as Rob Dodd on Solo Eb Bass, Liz Masson on Percussion, Andy Chalk on Solo Cornet, Rachael Barnes-Chalk on 2ndhorn and Andrew Fielden on 2nd Trombone. Lyndon Baglin is also guesting on 2nd Euphonium.
We are also pleased to announce that David Williams has agreed to accept the post of full time Professional Conductor.
This puts the band in an excellent position for the up and coming contests in Torquay and Blackpool.
On Sat 30th January the band kicked off the year with our first concert at Immanuel Church, Swindon. David Williams relished the opportunity and set the band a challenging programme which included the two upcoming Test Pieces for the West of England and Spring Festival Contests.
For those of you who were unable to attend, we made a recording. Here are a few pieces which include the 3rd movement from "A Moorside Suite" and "Le Roi D'Ys"..
"Test Piece - Moorside Suite (3rd Movement)
The player will show in this paragraph
"Test Piece - Le Roi D'Ys"
The player will show in this paragraph
"Live and Let Die" - Soloist Paul Bilkey
The player will show in this paragraph
"I'll Walk With God"
The player will show in this paragraph
Summer news roundup 2009
The summer series of Pond Concerts saw the band beat the weather 3-1!
June's concert was relegated to the Memorial Hall but spirits were not washed out as the Hall burst at the seams with people even listening to the concert from the kitchen!
July's concert returned to the square and August on the green was another rousing success with large numbers of people enjoying the sunshine and music with David Johnson entertaining the crowd with his 'witty' remarks. His car tyre's are still not slashed...
September saw a successful Carnival procession with the band marching well for a change, as we only march once a year! and the last pond concert and flag lowering was conducted under a clear but cold evening and finished off the summer activities nicely.
The band's summer activites also included playing at several weddings in the area including our own Luke Barnes on Percussion who was Wedded on 22nd August. Our congratulations go to Luke and Emma.
As Autumn is upon us, the band look forward to playing at several events in the area, including a 1940's night on Fri 25th September in the Memorial Hall; a joint concert with Swindon Male Voice choir on Sat 3rd October and of course the Theme Concert in the Church on Sat 31st October (Halloween). The theme this year is obviously Halloween and so look forward to a few magical numbers from the band. Tickets will be available from the usual outlets.
September 2009
Blackpool and Weston Contest Roundup
After a successful trip to Torquay in March, the band looked forward to the two upcoming contests in the 2009 calendar, Blackpool and Weston Super Mare. The band have travelled to Blackpool for a number of years now to take part in the Spring Festival and this year was no different. The test piece for 2009 was Pagentry which proved to be a good piece for bands to play and audiences to listen to.
One week later, the band made the trip to Weston Super Mare for an own choice contest, where bands play a test piece of their choice and are judged on their performance. Own choice contests can be a little tricky as there is a fine balance between the standard of test piece vs the band's ability to play well. Lots of bands in the past have either played too easy a piece but well, or chosen too hard a piece and have been punished accordingly!. As we had just played Pagentry the week before in Blackpool the decision was taken for us. Under the baton of conductor David Johnson, the band aimed to improve on their performance on the previous week and there were plenty of smiling faces on the bus as we departed Weston Super Mare later that evening. The band came 3rd with Principal Cornet Richard Hughes picking up the best cornet player of the section award.
With the contest season over for the next few months, the band look towards our regular season of concerts, starting with the Pond Concert series kicking off on Sunday 7th June at 19:15. As always, the Pond Concert season includes concerts on the 1st Sunday of June, July, August and September. The concerts are relaxed, entertaining and free. Please check the Pond Concert page for further details.
May 2009
West of England Championships
After a 46th successful concert at Immanuel Church, Swindon, the band looked forward to rehearsing the Area test piece 'Salute to Youth' for the 2009 Area Championships held every year in Torquay. This year would be tough due to a somewhat unjustified 12th place in 2008 making relegation to the 1st section a possibility.
The band were determined to put in a top notch performance and had the training skills of David Johnson and Melvin White to call upon. Salute to Youth is split into 3 movements, Resilience, Romance and Relaxation and it proved to be a good test for the Championship bands this year.
March came around and the band travelled down to the 'English Riviera' in good spirits. The weather was gorgeous and sunny and the band had a chance to enjoy the scenery after drawing 10th, second last.
After a great solid performance, we took to the bar to sample the local ales and to await the results. The adjudicators finally took to the stage after some delay and announced the top 6, placing Aldbourne in 6th place. A solid result for the band, putting last years result firmly behind us.
Full results were;
| Pos | Band | Conductor | Dr | Pts |
| 1 | Camborne Town | G. Cutt | 8 | - | |
| 2 | Flowers | Dr. R. Newsome | 5 | - | |
| 3 | Lydbrook | S. Sykes | 11 | - | |
| 4 | Mount Charles | A. Duncan | 2 | - | |
| 5 | SWT Woodfalls | Dr. N. Childs | 9 | - | |
| 6 | Aldbourne | M. White | 10 | - | |
| 7 | Yeovil | D. Barringer | 7 | - | |
| 8 | Helston Town | J. Hitchens | 3 | - | |
| 9 | Bournemouth Concert Brass | J. Camps | 6 | - | |
| 10 | St. Dennis | B. Minear | 1 | - | |
| 11 | St. Keverne | J. Maines | 4 | - | |
|
|
There is no rest for the wicked, and the band have to quickly rehearse for two upcoming concerts, Devizes Corn Exchange as guests with the Great Western Chorus, and at Marlborough with our guests, the Kentwood Choir.
April and May will again be contest preparation for the yearly trip to Blackpool to take part in the Senior Cup at the Winter Gardens.
January 2009
Happy New Year
Happy New Year to all our supporters and we look forward to welcoming you to our first concert of the year at Immanuel Church, Upham Rd, Swindon.
This is our traditional start of year concert and will be the 46th year this concert has taken place. Our guests are Swindon Male Voice Choir under the direction of Max Brockman-More who themselves are celebrating their 90th year, with the church itself also celebrating its 70th anniversary this year.
We had a very busy Christmas period with 4 well received concerts
The four concerts included the very enjoyable Kentwood Cracker, a concert at the invitation by the Friends of Holy Cross Church, Chiseldon, another at the invitation by the Haydon Bowls Club at the Haydon Centre in Swindon and finally our own concert at St Michaels Church, Aldbourne.
All four concerts are different in the venues and the audiences but we enjoy every one of them and we thank the organisers for inviting us to take part.
As well as the concerts carol playing keeps us busy and as well as taking us round the village of Aldbourne (including Christmas morning at 4am) we also visited Sainsbury's and Tesco.
As always the collections we raise are greatly appreciated and we thank every one who gave a donation. The collections go towards the running of the band and enable us to continue to keep entertaining you our supporters in providing "live" concerts.
The last, but not least, news at the start of this year is that we are also very pleased to give a special welcome to our new President John Adey. John lives in the village and has been a supporter of the band for many years and we now look forward to his time as President.
December 2008
New Resident Conductor
The Aldbourne Band is looking forward to an exciting time with the introduction of David Johnson as Resident Conductor. He will take the band on a regular basis in conjunction with our Professional Conductor Melvin White.
David is already introducing an appetite and desire within the band to fight for our place in the Championship section and is setting the challenges for the players to respond to in the future.
The band recognises David's continued commitment to Verwood Concert Brass and we hope they continue to progress under David's leadership.
"I am looking forward to working with Melvin and the band. Aldbourne have a lot of drive and commitment and it is very exciting time for the band and also myself"
David Johnson
Aldbourne Band has been stabilising itself over the last year following a num
ber of personnel changes. Whilst we continue to have a solid nucleus the additi
on of only 3 quality regular players would make a full team.
Please see the classifieds for more information or please visit our Website.
Over the previous summer months Melvin has been greatly supported by Shaun Mu
ndy and David Hayward (not forgetting Dave Williams at the start of the year) and we thank them for their help. We are sure we will still call on their services on occasions in the future.
Philip Ockwell
Chairman
Stars and Stripes Concert
Our regular Theme Concert took place on Saturday 4th October. This year it was decided the theme would be Stars and Stripes. Melvin White took the band and audience through all types of music from across the pond ranging from ¿The New World Symphony¿ to the ¿Muppets¿.
Featured soloists were Ian Barnes, Mat Dixon, Susan White, Dan Ruby and Simon Snow
And not one mention of the Presidential Elections(!)
The church was decorated with the American flags and many band members provided ¿home made¿ cookies for the refreshments at half time. The audience donations for the refreshments nearly made £100 for the Aldbourne Harvest Appeal.
During the evening the Band Chairman made two presentations; the first a retirement presentation to Jesse Jones following 18 years service as President, the second to the Bandsperson of the Year Paul Bilkey.
Thank you to Jesse and Congratulations to Paul.
September 2008
September Pond Concert brings carnival week to a close
The last of the summer Pond Concerts survived the weather and the band were able to provide a full evening of entertainment for the assembled crowd.
Following the August ¿soaking¿ and July being moved to inside the church, it made a pleasant change to return to playing outside again.
As is traditional for the end of Carnival week, the concert concluded with the lowering of the Carnival Flags as Richard Hughes played the Last Post in the band arrangement of ¿Nightfall in Camp¿
Stalwarts Survive Soaking in Summer Proms on the Green
Over 500 staunch supporters of Aldbourne Band survived a soaking when they attended the annual Proms on the Green fund raising concert held last Sunday in the picturesque village of Aldbourne. Those without umbrellas held Union Jacks over their heads and the local pub, The Blue Boar, provided shelter as well as liquid refreshments albeit Hot Toddies instead of Pimms. The Band were fortunately seated on staging kindly provided by Arena Seating of Membury, which kept their feet dry and music stands from sinking.
Rain did not stop play however and the Band treated the audience to a selection of music including a euphonium solo, Springtime Serenade and Polka played by Matthew Dixon and a soprano solo, Demelza played by Paul Bilkey. Songs from Abba were enjoyed by young and old and DVD's of the musical provided by Richard Price Television Associates were bought by the audience to boost Band funds.
Although the rain dampened the music sheets it certainly did not dampen the enthusiasm of the audience and they joined in with the Band singing Hello Dolly followed by the Dam Busters and then Pomp & Circumstance Military March. The Grand raffle was drawn before the heavens opened and Ramsbury Brewery who sponsored the event were pleased that over £1,100 was raised despite the vagaries of the English weather.
Chairman Phil Ockwell said ' We are amazed at the number of people who sat through the rain to support us. It was the first wet concert on the Green in the 4 years we have been running them and it was an accolade both to the supporters, the Conductor and the players themselves that we were able to continue as long as we did. Our grateful thanks go to them and to our sponsors - Ramsbury Brewery , Arena Seating, Poulton Grange B&B, Majestic Wines, Ramada Jarvis, RPTA, The Blue Boar and Friends of Aldbourne Band.'
Aldbourne Band is currently looking for additional players so visit the Band website to find out more www.aldbourne-band.co.uk or come along to the next concerts to meet the band. See the engagement schedule for more details.
The End of an Era - Jesse Jones Retires
Brass Banding, 1928-2008.
Aldbourne Band Player, 1957-1984
Aldbourne Band President, 1990-2008
After 80 years in Brass Banding, and 51 years in association with Aldbourne Band, as player, Band Sergeant, Secretary and finally President, Jesse, now 85 years old, has now decided to retire as President of the band. In recognition of Jesse's service to the band a presentation is to be made at the "Stars and Stripes" Concert in the Church, Aldbourne on Saturday October 4th starting at 7pm.
Jesse actually started playing as a lad, on the bass drum when he was 5 years old, and the side drum at the age of 7, with the junior band at the Swindon Citadel Salvation Army. He also, unbeknown to many, played the Baritone, but reverted back to playing the side drum and bass drum when he reached his teens. He spent 3 years with the Great Western Railways Band as the band's percussionist, but went back into the Salvation Army in 1942, until he left in 1957.
Jesse started his long career with the Aldbourne band way back in 1957 when he was initially asked to guest with the band at a concert in Gloucester's main gardens, as part of a series of summer season concerts given by some of the country's top bands. He was again invited back over the next 18 months to help the band out, playing under 3 different conductors, Wilf Jerram, Joe Alder and Bob Barnes, names that will be known probably only by the older members of our banding community.
Jesse at this time worked in the British Railways Workshops in Swindon, as did a few other Aldbourne band members, and after much persuasion, especially from Jim Palmer, (1st Baritone), decided to join the band proper in December 1959, as the band's percussionist, a post that hitherto had only been taken up by village lads for carnivals and other such like parades.
Talking to Jesse, he tells me that he can recall the moment quite vividly. "On turning up for my first band practice, I looked at the equipment and felt my heart sink, a marching bass drum that needed 3 men to lift, a side drum that should have gone to the knackers' yard years earlier and a set of cymbals, well, I can't describe what sound they produced!" However, within a few months, it was decided that Jesse could look into purchasing some new equipment, and with the financial help of a local entrepreneur, Reuben Hunt, Jesse and the band's deputy bandmaster, Don Keene, travelled over to Potters in Aldershot and spent 100 pounds, and bought a new side drum, bass drum, a pair of cymbals and drum sticks that would do the job properly.
Jesse was also well known for his organisational skills at work and his command of discipline as a football referee, so it wasn't long before he was elected, (in 1960), as the bands first band sergeant. "I can assure you," he told me, "this was the toughest job that I had encountered for many a long time. The band's uniform, those that actually had one, was a bit makeshift to say the least, but my most vivid memory of that time, was that each bandsman seemed to wear any old socks, sometimes not even matching, which looked really awful on stage". However Jesse soon sorted these problems out with due efficiency, and the band started to look the part and a new pride ensued within the ranks.
Jesse soon had other issues to resolve, not within the band, but within the banding movement per say. He could not understand why, at contests, percussion was only allowed to play in the March section and not the main contest selection, or that percussion was just not included at all. Jesse went to work on the bands closest contest venue, and contacted the Reading Guild, who he lobbied successfully, as in 1964 percussion was allowed to play for the very first time. This wasn't the end for Jesse however, as his own band was still reluctant to use percussion right up until the last moment. Jesse explains," I was sat with my wife Ruth in the balcony at the old Reading Town Hall listening to the first 3 bands. We were drawn 7 out of 16 bands and it wasn't until the end of the third band had played that Bob Barnes leaned over and tapped me on the shoulder and said that I could play. We went on to win the contest which I was obviously delighted about, not only the win, but it was the first contest to have percussion, and the first time that my son Ashley and I played in a contest together. At the bottom of the adjudicator's remarks it read, "Good percussion". What of course, we didn't know at the time, was that Jesse had 2 great uncles that ran the Reading Guild, and no doubt he used them to great advantage!
Jesse held the post of Band Sergeant from 1960 until 1972, when he was asked if he would take on the post of Band Secretary. Jesse agreed and was duly elected at the bands AGM that year, 1972.
Jesse had many proud and happy memories during his time as the band's secretary, a position that was to last for 12 years, to look back on and a few regrets as well. Jesse to
ld me, "The proudest year was back in 1981 when the band were crowned West of England Championship section champions, under Musical Director Don Keene, beating Sun Life and Cambor
ne into 2nd and 3rd places respectively. What of course, was also extraordinary, was that we were drawn in between the pair of them". As a consequence of that win, the band were
invited not only to the National finals at The Royal Albert Hall, but also invited to take part in BBC 2's television contest "Best of Brass", held at the Assembly Rooms Derby, a
nd a Radio 3 "Bandstand" broadcast, a situation a small village band like ours just didn't expect to find ourselves in. "Probably the proudest moment of my banding career was maki
ng the draw in the dungeons of the Royal Albert Hall, stood there amongst the top bands in the country. Unfortunately I drew number 2, but we did have the consolation of playing
in between Dyke and Grimethorpe. Oh well, you can't have everything you want in life. We had an excellent day playing to an almost packed house, well with Dyke and Grimethorpe j
ust behind you would expect to wouldn't you?"
During Jesse's time as Secretary, he was very aware of his responsibilities for raising the much needed money that it takes to run a brass band. Examples of which include formalising a series of summer concerts by the pond in Aldbourne which had previously been performed on an ad-hoc process. He set up an annual concert in the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, in aid of the St. John Ambulance Brigade which ran from the late 70's and through the 80's, and his proud boast at the time, was to be the first band to sell out the Theatre, even something Black Dyke were unable to achieve. It was during one of the many Wyvern Theatre concerts, that Jesse received his 50 years long service award from Trevor Austin of Rosehill Instruments, President of the Reading Guild and a lifelong friend of Jesse's. He also helped with with the established of a themed concert in the village church, which still takes place in October each year.
Jesse retired from playing in 1984, wanting to spend more time with his wife Ruth, who for many years had supported Jesse in his long and illustrious playing career. However, this was not the end for Jesse, as in 1990, the outgoing Band President had strongly recommended to the band that they should invite Jesse to take on the role as President of Aldbourne Band, an honour that he relished for 18 years. Not just a figure head for Jesse, he worked tirelessly in promoting the band and raising unqualified amounts of money by collecting at concerts, Christmas carolling and badgering people to come out and listen to the band on cold rainy nights to help keep the band in financial comfort.
Jesse remembers too, the many professional conductors associated with the band, and a good many tales that he says will remain where they should, in the band room.
He did however have a great regard for some of them, "I have met many top rated conductors and band trainers in my many years at Aldbourne, but a few will stay in my memory for various reasons. Cliff Edmonds was a gentleman and came and took the band on in the early 70's. Don Keene had just taken over at the helm, and due to certain frailties within the band, we decided to give Don all the support he required and Cliff fitted the bill perfectly. Frank Renton was one of Don's friends back in the Royal Horse Guards, (Blues and Royals) during their national service days, and we had a long and mostly happy association. I had a bit of a soft spot for Frank as he was a bit like me, he told it as it was. Nigel Seaman did an unbelievable amount of good work with the band as did David Williams, Melvin White and Steve Sykes. It was a pleasure to watch them all work with the band.
Jesse would finally like to mention a two gentleman that have been great servants to the band, not only as players, but excellent bandsmen. "Don Keene, who was Resident Conductor for many of the bands successful years during the 70's and 80's and John Harman, who for many years was the band's treasurer. When Don took over as Conductor in 1973, the band were going through a bit of a rough time and he, with the support of John and Jesse, worked tirelessly with 3 groups of youngsters to ensure the survival of the band well into current times. Although the band had a committee to run and administer its affairs, I will admit that it was the three of us that ran the band for many years from the engine test shed in the British Rail Workshops in Swindon."
Jesse would like to thank everyone that he has come into contact with in his many years, far too many too mention in this article.
June 2008
Blackpool result a mixed bag
After two disappointing contest results at Yeovil and the West of England Championships, the band were looking forward to steady the ship with a solid performance at the Spring Festival Contest.
The band waited eagerly for the draw which took place around 10am. A 17th draw was not the drinking draw that everybody wanted!. After time spent listening to other bands, looking round the trade stands and more practice, the band finally took to the stage.
This year the Senior Cup challenged the bands to a work by Martin Ellerby called "Elgar Variations". The piece had all the requisite ingredients required to test each band - lots of technical obstacles that although demanding could be overcome with thought and skill and plenty of easy listening music to explore and interpret in the score.
The band on the whole played well and we were reasonably happy with our performance compared to the last two contests. Even 4barsrest liked the performance which they said had a 'real sense of control'. There was the odd blip but we were confident of a mid table placing.
As the results came through later, we were a little disappointed with some of the remarks (who isn't?!), and thought we could have been placed a little higher. The usual top and bottom 4 had been chosen and then the lottery of the mid table placing had left us with 13th place, enough to secure our position in the Senior Cup next year and guarantee the band two more trips to Blackpool at least.
Back from Blackpool there was no rest for the wicked, and the Pond Concert season beckoned.
Thanks
The band would like to thank Carl and Clare Smith for their long and loyal service, 20 and 18 years respectively. Carl and Clare have now taken the opportunity to play with Polysteel and we would like to wish them all the best for the future. Sharp eyes amongst you may have noticed them both helping at our recent June Pond Concert!!...
May 2008
Devizes and Marlborough concert success
The band have been delighted with the success of our two recent concerts, joining with
the Kentwood Show Choir at the Corn Exchange in Devizes and with the Caerphilly Male Voice
Choir at Marlborough College. Both concerts were well attended and provided excellent en
tertainment for the enthusiastic audiences. The band would like to thank both choirs for
two thoroughly enjoyable evenings.
Contest News
After two disappointing contest results at Yeovil and the West of England Championships
, the band are looking forward to the exciting Spring Festival Contest held in Blackpool.
The Spring Brass Band Festival at Blackpool is a contest attended by only the best band
s in the country and is the route to qualify for the prestigious British Open contest. The
contest, held in the Blackpool Winter Gardens, is spilt into 3 sections. Following our su
ccess last year, we remain in the middle section - The Senior Cup.
This year the Senior Cup challenges the bands to a work by Martin Ellerby called "Elgar
Variations". The piece has all the requisite ingredients required to test each band - lo
ts of technical obstacles that although demanding can be overcome with thought and skill,
and plenty of easy listening music to explore and interpret in the score.
The band are aiming for a top four placing, which will gain us promotion to the section
above - The Grand Shield.
March 2008
Spring News
The Band are looking forward to two exciting Concerts in the next five weeks, the first
at the Corn Exchange in Devizes on Saturday 29th March. This concert is the Devizes Lions
Club Spring Serenade, and the Band are joining with the Kentwood Show Choir for the eveni
ng. Tickets are available from Devizes Books and the Devizes Visitor Centre or please cont
act David Dolman on 07785 236592
On the 12th April, the Band's own Spring Concert takes place. With Special Guests the C
aerphilly Male Voice Choir (kindly sponsored by Clarke and Rodway of Marlborough), the con
cert is moving from Aldbourne to the Memorial Hall in Marlborough College this year. Ticke
ts are ten pounds on the door, nine pounds in advance and are available from March 17th fr
om the White Horse Book Shop in Marlborough and the Aldbourne Post Office.
Tickets can also be reserved from Alan Watson 01672 540580, or Sue Jones (Swindon area)
01793 879569
Return Coach Transport may be available at 6:45pm, from Aldbourne Square or Swindon.
Minimum 30 seats need to be booked for this to run (contact Alan Watson)
January 2008
Happy new year from Aldbourne Band
From all members of the band, we hope you had a very happy Christmas and good new year celebration.
The end of 2007 brought with it success for Aldbourne Band, with a great win at Leicester contest on November
18th (picture below). The band played 'Dances and Alleluias' and came away with top honours. In addition, the bands Solo Baritone (Graham Palmer) walked
away with the Soloist prize too!.
The band are looking forward to a busy 2008, with Immanuel Concert on the horizon at the end of January, Yeovil Contest the weekend after with
Melvin White leading the band, then March comes all too quickly with the Area Contest down in Torquay to get the juices going!
Aldbourne Band - Archived News
Archived articles go back to 2001!
November 2007
Aldbourne Band Youngsters - made good
Aldbourne Band youngsters (well not so young now!) have spread far and wide. Further Education commitments mean that Dean Jones (pictured) and Matthew Gilbert have left the local area.
Dean is currently at Huddersfield University studying for a music degree, and gaining a wealth of playing experience with different groups. Significantly, he has just passed his audition with Rothwell Band (Leeds) for 2nd Trombone.
They are ranked in the world top ten and involved at all the major contests.
Nipper (Matt Gilbert) has completed BSc. and Masters degrees and is currently working on his Doctorate in Manchester (he is working in the field of Nuclear Physics!). Playing-wise, Matt has just signed for the world famous Fairey Band - based in Stockport.
August 2007
Aldbourne Band playing at St James's Park, London
Come with the band to St James Park, London on Saturday 4th August.
Coach tickets from Swindon (10.15) and Aldbourne (10.45) are available, Leaving London (@18.45)
You can enjoy a day in the park with the band playing, or get some retail therapy- or Both!!
Email the Secretary, contact Alan Watson or the Chairman for more details.
Band Opens Doors For All (update)
On every Friday between 27th July and 31st August, the Band opened their doors for anybody who wanted to experience playing with a Championship section band.
We were joined by 9 teenagers who came along and thoroughly enjoyed themselves. It was a great experience for them and shows that the days of brass are not numbered!
There are vacancies currently within the band, please check the vacancies page for more information.
August Concert on the green a great success!
After a hard day 'at the office' on Sat 4th Aug in St James' Park, which saw the band perform two different full programmes, the Band returned to the Village on Sun 5th for
what has become an extremely well attended event on the Green.
The weather played an important role, with the village seeing temperatures close to 30 degrees and an almost cloudless sky.
June 2007
Two members of the band celebrate Marriage
On 5th May, Richard Hughes (cornet) and Claudia Tomkins (flugel) celebrated their Marriage in Wantage, Oxon. The Woodman Inn at Fernham nr Faringdon was the location for the reception, where the weather remained glorious despite a dismal forecast.
More than a few real ales, wines, lagers and Champagne were consumed and we're sure quite a few hangovers were experienced the next day!.
Aldbourne Band placed 6th at the Spring Festival, Blackpool
The band recently played at the Spring Festival, Blackpool, competing in the Senior Cup. After a good performance, the band were very pleased to
improve on their 7th placing on last year, coming 6th in the results.
Still, not quite high enough for promotion to the Grand Shield which required 4th or higher.
4barsrest seemed to like the performance, posting the following in their retrospective article on www.4barsrest.com;
Sixth placed Aldbourne conducted by David Williams were another ensemble that delivered an impressive account that just failed to gain one of the four qualification places on offer. Their performance was enhanced greatly by some
wonderful playing from principal cornet Kevin Robbins who was the pick of the day of the ‘top men' on the demanding lip sapping cornet solo late in the piece.
Full results were;
| Pos | Band | Conductor | Dr | Pts |
| 1 | Wingates | A. Berryman | 6 | - |
|
2 | Thoresby Colliery | I. McElligot | 11 | - |
|
3 | Kibworth | J. Berryman | 8 | - |
|
4 | Freckleton | P. Dalton | 16 | - |
|
5 | East Yorkshire Motor Services | J. Davies | 7 | - |
|
6 | Albourne | D. Williams | 4 | - |
|
7 | Innovate Skelmathorpe | J. Roberts | 1 | - |
|
8 | Cwmaman Institute Silver (Tower Colliery) | N. Seaman | 15 | - |
|
9 | Pemberton Old Wigan JJB | A. Hobbins | 9 | - |
|
10 | Unison Kinneil | C. McKenzie | 17 | - |
|
11 | Jaguar (Coventry) | D. Lea | 2 | - |
|
12 | Dalmellington | A. Hutchinson | 14 | - |
|
13 | Bournemouth Concert Brass | D. Hayward | 18 | - |
|
14 | Kingdom Brass | C. Anderson | 13 | - |
|
15 | Lindley | N. Jowett | 5 | - |
|
16 | Besses o' th' Barn | J. Hinckley | 10 | - |
|
17 | Ratby Co-operative | S. Sykes | 12 | - |
|
18 | Knottingley Silver | R. Morgan | 3 | - |
|
w | Stanes | - |
| - |
| - | - | |
|
|
|
April 2007
Aldbourne Band renew links with Swindon based Ten-In-A-Bar
On Saturday 31st March, the Aldbourne Band returns to Christchurch in Old Town, Swindon to renew our links with Ten-In-A-Bar. Both organisations enjoyed several concerts over the last decade, mainly performing
in Immanuel Church, Upham Road.
For those of you who haven’t heard ‘Ten in a Bar’, they are a group of singers who formed up
some 15 years ago. Under the direction of Jill Hodge they have gained a reputation for extremely
high quality harmony singing as well as moments of “zany humour”. Their repertoire stretches
from Bach through to modern ‘pop’.
Aldbourne secure 5th position at West of England Championships
Aldbourne Band is delighted to have been placed 5th at the recent West of England Championships in Torquay. This confirms the band’s status as the 5th best Brass Band, from 80 Bands, in the entire West Country.
The Band competed alongside the very best bands from the West at the Riviera Centre on Sunday 11th March. All the Bands competing had to play the same composition “Isiah 40”, by Robert Redhead, which proved a tough challenge, although an extremely musical piece that was enjoyed by the Band throughout the rehearsals.
With only 2 days to go, news of Melvin White's stay in hospital for observation caused the band to make a late substitution, and so Chris King kindly stepped up to the plate to take the Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Our thoughts are with Melvin and hope he makes a speedy recovery.
The full results are below;
| Pos |
Band |
Conductor |
Dr |
Pts |
| 1 | PolySteel |
P. Harper |
3 |
196 |
| 2 | Mount Charles |
A. Duncan |
6 |
195 |
| 3 | SWT Woodfalls |
Dr. N. Childs |
9 |
194 |
| 4 |
Camborne |
F. Renton |
8 |
193 |
| 5 |
Aldbourne |
C. King |
4 |
192 |
| 6 |
Bournemouth Concert Brass |
N. Taken |
5 |
191 |
| 7 |
Yeovil Town |
D. Barringer |
7 |
190 |
| 8 |
St. Austell Town |
D. Loukes |
2 |
189 |
| 9 |
Lydbrook |
D. Williams |
1 |
188 |
| 10 |
Sherborne Town |
P. Cosh |
10 |
187 |
| 11 |
Poole Borough |
P. Randell |
11 |
186 |
|
|
|
Aldbourne Band - CD Release
Aldbourne Band is very pleased to announce the release of its latest recording. Directed by Steve Sykes and recorded by Charlie Flemming, the CD is simply entitled “Aldbourne”. The disc contains a variety of popular concert music including such items as “Shine as the Light”, “Gaelforce” and “Trumpet Blues & Cantabile”.
The disc also includes some extremely reflective music in Gareth Wood’s beautiful “Japanese Slumber Song” and John Rutter’s “The Lord Bless You and Keep You”.
The band showcases some fine soloists in the form of Kevin Robbins (cornet) with Phillip Harper’s demanding arrangement of “Hungarian Melodies”, David Johnson (Euphonium) with “Home on the Range”, Claudia Tomkins (Flugel Horn), “You Needed Me” and Phil Trudgeon (Xylophone), “Helter Skelter”.
The disc now on sale and available at all concerts
If you wish to order this CD online, please complete this online form.
Rob Williams
Aldbourne Band Publicity Officer
01672 540506
07736 691902
publicity@aldbourne-band.co.uk
January 2007
Doug Yeo concert postponed
The band is disappointed at having to postpone the much anticipated Doug Yeo concert,scheduled for Tues 23rd January at Marlborough College, due to circumstances beyond the band and Doug's control.
However, we will be keeping close ties with Doug on his travels and will re-arrange the concert for a future date.
Aldbourne Band - CD Release
Aldbourne Band is very pleased to announce the release of its latest recording. Directed by Steve Sykes and recorded by Charlie Flemming, the CD is simply entitled “Aldbourne”. The disc contains a variety of popular concert music including such items as “Shine as the Light”, “Gaelforce” and “Trumpet Blues & Cantabile”.
The disc also includes some extremely reflective music in Gareth Wood’s beautiful “Japanese Slumber Song” and John Rutter’s “The Lord Bless You and Keep You”.
The band showcases some fine soloists in the form of Kevin Robbins (cornet) with Phillip Harper’s demanding arrangement of “Hungarian Melodies”, David Johnson (Euphonium) with “Home on the Range”, Claudia Tomkins (Flugel Horn), “You Needed Me” and Phil Trudgeon (Xylophone), “Helter Skelter”.
Last but certainly not least, the disc offers the opportunity to hear the band’s 15 year old Principal Trombonist, Stephen Sykes, a rising star of the instrument and recent brass finalist in the BBC Young Musician Of The Year Competition. Stephen gives a very stylish rendition of “Why Did I Choose You”.
The disc is scheduled for release in time for the band’s concert with Evelyn Glennie OBE at The Colston Hall, Bristol on Friday 17th November. The concert with Evelyn will feature an exhilarating selection of music covering the entire percussion range. The premiere for Percussion and Brass of Michael Daugherty’s “UFO” is the centre-piece of the concert, and not to be missed.
If you wish to pre-order this CD, please complete this online form.
September 2006
Aldbourne Band mourns loss of Rick Bendle
Aldbourne Band is very sad to announce the death of Rick Bendle.
Rick had been a stalwart of the Band since 1961 having played a number of seats from Cornet, G-Trombone, Bass Trombone, Eb Bass and Bb Bass and only stopped playing in 2002 due to ill health.
Rick was certainly one of the most remarkable characters in Banding, known by bands across the West of England and further a-field. Rick was legendary for his comic appearances on the stage at the Pontins contest at Brean Sands, and often did a "turn" within a concert performance with Aldbourne to the delight of audiences and his regular following.
In 2001 Rick achieved his lifetime ambition which was to be a singer/comedian and toured venues all over Wiltshire, and he had quite a following. During his time with the Band, Rick frequently brought tears to people's eyes with his never-ending humor, songs, jokes and his razor-sharp wit.
Working conscientiously with Aldbourne Band he also took up roles of Secretary and Chairman serving many years on committee. In true Rick Bendle style he created the Rick Bendle Memorial Trophy - and also took great pleasure in presenting this in 2005. He said that he had always wanted to see it presented in his lifetime.
Rick was also one of the most-loved care assistants for Wiltshire Social Services, working with the elderly and disabled in a number of residential homes.
He will be greatly missed by many, many people.
April 2006
Aldbourne Band placed 5th in West of England Championships
Aldbourne Band is delighted to announce being awarded 5th place the Championship Section of the annual West of England Regional Championships at the Riviera Centre, Torquay, on the 19th of March. The musical piece set as a test was “Journey to the Centre of the Earth”, composed by Peter Graham based on the books by Jules Vernes. Currently there are nearly than 100 Bands from as far a-field as Devon and Cornwall and 5th is an excellent result.
The musical piece was exciting and certainly challenged the sections of the Band from the Cornets, Trombones and Tubas, through to the detailed and difficult percussion parts. Of particular note was 15 years old Stephen Sykes who played the Trombone solo with panache and was one of the very best on the day.
Chairman, James Sheppard said...' This was great result which reflects the continued improvement of the Band, and shows that we can really compete with the very best.'. Much of the credit goes to Musical Director, Steve Sykes, who brought so much detail and excitement out of the musical performance.
Despite a busy contest schedule, nationally, Aldbourne Band frequently performs for local concerts and functions. The next concert is with the Bath Silver Ring Choir in the Devizes Corn Exchange on Saturday April 8th - tickets are available from the Devizes Books, Devizes Visitors Centre and Rangebourne Pet Care also in Devizes.
The Band is also performing with Evelyn Glennie, OBE, at the Colston Hall, Bristol, on Friday 17th November. This is going to be a fantastic concert with the world’s foremost percussion performance artist. Information and tickets are available from Alan Watson 01672 540580.
Less formal concerts are held monthly throughout the summer adjacent to the pond in the centre of Aldbourne village. The “Pond Concerts” held at 7pm on the first Sunday of the four summer months, are extremely popular, relaxed, entertaining – and free!
Aldbourne Band is pleased to announce 2 new players that have joined the ranks.
Firstly we would like to announce the appointment of Kevin Robbins as Principal Cornet, Kevin was formerly Principal Cornet of the Sun Life Band, and has since played Principal for Flowers. Kevin brings a wealth of top-class banding experience with him and will help shape and develop the cornet section. A huge asset to the Band, Kevin’s first performances were at the Yeovil and West of England contests and has confirmed his intention to continue playing at Aldbourne.
Janine Aston has joined from Besses O’ The Barn Band having relocated from Preston to Reading last year. Jannine joined the Band alongside her husband Dave, and has been doing an excellent job on front row cornet.
The Band is now working hard, with Steve Sykes, on Harmony Music for the Senior Cup at Blackpool.
February 2006
BBC Young Musician of The Year Brass Finalist Signs For Aldbourne
Aldbourne Band is delighted to have been able to sign 14 year old trombonist Stephen Sykes as their principal trombone. The name is no co-incidence as Stephen is the eldest son of Steve and Joanne Sykes, and one of a very talented family.
Stephen, an up and coming brass star has recently progressed through to the BBC Young Musician brass final. Stephen was a member for 2004 as principal trombone of the National Childrens Orchestra and is already in his second year as a member of the National Youth Orchestra of GB. Stephen has performed regularly as a soloist at both concerts and festivals and is a past winner of the Concerto section of the prestigious Bath International Music Festival, and also was featured as soloist at the Trinity College of Music showcase at the Greenwich Theatre.
In the autumn of 2005 Stephen was invited to become a member of the Royal Academy of Music in London at the request of Ian Bousfield, Principal Trombone with the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra and Professor of Trombone at the RAM where he will receive guidance from the trombone department and in particular Ian Bousfield when he visits from Vienna.
Stephen has been playing at Aldbourne since late last year, and made his debut as a soloist with the Band at their concert last weekend playing as a featured soloist. Stephen's first contest was the recent Yeovil Entertainment Contest where Stephen undoubtedly helped Aldbourne to 7th placing from the 15 Bands, taking many scalps in a line-up of higher ranked bands. This was a good achievement for the band in their first year back in the Championship Section and something to build on as the Band prepares for the Regionals with Journey to the Centre of the Earth and Harmony Music in the Senior Cup in May.
In the Band's next concert Stephen will be one of the featured soloists at St Michael's Church, Aldbourne on Sunday 19th Feb. Further details of this concert and all news items are available from the Band Web-site: www.aldbourne-band.co.uk
January 2006
Relocation Relocation Relocation!.
Aldbourne Band is delighted to welcome some new players at the start of 2006 and has benefited greatly from long-distance relocation!
Dave Aston, has joined from Besses O' The Barn. Dave, who relocated with his wife Jannine from Preston to Reading last year, has recently retired from Lancashire Constabulary and will be looking after their two little girls, Dannielle who is 4 and Niamh who is only 15 months old. Between them Dave and Jannine clocked up 30 years with Besses and, during that period, they were stalwarts of the band.
Paul Bilkey has also returned to us on Soprano. Paul originated in Cornwall, playing for Camborne, then he played for Aldbourne through the late 80's to mid 90's before moving further a-field with work He is currently living in Lincolnshire and commuting to Oxfordshire for work, but is relocating into the West shortly in the New Year. It has been quite a re-union, returning to the Band after 10 years, although there are many familiar faces and he has remained in frequent contact with the Band during his absence.
Further to this the Aldbourne Band also welcomes Phil Trudgeon on Percussion. Phil plays for the Royal Marines in Portsmouth under the directorship of Chris Davis. Phil started his Banding life with Camborne and recalls many fond memories of playing with them at contests including the Albert Hall finals. However with the re-location to Portsmouth the commute just proved too much. Having already made quite an impact on rehearsals the band has been impressed at his ability to 'tickle the ivory' on tuned percussion.
Both players will play their first contests next year at the Yeovil Entertainment Contest in February when under the direction of Steve Sykes the Band returns to the Championship Section. Then the Band will be getting to grips with the wonderfully exciting “Journey to the Centre of the Earth”, and “Harmony Music” for the Regionals and Blackpool.
October 2005
Aldbourne Christmas Concert - 2005
This is now back on for Sunday 11th December, 7pm in St Michael's Church, Aldbourne.
Richard Hughes - Secretary
Aldbourne Band placed 4th in National Finals
Aldbourne Band was delighted with placing 4th in the 1st Section National Finals at Harrogate on 25th September.
A committed performance of Pagentry was presented, although the Band still felt that maybe the best performance was left in the rehearsal room. Melvin White crafted a performance that caught the two adjudicator’s ears (Frank Renton and Alan Morrison) and a big thank you to Melvin for his hard work. The piece though, as evidenced by all bands performances provided a tough challenge technically and musically.
Chris Lewis, Principal Cornet, was picked by 4BarsRest (popular Brass Band web-site) as Aldbourne’s player of the day.
Two Bands played from each of the Regions (Winners and Runner-up), and with the exception of Staines (who played very well by all accounts) from the London and Southern Counties Region, the Band were pleased to beat each of the other Regional Champions.
After a long weekend away in Yorkshire, and much celebration, the Band returned on Monday 26th reflecting, perhaps more subdued, on their tremendous success.
Full Results:
| Pos
| Band
| Conductor
| Draw
| Points
|
| 1.
| Yorkshire Imperial Urquhart Travel
| Chris Houlding
| 3
| 190
|
| 2.
| Staines Brass
| Major Ian McElligott
| 14
| 188
|
| 3.
| Ashton under Lyne
| Philip Chalk
| 8
| 186
|
| 4.
| Aldbourne
| Melvin White
| 13
| 185
|
| 5.
| Wrexham Brass (NEWI)
| Wayne Ruston
| 17
| 184
|
| 6.
| Hatfield Main
| Graham O'Connor
| 10
| 183
|
| 7.
| Kirkintilloch Kelvin
| Alastair Orr
| 11
| 182
|
| 8.
| Johnstone Silver
| Gavin Lindsay
| 12
| 181
|
| 9.
| Freckleton
| Paul Dalton
| 15
| 180
|
| 10.
| Parc & Dare
| Craig Roberts
| 4
| 179
|
| 11.
| Easington Colliery
| David Hirst
| 5
| 178
|
| 12.
| Clacton On Sea
| Melvin White
| 6
| 177
|
| 13.
| Raunds Temperance
| John Fletcher
| 7
| 176
|
| 14.
| Langbaurgh Brass
| Tim Oldroyd
| 9
| 175
|
| 15.
| Wantage Silver 'A'
| Philip Harper
| 2
| 174
|
| 16.
| Cinderford
| Dave Lea
| 1
| 173
|
| 17.
| Bedworth
| Colin Randle
| 16
| 172
|
Aldbourne Band announce new MD
Aldbourne Band is delighted to announce the appointment of Steve Sykes as its new Musical Director, from October 2005.
The Band started working with Steve for Blackpool, and this collaboration was rewarded with 3rd place in the Senior Trophy. Steve has also worked with the Band on a number of concert performances in their busy schedule and the Band has thoroughly enjoyed the rehearsals and performances.
Steve Sykes, in accepting the position, said “I am very pleased to accept the invitation to be the Musical Director of the Aldbourne Band. Having worked with the Band on a number of occasions, including a super performance at the Senior Trophy, I know that the Band are focused and ambitious enough to really progress as a contest and concert ensemble. The Band has in its ranks a number of players who have experienced banding at the very highest level and the will to succeed is quite evident by the excellent rehearsals we enjoy together. Now that the Band has returned to Championship Section status I’m excited at the prospect of making our presence felt in the elite section.”
James Sheppard, Aldbourne Band Chairman added “Aldbourne Band is very excited to be working with a musical director the calibre of Steve Sykes. With his great expertise and enthusiasm and our hard work and commitment we are looking forward to a very successful future, building on our excellent contest result at Blackpool. Making the most of Steve’s experience at the highest level the Band is also anticipating an exciting and varied concert program. We are very much looking forward to what we believe will be a winning partnership.”
The Band would also like to personally thank Melvin White who has directed the Band for the last year and a half at major contests, including securing West of England 1st Section Champions, Leicestershire 1st Section champions and Wessex Championship Section Champions. Melvin’s final honours will be to direct the Band at the lower section Nationals in Harrogate on ‘Pagentry’.
Steve Sykes’ first major contests will be 2006 Yeovil Entertainment Contest and the West of England Championships where the Band returns to the Championship Section after a 3-year absence.
September 2005
FANCY A SLICE OF WILTSHIRE LIFE???
If anyone has fancied a slice of "Wiltshire Life" then please do buy the October edition, available 1st September from newsagents and from the Mark Allen Group - www.markallengroup.com
Aldbourne Band has secured a 3-page profile in the edition along with some great photos from their recent 'Party on the Green' concert. The article touches on the lives and committment of the players along with some of the unique tradtions of Aldbourne Band, including playing at 4AM on Christmas morning, and also the famous Pond Concerts that have been running for more than 100 years.
It makes great reading and gives some great PR for the Brass Band World.
Party on the Green
Aldbourne Band changed the format of its August Pond Concert and the change was a huge success. The Pond Concerts have been running informally from around the turn of the 20th century, and were formalised in the 1960s to 4 concerts a year, each played adjacent to Aldbourne Pond on the first Sunday of the 4 summer months. With over a century of tradition behind them the decision to move the August concert - to be played on the lovely village, green was not taken lightly.
The Concert provided an opportunity for our audiences to bring deckchairs and picnic baskets and make the most of the fine summer weather for a more relaxed evening of entertainment. Also staged cunningly close to the Blue Boar public house one or two of the audience were spotted breaking for refreshments during the evening. The concert was well attended with over 1,000 people in the audience.
A successful raffle was organised with the kind donations from local residents and we thank everyone who donated. First prize – from John Jarvis - weekend break for 2 in Jarvis hotel...Mrs Pat Manners from Swindon. Second Prize - One month membership for two at Stables Lesiure Club, Littlecote House, Hungerford.....Mrs King – Swindon. Third Prize - Sunday Lunch for 4 people at the Blue Boar, Aldbourne, courtesy of land lord and lady Margo and Paul, won by Mr McLeod. Fourth prize - set of DVD's from Richard Price..including Oaklahoma and Kiss me Kate...Mrs McCarthy, Purton. Fith Prize won by local resident was bottle of port and bottle wine.
Together with the collecting boxes that evening nearly £1,500 was raised for the Band funds. This will go a long way to paying for transportation and accommodation costs when the Band travels to Harrogate in September to compete, as West of England Champions, in the National Finals at the Harrogate International Conference Centre.
Overall an evening of excellent music was presented and thoroughly enjoyed by our audience and the event proved a great success. The Band is currently considering making the August concert a Proms concert, to be played on the village green each year.
July 2005
Party on the Green
On Sunday 7th August the ever popular Aldbourne Band Pond concert will take an exciting new format when we invite you to party on the green.
Starting at the slightly earlier time of 7pm the band will be playing its usual high standard programme of an hour and a half of brass
band music to suit all tastes.
Situated just behind the concert’s usual venue of the pond in the centre of Albourne Wilts, the village green is
an idyllic setting for a summer’s evening concert. We invite you to come along and bring a picnic (get there early for the best seats!) and bring a couple of bottles of plonk,
or visit the Blue Boar pub by the side of the green.
There will also be a raffle at the interval where you will have a chance to win some great prizes including of course a copy of the band’s CD. So come along and enjoy what will be a great evening’s free entertainment for all the family.
If the indifferent English summer weather takes a turn for the worst then don’t panic the concert will move to inside the lovely St Michael’s church which is just behind the village green.
For more info please contact Simon Snow on 07901531624
Aldbourne Band Website back online after house move...
I have just finished the arduous task of moving home. This involved many complications including
the move of my Broadband ADSL line. After several days of sleepness unpacking, I've finally remembered how
all my computer equipment was connected!
It's good to be back in the village I grew up in, and it has its advantages... like a few beers after a hard practice!
Anyway, the website is now back online and ready for business. Appologies for any inconvenience caused.
Richard Hughes
Secretary and website administrator
Aldbourne Band announces the departure of Nigel Seaman
The respected Nigel Seaman and the Aldbourne Band have decided to part company on friendly grounds.
After 2 years back at the helm following his serious heart bypass operation, Nigel and the Band have decided on a new direction and are looking for a new resident conductor.
Nigel told 4BarsRest.com that he is very sorry to leave the band, but respected the band's decision for a new change of direction. Over the past seven years he has made a number of friends, and was particularly touched by a number of band members coming to visit him in hospital when he was ill.
He told 4BarsRest.com "“I have made some great friends with the band over the years and will always remember with fondness the visits a number of them made from Wiltshire to visit me in hospital in Wales even though they were only allowed a few minutes to see me when they got there! That says a great deal about the people associated with the band, and I fully respect their decision and wish them the very best for their forthcoming appearance at the National Finals. I am sure they will do very well, and I will be supporting and cheering them on.”
The band has a busy summer schedule lined up, including our hugely successful Pond Concerts and the National Finals in September.
We are in negotiations with two conductors to take us through the summer and towards the National Finals.
Further news will be published soon.
Aldbourne Band Girls on hen weekend in Minehead....
Several members of the band recently went on a hen weekend for Kate Hannam's (2nd Horn) impending wedding. Article and pictures will be arriving soon!... watch this space.
May 2005
Aldbourne Band gains 3rd Place in the Senior Trophy
Aldbourne Band is delighted to announce success at the Senior Trophy at Blackpool.
The band competed in a field of 20 bands, one of only 2 bands that were graded 1st Section – the remainder were graded Championship Section. We played Connotations, by Edward Gregson, and were directed by Steve Sykes who put in a tremendous effort and shaped a great interpretation of the music. A terrific build-up to the competition, with many extra rehearsals was followed by a top-class performance on-stage.
This was rewarded with 3rd place, and an invitation to the 2006 Senior Cup competition.
Everyone was ecstatic and this rounded off a great weekend in Blackpool that included the Blackpool Pleasure Beach and Karaoke.
The results are listed below but the scalps taken by Aldbourne, over significantly higher ranked bands, is strong evidence of the Band’s current form and progression.
Results:
1. Alliance Brass, John Clark, 2
2. Tongwynlais Temperance, Gareth Pritchard, 14
3. Aldbourne, Steve Sykes, 6
4. Pemberton Old Wigan, Mark Peacock, 20
5. Kingdom Brass, Alan Duguid, 19
6. BHK (UK) Horden, Major Peter Parkes, 18
7. Camborne Town, Captain Pete Curtis, 17
8. Thoresby Colliery, Martin Heartfield, 7
9. Haydock, Lynda Nicholson, 13
10. Harrogate, David Lancaster, 3
11. Ratby Co-operative, Dr Roy Newsome, 8
12. Yeovil, Dave Hayward, 9
13. Mossley, Martyn Evans, 4
14. Welwyn Garden City, David Jones, 11
15. Riddings, John Davis, 16
16. Kidlington Concert, Catherine Underwood, 10
17. Soham Comrades, Chris King, 5
18. Wrexham Brass, Wayne Ruston, 15
19. Thomas Coaches Mid Rhondda, Alan Gibbs, 12
20. Longridge, Stephen Booth, 1
April 2005
Band play at St George's Day celebration in Salisbury
Aldbourne Band were privileged to be invited to take part in the St George's day celebrations at Salisbury Cathedral on Sunday 24th.
We entertained the tourists and congregation with various patriotic pieces, then took part in the actual service, finishing with Jerusalem and Pomp and Circumstance.
This year was the first such event and by all accounts it was well received. Plans are already underway for next year and the band has been invited to take part again.
Devizes concert well received
As guests of the Kentwood Choir the Band played in Concert on Sat 23rd April.
The concert was organised by the Lions Club and was very well supported including Conservative Party Chairman, Michael Anchram.
The choir and Band were both on top form, and numbers including Psalsa P’a Gozar and The Muppet Show were highly applauded.
Preparation for Blackpool
Following success at Torquay, the Band was back in rehearsal for the Senior Trophy at Blackpool.
The Bands fourth year in this competition is as important as ever to not only re-qualify for next year,
but to qualify, again, for the Senior Cup 2006 by coming in the top 4 places.
This year we have engaged Steve Sykes to take us on Edward Gregson’s Connotations.
This is a fabulous piece of music, testing for the entire Band, yet oozing in musical appeal for the players and audiences alike.
March 2005
Aldbourne Band win West of England 1st Section at Torquay.
Aldbourne Band is delighted to announce winning the First Section of the West of England Regional Championships at the Rivera Centre, Torquay, on the 13th March. The result on the musical piece “Comedy Overture”, by John Ireland, scored 190 points out of 200, beating the 2nd placed band significantly by two clear points, in a section of 12 Bands from Wiltshire through to Cornwall. “Comedy” was originally composed for Brass Band, but was successfully transcribed for Orchestra under the better know name of “A London Overture”.
Competition Judge, John Maines commented about Aldbourne’s performance “Overall, an excellent show; well directed and always musical”. Much of the credit for the success has to be given to Musical Director Melvin White who brought so much style and quality out in the Band’s performance. Thanks are also in order for Nigel Seaman and Steve Sykes who both took rehearsals leading up to the Contest.
Chairman James Sheppard said...' This is a well deserved victory which reflects the commitment and calibre of players within the Band. We are delighted to have been invited to represent the West of England at the National Championships in September, and are looking forward to many new and exciting challenges ahead.'
The result guarantees Aldbourne Band’s return to the Championship Section , the highest national grading, for 2006’s West of England Championships. In addition, Aldbourne represents the West of England at the National Finals in Harrogate in September 2005 to compete for the First Section National title against the winners and runners-up of the other 7 regions across the United Kingdom.
Despite a busy contest schedule, nationally, Aldbourne Band frequently performs for local concerts and functions. The next concert is with the Kentwood Choir in the Devizes Corn Exchange on April 23rd - tickets are available from;
Devizes Books, Sidmouth Street,
Devizes Visitors' Centre,
Jerry King - 01380-723830.
Tickets will also be available at the Corn Exchange Box Office on the night - If not already sold out
Informal concerts are held monthly throughout the summer adjacent to the pond in the centre of Aldbourne village. The “Pond Concerts” held at 7pm on the first Sunday of the four summer months, are extremely popular, relaxed, entertaining – and free!
For information about Aldbourne Band and their concerts, please contact Publicity Officer, Rob Williams on 01672 540506 or visit the Band’s Web-Site www.aldbourne-band.co.uk.
Adjudicator: John Maines
Test Piece: Comedy Overture – John Ireland
1. Aldbourne - Melvin White, 4, 190*
2. Cinderford - David Lea, 5, 188*
3. Sherborne Town - Paul Cosh, 3, 187
4. Lydbrook - Steve Sykes, 11, 186
5. Poole Borough - Phil Randell, 6, 185
6. Chalford - Steve Tubb, 10, 184
7. Solent Concert - Wesley Garner, 8, 183
8. Otterbourne Brass - Lt Col Chris Davies, 7, 182
9. Ocean Brass - Nick Grace, 9, 180
10. Swindon Pegasus Brass - John Winterflood, 1, 179
11. Helston Town - John Hitchens, 2, 178
Bendix Kingswood - David Shead, w
* Qualifiers for finals
December 2004
Band Members celebrate New Years with free for all Fancy Dress!
Photo's courtesy of Clare Smith.
A fair number of Band Members made the long trek to Carl and Clare's place in Swindon for a new years party. The theme was just "fancy dress", meaning that people
could come dressed in anything they wanted (clothes were mandatory however!).
Dean Jones (Second Trombone) was very tastefully dressed up as Andy Pipkin from Little Britain (see top right), whilst others inlcuded "Spock", One of the Blues Brothers, and "I'm a Lady!!" also from Little Britain - although
there was a remarkable resemblence to another member of the band!
Band play throughout the night on Christmas Eve.
Photo courtesy of Ron Morley.
I've played with the band on Christmas morning for the last 12 years and still enjoy it!.
Christmas eve usually starts off around 7pm at Browns farm, then once the final parts of the village have been covered, we attend a couple of private parties before gatecrashing the pubs.
Rick Bendle usually entertains the crowds with "Music Man", plus a couple of stand-up stints. Beer flows readily and everyone enjoys themselves.
Some of us never actually go home to sleep between Christmas Eve and Morning, prefering to busk and drink in private lockins until 03:45am before meeting up at the Memorial Hall just before 4am, where various supporters like to walk around with us, some bring their kids and dogs as well!
The path taken around the village on Christmas morning has always been the same. Starting halfway up Baydon Hill, we then do the length of Lottage Road, up Cook Close, down on to the Grasshills track heading towards the village green, the green itself, back lane and West street before stopping at Li Barnes's mums at 5am for much needed tea, coffee and biscuits!.
Then it's off up to the start of Westfield Chase, Top of Whitley Road, Castle Street, Marlborough Road, Butts, end of Garlings, Farm Lane and South Street before getting back to the square on or around 6-6:15am.
Then, weather permitting, the people who can make it up the church tower with their instruments and all manner of lighting gear make the long climb up. The village is so peaceful at the top, usually its slightly misty. Then we play a few carols pointing out into the darkness before finally making the trek home for some well earned sleep.
I'm not particularly religious but often feel that I've contributed something special every time I stand on that Church Tower.
Long may it continue.
Richard Hughes,
Band Secretary.
Aldbourne celebrate Wessex win
Melvin White leads Aldbourne to victory to round off the year in style.
The Aldbourne Band rounded off its contesting year in style on Saturday 4th December by winning the Championship Section of the Wessex Association Contest at Weymouth. This was the band's second victory in as many weeks following on from its success at the Leicester Contest.
On both occasions the band palyed John McCabe's "Cloudcatcher Fells" and feels that the hard work put in by MD Melvin White and the players has been well rewarded.
At the Wessex contest, the band also claimed the two new special awards, the "Conductors Trophy", awarded to Melvin for the most musical interpretation of the score and also the "James Winter" Trophy for the best percussion section. The latter award was received by Luke Barnes, Liz Masson and Rob Williams and fully reflected the effort put in on the difficult percussion line.
A busy Chrismas period follows for the band with three concerts in three days, then the challenge of getting to grips with "Comedy Overture" and "Connotations" for Blackpool next year.
Finally, the band would like to extend its gratitude to Lyndon Baglin, Ralph Rowden and Ian Barnes for their assistance in recent weeks.
Thanks to Carl Smith
November 2004
Competitions
The last few months we entered two competitions, one in Leicester, and one in Weymouth. For Leicester we could pick our ‘Own Choice’ of piece to play, and for Weymouth all Bands entering had to play ‘Cloudcatcher Fells’
As Cloudcatcher was already picked for Weymouth we decided to use this for Leicester also. The musical piece was composed by John McCabe and originally came from a poem by David Wright. The work is associated with various places, mostly mountainous, in the Lake District which have particular personal significance for the composer. The emphasis is on the Patterdale area, though other parts of the Lake District are also referred to. If you have ever walked this region of the country you may be familiar with Griesdale, Striding Edge and Haystacks.
As a stern test for most bands, Cloudcatcher took months of hard work – especially for the cornet section and the Timpani player (Liz). And we were fortunate to work with a number of talented Musical Directors including Nigel Seaman, David Hayward, Steve Sykes, Phillip Harper and Jason Glynn during this period. Final honors went to Melvin White, who directed the majority of the rehearsals and both stage performances.
The Leicester competition was run by the South Leicestershire Brass Band Association, and held at Wigston College. This was the first time that we had entered this contest, so we really did not know quite what to expect. The line-up of seven Band was mainly made up of local Bands with one Band from Yorkshire and ourselves.
The Venue was a Theatre central in the college, a long narrow hall with seating rising high up to the back. Unusually for a competition this was ‘Open Adjudication’ – this means that the Adjudicator sits in full view of the Band and is able to see exactly who each Band is during the performance (it is usual for adjudicators to be placed in enclosed boxes to prevent them seeing the Band and being swayed by any particular pre-conceptions for knowledge of the Bands playing). So just as he see us, we also see him – as it was noted that he started writing his remarks after the first couple of notes – and sometimes this is not always a good sign!
The performance moved along fairly well, just a few clips and minor errors, and the applause from audience (and adjudicator alike) rewarded an overall solid performance. As we returned to the bar for a few after performance refreshments rumours were already circulating of our ‘winning’ performance.
As the prizes were awarded the majority of the Band were sat in the theatre, and the top 3 prizes were announced in reverse order, so by the time that 3rd and 2nd had been announced the butterflies really start – as it now all or nothing. However 1st place was justifiably awarded to us, but the best surprise was Jim Bell winning Best Instrumentalist of the competition – reward for months of hard work from Jim who had only recently returned to Soprano Cornet upon joining Aldbourne Band in the summer.
October 2004
A Russian Extravaganza
We set an ambitious Theme for this year’s Themed Concert. ‘A Russian Extravaganza’ was a Theme picked by Nigel Seaman earlier in the year, and even when he became too ill to conduct the music we decided to continue with this plan. However we soon realised the challenge that we had taken – many black notes being noticed on the music across the Band. This all resulted in a tremendous amount of practice and rehearsal effort required by all.
The concert was directed by David Hayward, who we have worked with on a few occasions. David brought his great enthusiasm and drive to the music and helped us put a top-class performance on.
Tchaikovsky, Rimsky Korsakov and Shostakovich were featured strongly and presented quite a forceful and detailed performance. ‘Romance’ from the Gadfly, a regular feature on Classic FM, was played beautifully by Chris Lewis. The Sugar Plum Fairy from the Nutcracker, Lara’s Theme from Dr. Chivago and the Adagio from Spartacus added much contrast and the performance had begun to take a much more lighter fell than perhaps the audience had envisaged. Kalinka got the band moving, from a slow-stepping dance, through to a full-tempo finish to the first half. Calvary of the steps added an almost Christmas feel to the music. There was no more fitting finale than the 1812 overture to present a full-dynamic number. We apologise for the lack of fireworks, however feel that Rob Williams caning the Bass Drum full belt was certainly enough to bring the cannons to the fore for a big finish.
We were also joined by Claire Hughes whose family has quite of lot of history with the Band in the last 20 years. She finally made her debut to play the Tubular Bells in the 1812. Rick Bendle also did a great job helping on percussion.
There has been a fantastic responses from our audiences and it has been suggested that this has been our best Themed Concert yet – in 9 years.
We are looking for Ideas for our 2005 Themed Concert so if there is a particular theme which is likely to have a large number of brass arrangements for then please let us know.
September 2004
Forthcoming Concerts
We have set an ambitious Theme for this year’s Themed Concert. ‘A Russian Extravaganza’ was a Theme picked by Nigel Seaman earlier in the year, so we have decided to continue with this plan.
The date is also earlier than in previous years, for the 9th October.
We will be presenting a concert of music from Russian composers and artists including Tchaikovsky,
Rimsky Korsakov and Shostakovic. Items on the programme include Scheherzade, Festival Overture, Little Russian, Symphony Number 4, and the 1812
Overture as a finale. Tickets will be available on the door, priced at £7 each, including programme and
refreshment.
It’s also that time of the year when we pre-empt Christmas – sorry.
We are performing 3 Christmas concerts this year. Friday 10th of December at 7.45 is the Chiseldon Christmas Concert in Chiseldon Church and tickets are
available on the door. We then play at the Haydonleigh Community Centre, Haydon Wick, on Saturday 11th but tickets for this concert will only be available from Band members due to huge interest.
Our final concert is a joint concert with Aldbourne WI Choir and the Choir of St Michael’s School on Sunday 12th December – this concert is free of charge.
This year we also join the Kentwood Choir in the Wyvern as part of their “Christmas Cracker” show. Two concerts are being presented on Sunday 5th December at 5pm, and 8pm and tickets will be available at the Wyvern box-office.
We are not featuring a concert programme, but are playing carols as part of the musical programme.
The Kentwood Choir are an excellent outfit, so it is worth getting further details from the Wyvern.
August 2004
Nigel Seaman
We, unfortunately bring bad news. Nigel Seaman, our current Musical Director, has had major health problems, initiated by a heart attack in July.
After many operations he is still in Hospital in Cardiff, and is unlikely to return to Aldbourne in the near future, and he is also unlikely to continue his position of Principal Tuba in BBC Wales Orchestra.
Our previous Musical Director, David Williams, has done a sterling job - temporarily stepping in for the August and September Pond, however, dependent on Nigel's recovery, we may be forced seek a new ‘Man in the Middle’ to lead us for the foreseeable future.
We wish Nigel the best of health for the future and will be in regular contact.
Summer Concerts
David Williams directed us at St. James Park, in London. We played two concerts on Sat 17th July, to entertain the crowds, as part of a programme of events organised by the Royal Parks Commission. The Pond Concerts have been great this year. For the July concert it stopped raining at about 6.20 in the evening. And just when we thought that the June Pond was as good as it gets, along came August. It goes to prove that no matter how much you advertise the concerts, the audience count is a barometer of the weather. Aided by clear blue skies, and near 30 degrees, we hit our best ever attendance, and collection at the concert. A HUGE thanks to all the donations, and we look forward to seeing you all next year. Spread the word - the concerts are definitely an evening of fabulous summer entertainment.
New Players
There have also a few personnel movements this summer.
We said farewell to Pete Grimshawe who has played cornet for the last 7 years with the Band.
We have also been joined by Lee Lamming on Eb Bass, and also Jim Bell on Soprano Cornet.
Jim played for the famous Sunlife Band at the height of their fame and is a welcome addition to the cornet section.
June 2004
Shortly after Blackpool came the re-opening of the Memorial Hall where we played a few light numbers for first open evening.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank St Michael’s School for accommodating us for the previous 5 months. I hope that we did not disturb computer club too much on
Tuesdays!
For the June Pond Concert we were helped by fortune. Firstly the weather - It doesn’t matter how much you advertise the Pond Concerts – if the weather is good then the crowds come out.
The secondly - one of our CD tracks ‘Pastime With Good Company’ was played on Desmond Carrington’s show on BBC Radio 2 on the afternoon of the concert. Desmond also did a great job to promote the Band reading some of the notes from the CD booklet,
and advertising the evening Concert. A packed Sunday evening with estimates of 500 in the audience – thank you everyone for your support and donations.
May 2004
Senior Trophy – Blackpool
The second most important contest of the year is the Spring Brass Band Festival at Blackpool. This is a contest attended by only the best bands in the country, and is the route to qualify for the prestigious British Open contest. The contest, held in the Blackpool Winter Gardens, is spilt into 3 sections and we played in the Senior Trophy (the lowest section). Last year we played in the Senior Cup but the competition was very hot and we were relegated to the Trophy.
Similar in format to the West of England a standard piece of music is played by all bands in a pre-drawn order of play, and this time two adjudicators assess the bands and award the final placing positions. In Senior Trophy the first 4 qualified for next years Senior Cup, and the bottom 6 are not invited back to play for at least another 3 years, so it was important to achieve a good result.
We played John Golland’s Concerto for Band, which was a piece that certainly stretched all the Bands on the day, whilst was a very exciting piece to listen from the audience. The Trophy was held in the Spanish Room – a concert venue decked out as a fantasy Spanish castle that somewhat resembled Lego-Land.
The Bands in our contest came from all geographic regions including Scotland and Wales. All but 2 Bands were Championship Section Bands, and all were ranked significantly higher than us in the National Gradings, so it was going to be a hard-fought contest.
There was a lot of percussion instruments used in the piece so there was a lot of stage set-up. The piece finally started securely, all our soloists played very well, and the adjudicators had many positive comments to the performance. The audience enjoyed our performance, and were we greeted by wolf-whistles after the final note. All the preparation work was rewarded with an 11th place and we beat some good Bands to ensure our return in 2005, which is excellent news.
Change of Rehearsal Venue (This one is the last – honest!)
Over the last 5 months the Band has spent a huge amount of time wheeling percussion instruments around the village to different rehearsal venues. We have used St Michael’s School, The Old Schoolroom, St. Michael’s Church and the Methodist Chapel. We have also been storing instruments and equipment in Pewsey and in a garage in the village.
The refurbishment of the Aldbourne Memorial Hall has thankfully progressed to plan, which will be a great relief to the percussion team, as we will be moving back at the end of May. The Hall has a new kitchen and toilets, and we have a new large storage room for our equipment. The stage has also been removed, which means that all our equipment will be able to be wheeled directly from our storage into the main hall. This will save much time to set-up for each rehearsal. On Friday 21st May the Band will be playing a few musical items at the opening ceremony.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who helped organise rehearsal and storage facilities during this period, and St. Michael’s School for providing our main rehearsal room.
April 2004
New Players
We have been joined by a new Bass Trombone player, Paul, who joined us initially to work with the Training Band.
Barry Scott left the Band in February, and Paul was on hand to initially fill-in at Torquay.
Paul has since joined as a full member of the Band. Paul is also well placed, as a music teacher,
to provide strong support to our training band. Graham Palmer has also re-joined the Band on Solo Baritone to
complete the line-up for this years’ West of England Championships.
West of England Championships
The West of England Championships at Torquay was a great weekend for the Band. This one contest is used to grade the Band for the entire year, and as such is the most important of them all. Each Band in the section plays the same piece and gets adjudicated by one person. The average of 3 year’s competition results is used to calculate the league table. The top 2 are promoted to the Championship Section, and the bottom 2 are relegated to the 2nd Section to play in next year’s competition.
This year’s venue was the Torquay Riviera Centre, and Bands from across the West of England congregated in Torquay hotels all weekend. Coincidence had us sharing a hotel with the Swindon Pegasus Band.
There is a draw to determine the playing order for the Bands, and we were unlucky to have picked last draw – which meant us waiting around all-day waiting to play. We had an extra rehearsal to put the finishing touches on the Coventry Variations and took to the stage full of confidence at 18:30. We played a very musical performance of the piece that was well received by the audience and Judge alike, and were placed 4th from 15 bands, which was a good result.
However, most people spoken to, including representatives from the winning band and the leading brass band web-site, had us firmly in second place, but it is one man’s opinion that counts. This placing, though, leaves us at the top of the First Section league table. This means that a reasonable result next year will gain promotion back to Championship Section.
March 2004
Aldbourne Brass Band forms Training Band
Aldbourne Brass Band is pleased to announce the formation of a Training Band. This is an initiative that the Band has had in the pipeline for many years.
Over the last 20 years there has been a gradual decline of music tuition being freely available in schools. This has lead to a decline in many musical organisations and Brass Bands across the country have taken the initiative to organise their own training of youngsters. Aldbourne had a very successful training band through the Seventies and early Eighties and the Band produced an excellent team of players capable of playing at the highest levels of brass banding. Twenty years on we have some of those promising youngsters still playing with the Band.
The Training Band meets each Sunday at 10am in St Michael’s School, Aldbourne, where individual tuition is available as well as ensemble playing. The Band is intended for people of any age and ability who would simply like to learn to play in a Brass Band. A number of instructors, including current Aldbourne Band players, are on-hand to teach and pass on support and help to players. There is also a selection of instruments available for use.
Please contact Rachael Walton on 01672 540952 for further details, or view the Band’s web-site www.aldbourne-band.co.uk for further details of the Band and its new training initiative.
January 2004
Happy New Year from Aldbourne Band
2003 was a very busy and successful year. We released our CD, selling over 500 copies so far, had radio airplay all over the country, played 18 concerts and entered many competitions, playing as far a-field as Blackpool, Weymouth and Colchester. We played a great Theme Concert in November then Christmas Carolling helped boost the Band’s flagging funds, Thank-you for all the donations and support across the year. Let’s hope for an even better 2004.
Out with the old and in with the new
We start 2004 with a change of Musical Director. Unfortunately, due to work commitments, Ian Holmes left Aldbourne Band prior to Christmas. Aldbourne Band achieved much with Ian at the helm and we are grateful for his good work with the Band. Moving forward we are working with Nigel Seaman as Musical Director, and we will also be working with Melvin White for certain competitions. Both Nigel and Melvin had worked with Aldbourne Band through the 1980’s and early 1990’s and we all excited to be working with them again.
Nigel's full biography is available here.
We have also changed our rehearsal venue, due to the refurbishment of the Memorial Hall we are rehearsing in St Michael’s School.
We are very grateful for the use of this excellent facility in the village.
Concerts
January 31st sees the Band’s annual concert in Immanuel Church, Upham Road, Swindon. This is the Band’s 41st annual performance in this venue. Starting at 7.30pm, tickets are £6 and will be available by contacting the band.
The Band returns to play in concert at St Michael’s Church on Saturday 6th March. We are making this spring concert an annual event, so book the first week of March into your diaries. Tickets will be available early February from the Post Office at £6 including programme and break-time refreshment.
New Players
We are also happy to be rejoined by Gareth Jones on Eb Bass. Gareth, a former player, also brings along his son Dean, to play Trombone – two welcome additions to the Band who joined just before Christmas.
Competitions
We have a few competitions lined-up in the spring and it is usually the part of the year where we are hard at work rehearsing to the exclusion of all else. We have entered the Aylesbury competition for the first time, in February, so we are not really sure quite what to expect. We’ll post an update in a later edition.
The competition at Torquay in March defines our grading in the National leagues for the entire year, and is the most important of all. The piece of music that all the Bands are required to play is entitled ‘Coventry Variations’. This is a modern arrangement of music that happens to commence with a full verse of the Coventry Carol before depicting many moods including the Blitz on Coventry in World War II. So if you happen to hear us rehearsing the Coventry Carol through Feb and March we have not gone completely mad.
December 2003
During the run-up to Christmas you will find Aldbourne Band playing outside your houses in the village, local supermarkets and other venues.
For those newcomers to the village, the band always plays in the village on Christmas Morning from 4AM and plays carols in each of the major roads, finishing at 6.30AM by playing from the roof of St Michael’s Church. The players then stagger home to get some well-needed sleep before joining in the festivities.
What a wonderful way to welcome in Christmas Day.
If you are stuck for ideas for Christmas presents you could look no further than the Aldbourne Band CD. It is available from the Post Office for £10, and we can also post recorded delivery for £11.50 to surprise someone for that special day.
We would also like to take this opportunity to thank the village of Aldbourne for their strong support and encouragement through 2003. We are a village Band and we couldn’t do it without your continued support. We wish you a Happy Christmas and hope to see many of you on Christmas morning.
Training Band
We have had plans for a training band for some time now, and we have had a lot of interest expressed. The training band will welcome any age with an interest in playing brass (yes, parents – even you!). Having now laid plans for a training band we are staging a number of forthcoming events. Our plan was to stage a first event in November and then follow-up in the New Year with a series of workshops and tuition.
We then aim to form a regular Band of players supported by tuition. In November we held the first music session with the Training Band. It was a delight to see so many youngsters playing along,
and these youngsters will certainly form the life-blood of the Band for years to come. Further sessions are organised through Jan, Feb, March and we would like to be able to meet weekly. The Training Band is intended for anyone of any age and ability who simply wishes to learn and play brass so if you are interested please contact Rachel Walton on 01672 540952.
November 2003
Theme Concert
The Theme Concert, entitled ‘A Commercial Break’, was a huge success. We featured music from selected TV adverts including Hovis, Allied Dunbar and Hamlet Cigars. The audience had to guess which advert each theme was from and the evening was staged as a quiz. Congratulations to ‘Beths Team’ who won the 1st Prize. Many thanks to our ‘box-offices’ the Post Office and Butchers who helped us fill St Michaels,
and to the Church for helping us stage the event.
Ideas for our 2004 Themed Concert are always gratefully received.
Training Band
We have had plans for a training band for some time now, and we have had a lot of interest expressed. The training band will welcome any age with an interest in playing brass (yes, parents – even you!). Having now laid plans for a training band we are staging a number of forthcoming events. Our plan was to stage a first event in November and then follow-up in the New Year with a series of workshops and tuition.
We then aim to form a regular Band of players supported by tuition. In November we held the first music session with the Training Band. It was a delight to see so many youngsters playing along,
and these youngsters will certainly form the life-blood of the Band for years to come. Further sessions are organised through Jan, Feb, March and we would like to be able to meet weekly. The Training Band is intended for anyone of any age and ability who simply wishes to learn and play brass so if you are interested please contact Rachel Walton on 01672 540952.
August 2003
August 2003 felt like the busiest August ever, and what a hot one too. Players were visibly melting on the stands at concerts through the month. The fantastic weather brought out what we believe was the biggest attendance at a Pond Concert in memory - estimates of around 500 people.
What a scorcher
Where do you go on a sunny summer afternoon to escape the pressures of busy and overcrowded life? For a walk in the park - and you may just hear a Band striking up at the Bandstand. Well Saturday 9th of August was one of those hazy summer days when Aldbourne Band entertained the crowds in St James Park, London. Though having checked the flag-pole though the most high-profile resident of the neighbourhood was not to be found at home on the day. It was certainly a sun-scorched day though (second hottest of the year) - the grass more yellow than green, and people doing whatever necessary to keep in the shade – except us! There was one exception to the rule and this was the inspector from the Royal Parks who sat in the front row of the deck chairs in suit and tie! Mopping a brow with his handkerchief his only other visible movement was to applaud between each musical item. The two concerts were presented with ease – the Band being in good form and having programmes ready from the recent Pond and Proms Concerts. The crowd were extremely appreciative coming forward to give personal thanks to many members of the Band.
Essex-on-sea
Weekend 3 took the Band to Essex to perform two concerts. Courtesy of Dave Shead we performed an evening of Stage and Screen music at Thaxted Church on the Saturday. We then took the stage at Colchester on Sunday as the ‘Warm-up’ act for the London Festival Orchestra in a proms concert. There were several logistical pressures on the stage – firstly nothing could be moved as it was all set-up for the Orchestra, and also everything was microphoned and sent out to the audience, several thousand of them, at about 200 Decibels. Ian Holmes said her has never heard us so quiet between pieces. In between the concerts we took-in the delights of Clacton on Sea, which was indeed a delight.
With August Pond Concert (a completely new programme yet again) we barely had time to recover from Essex before being back in rehearsal. We finished off August with a Wedding in the Village. Raised in Aldbourne village square were the flags poles – a sign of impending Carnival season . . . .
July 2003
The Pond Concerts have been very popular this year and we have tried to vary the content, by putting on different combinations of soloists, quartets and features, including marching down from the Church playing ‘Army of the Nile’ to arrive at the July concert. Completely out of the blue it surprised and delighted the crowds assembled for the concert.
Apart from a wedding and a few birthdays July was a quite month where many people took holiday time, bracing themselves for August.
A quick update on the CD – since February we have sold nearly 470 CDs which is pretty reasonable progress in 6 Months.
June 2003
A Summer Prom
June kicked-off with the first of the ‘Summer Season’ season where in the Pond Concert I think we played more soloists and features than full band numbers. We then presented our Summer Prom at The Old Manor House. Such was the demand for tickets, and the need to finalise numbers for catering we had to stop selling tickets on the Friday. Apologies if anyone was unable to get tickets on the day of the concert, but when we say ‘tickets available in advance’ it’s best to get them early. The evening was a great success, the music great the food was wonderful, and the atmosphere everything that a Proms concert promises. A huge thank you to John Jarvis for helping organise and host the event.
A Summer Fete
After such success, unfortunately there was a rather depleted band of 10 playing the Combined Churches Fete on the green, due to holidays and other commitments. The Band are out playing concerts and contests 22 weekends this year (and that’s before reheasrsals) – that’s almost every other weekend, and with jobs and busy lives people need to take holidays when possible - they just collided all on the same weekend. Still the 10 that played put on a spirited performance that entertained the crowds. Can we say a big thank you to Harry Sheppard and Maria Holstead for helping us out, though I am told, by a secret source, Harry thoroughly enjoyed playing back with the Band again (Harry was Principal Cornet with the Band 40 years ago and still has that musical quality).
May 2003
Training Band
Brass Bands all round the country are suffering from shortage of players and many bands are forced to disband. This is caused by reduced numbers of young players coming into the movement, mainly due to the lack of funding for teaching music in schools. This is creating a longer term problem for many bands, particularly those in rural areas where numbers of brass players is even smaller.
Aldbourne Band has plans to start a training Band again. We had a successful training band through the late seventies and early eighties that brought a wealth of talent into the Band who were capable of playing at the very top levels of banding.
The training band would not just be for training children, but people of any age who have an interest in playing with a Brass Band.
If you know of people of any age looking to either take-up playing, or who play currently and would be interested in joining our training band then please contact Rachael Walton On 01672 540952.
Blackpool – The Senior Cup
Without a pause to catch breath, since the West of England Championships, the Band commenced preparation for the Spring Brass Band Festival at the Blackpool Winter Gardens. The contest is staged in the Winter Gardens each May and is the qualifying contest for the British Open. This was an opportunity to play against the best Bands across England, Scotland Wales and Ireland. The top 20 Bands in the country play in the British Open and Bands rated 21 to 80 play at Blackpool. Last year we were promoted from the ‘Senior Trophy’ contest, and this year we played in the Senior Cup – for Bands rated 41 to 60. This was a severe challenge for the Band, having qualified for the Senior Cup in 20th ranking. Our final was 17 out of 20 which was a disappointment considering how well we played. We came in to the contest technically ranked 20, and came 17th. So next year we are ‘relegated’ to play in the Senior Trophy again at Blackpool – which is still a great contest to be in – in the top 80 Bands in the country.
APRIL 2003
Torquay – West of England Championships
On Saturday 5th April we travelled to Torquay to play in the annual West of England Regional Championships. Bands across the country each travel to their respective regional contest and play the same piece; Bradford, Stevenage, Swansea, Blackpool, Burton-on-Trent, Darlington, Falkirk and Torquay were this year’s venues. Our test pre-assigned test-piece was ‘Passacaglia on a Theme of Brahms’. This is a piece based on the final movement of Brahms Symphony No.4 and each band is adjudicated by a judge sat in a ‘tent’ in the auditorium – so not to see each band playing (and potentially bias the judging). This single contest each year defines our national grading. The performance had many strong points – the interpretation of the music was liked by the Adjudicator and we had a good overall sound, but the performance was beset with too many individual errors and had moments of untidiness. Our performance on stage certainly was not the best we had played the piece adjudicator placed us 7th out of 14 Bands
MARCH 2003
Strangely enough March was spent rehearsing the two pieces Passacaglia on a Theme of Brahms and Pagannini Variations for the forthcoming West of England Championships and Senior Cup competitions. We have been fortunate to work with Nigel Seaman alongside Ian Holmes in preparation and the Band would like to thank Nigel for his hard work.
The AGM took place and the committee voted in for the coming year was:
James Sheppard as Chairman,
Carl Smith as Vice Chairman,
Lionel Barnes as Treasurer,
Richard Hughes as Secretary,
Sue Jones as Contest Secretary,
Rob Williams as Publicity Officer,
Martin Holstead as Property Master,
Phil Ockwell as Band Sargeant,
Paul Uzzell as Assistant Band Master
Joined by Kate Hannam, Pete Grimshawe and Robert Marsh as committee members.
FEBRUARY 2003
St Mary Redcliffe Concert, Bristol
On Saturday 8th February the Band travelled to Bristol to play an evening concert in St Mary Redcliffe Church. This church is informally known as Bristol Cathedral due to its spectacular design and location. This concert was the premiere of the David Fanshawe compositions ‘Fanfare to Planet Earth’ and ‘Millennium March’. We were also joined in two of our pieces by the church Organ – we played Saint Saens Organ Symphony, and Batman the Movie and both pieces were amazingly enhanced by the presence of the Organ. The entire floor of the church was vibrating with the depth of the sound produced.
The great thing about being able to play new concert venues such as Thaxstead in Essex and St Mary Redcliffe is that we get to introduce new people to Aldbourne Band and Aldbourne Village, spreading the web-site details of both organisations further, selling CDs and promoting both.
CD Promotion
Once you’ve finally recorded, then produced a CD, the next job is to sell it!
Over the coming weeks and months we will be doing photos, press releases, articles, radio interviews, concerts and articles in newspapers and magazines. We also hope to get the CD reviewed by and played on Classic FM, BBC Radio Bristol, BBC Radio 2, GMR, BBC Radio Cornwall and Brass Band World Magazine, The British Bandsman Magazine, and the most prominent 4BarsRest web-site.
For local residents the easiest way to buy the CD is at Aldbourne Post Office for £10.
Forthcoming Contests
West of England Championships – Torquay, 5th April
Each year we compete in the championships that have traditionally been held at the Coltson Hall in Bristol, however this year we travel to the Torquay Rivieria Centre. We will compete against bands from across the West of England, and the first two placed bands will qualify for the National Championships. We will play in a section of 16 Bands, and each band will play the same piece of music – “Passacagglia on a Theme of Brahms”. An adjudicator sits in an enclosed box (not to be prejudiced by seeing which Band is playing), listens to each Band, and assigns marks out of 200 points. Once all band have played all points are placing are announced. This is the single contest in any year that contributes to our National grading, and is of absolute importance.
Senior Cup - Blackpool, 4th May
The Senior Cup is part of the Spring Brass Band Festival, held at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool. This competition is known as the qualifying round for British Open, in which the top 20 bands in the county compete. The Spring Brass Band Festival comprises 3 separate sections:
The Grand Shield – Bands rated 21 – 40
The Senior Cup – Bands rated 41- 60
The Senior Trophy – Bands rated 61 – 80
Last year we competed in the Senior Trophy and qualified to be promoted to the Senior Cup. If we are placed in the top 6 we get promoted to next year’s Grand Shield. This year we play a piece of music entitled ‘Paganini Variations’. This piece, composed by Phillip Wilby, is based on selected Variations from the composer Paganini and is an extremely musical composition, but one that severely tests the bands. We will also spend the weekend in Blackpool which gives the Band an opportunity to enjoy a social trip as well as the serious business of contests.
Forthcoming Concerts
Subscription Concert – 1st March
We are playing the first in our ‘Subscription Concerts’, on 1st March, in St Michaels Church. Members of the ‘Friends of Aldbourne Band’ will be receiving their two complementary tickets, and tickets will be able to be purchased in advance, and on the door. This will also be an opportunity to hear many of the pieces recorded on the CD ‘Aldbourne’.
Proms Concert – 21st June
One notable addition to this years schedule is a concert presented in the grounds of the Manor House. On Saturday 21st June the Band will be presenting an evening of Proms music, whilst food and refreshments will be provided in the garden. Tickets will be available closer to the date, but this provides an opportunity to put this evening into your diaries. Many thanks to Mr Jarvis for allowing us to stage this evening of entertainment.
JANUARY 2003
In 1963 Aldbourne Band played a concert in Immanuel Church, Upham Road Swindon, and each year since we have maintained a regular January concert. 40 Years on we have one or two of the original players who played in the first concert still playing with the Band, along with one or two supporters of the Band who were playing then. The 40th celebration concert was a great opportunity to invite back former players of the Band to join us for what turned out to be an excellent evening of entertainment. The Immanuel Choir sang and ode to Aldbourne Band, and a message of thanks and good luck was forwarded from the Vicar who had been leading the church in 1963. We’re heading for the Golden Anniversary concert in 10 years time! See you then . . . . . .
During the last few months of 2002 we were pleased to be joined by Barry Scott, a trombone player with great experience of top class banding. Barry (Bazza), originally from the North East of England, has filled the Bass Trombone seat. This has enabled Phil Ockwell to fulfil his life-time ambition to play a Tuba, bringing the Bass Section back to full strength – luckily for Phil, he is able to practice at home, as he now lives in a detached house with the nearest neighbour roughly 100 yards away!
2003 has also seen the welcome return to the Band of Tim Dixon, who played with the Band for over 15 years. Tim has returned to play Solo Euphonium.
We have also been continually amazed at the progress of Rick Bendle. Having died 5 times during January 2002 with successive heart attacks, and related problems, Rick seems to be going from strength to strength. He was able to join the Band for the CD recording playing some of the percussion parts! In December he held down a 15 minute slot to the delight of the audience at Haydon Wick concert, and he played and sang at the Blue Boar New Year’s Eve Party for many hours. Well done Rick and keep up the effort.
DECEMBER 2002
Christmas Concerts
As the shops become filled with Christmas paraphernalia we played our schedule of Christmas concerts:
Friday 6th 19:45 Chiseldon Christmas Concert
Saturday 14th 19:30 Haydon Wick Christmas Concert
Sunday 15th 19:00 Aldbourne Christmas Concert - St Michael's Church
Haydon Wick saw the welcome return of Rick Bendle to the ‘comedy-slot’. This was only 11 months sine Rick had a heart attack and died 5 times within 1 week. Rick has continually amazed all of us with his progress – fantastic effort Rick!
For the Aldbourne concert we are also pleased to be joined by the Aldbourne WI Choir and the Children of St Michael’s School. Both Choirs were a welcome addition to the programme and greatly entertained the audience.
Aldbourne Band were also found regularly at Sainsbury’s, in Stratton where we entertained the shoppers in sometimes freezing temperatures. And the village carol schedule included weeks of collecting and playing, followed by the traditional Christmas Eve, 4am on Christmas morning and carols from the roof of St Michaels Chruch at 6.30am.
NOVEMBER 2002
CD Recording
The weekend of the CD recording finally arrived. After months of preparation and 6 weeks of rehearsals we were ready to record. We took residency at Hungerford Primary School for the weekend of 29th November for two and a half days. Refreshments were provided throughout by Sue Jones, Alan Watson and Val Watson – Thank You. Keeping 30 people fed and refreshed is no mean feat for two and a half days.
OCTOBER 2002
Brass Through the Ages Concert
The ‘Brass Through the Ages’ concert was staged in October. This was the 7th in our annual series of Themed Concerts. The concert commenced with music from Elizabethan times moves through the different Ages including The Classics, Opera, 19th Century to the modern day. As much as the concert was an entertainment success it was also a creative success. This concert premiered the new composition ‘Crossing Jordan’ by composer Philip Gates. Philip joined the audience that evening and was most impressed by the performance of the Band. This was also a great opportunity to ‘show-off’ some of the hard work put in by Ian Holmes across 2002 and the improvement in the standard of the Band was evident throughout.
SEPTEMBER 2002
Wychavon Entertainment Contest
As Autumn draws-in we look forward to a busy schedule of contests and concerts of the coming months. The Band has entered the Wychavon Festival of Brass in Evesham, on Sunday 29th September, where we play five entertaining pieces of our own choice. The programme comprises Festmuik, A Nightingale Sang in Berkley Square, Trumpet Blues and Cantable, In Perfect Peace and Batman The Movie. Amongst a 10-strong field of the better bands from the Midlands, Wales and the West we are drawn to play 6th.
Forthcoming CD
It has been a number of years since we last presented a recording, but we are pleased to announce that a CD is going to be recorded in November. This CD is going to be a selection of music nominated by the Band and Ian Holmes. Currently we are reviewing local recording venues. What people possibly don’t realise is that recording a CD is no mean task. This will involve set-up and sound-testing, playing, recording, reviewing and re-recording over 2 full days. And to be playing all-day for two days is exceptionally hard work, but the end result will definitely be worth the effort. Entitled ‘Aldbourne’ the CD is planned to be available before Christmas. The CD will be on sale at Aldbourne Post Office, and Alan Watson from mid December and will be priced at £10.
Round-up of Summer Events
It has been a fairly run-of-the-mill summer for the Band, with the Pond Concerts forming the cornerstone of activity, combined with the Carnival, and associated events. This year we have also taken on the ship sailings, the Jubilee weekend, Eastbourne Social weekend, and a few miscellaneous paid performances. That makes up a grand total of 16 performances which is busy by any Band’s standards.
AUGUST 2002
Brass through the ages
Much of the Autumn has also been spent in preparation for the ‘Brass Through the Ages’ concert. This is the 7th in our annual series of Themed Concerts. The concert is on Saturday 26th October at 7.30 and tickets are available from the Post Office and the Butchers, and remaining tickets will be available on the door.
Photo Shoot
Much thanks to John Jarvis for letting us stage a photo shoot in his gardens in August. We have now had a complete set of group and sectional photos produced for the 2002 line-up. As many of you are familiar, there are photos staged outside the ‘Manor House’ going back to the start of the century. If you wish to buy photos from the latest shoot then these please contact Alan Watson on 01672 540580.
JULY 2002
Going Cruizing?
In July we played the first of two ship sailings at Southampton, the second to follow in
September. The Oriana sailed off to Portugal and the Canaries on Sunday 21st July,
and we played away from the Quayside numbers including The Radetsky March, Miller Magic,
and Land of Hope and Glory whilst watching layers of multi-coloured streamers descending
from the many decks of the ship. If anyone is going on a cruise on September 15th,
from Southampton, then we may just see you there.
JUNE 2002
Jubilee Festival
Well it has been quite a busy summer so far and none busier than the Jubliee weekend.
On the Friday we were still rehearsing the programmes for the 4 concerts that we played that weekend.
The first Pond concert was well attended on the Sunday,
then on Monday we played Marlborough High Street, Aldbourne and also at Sangsters,
near Marlborough. We did appreciate an hour long break at the well organised
Aldbourne celebrations before heading off to Sangsters though.
Thankfully it’s another 25 years before we cram so many concerts into such a short
space of time again!
Eastbourne Social Weekend
The Eastbourne social weekend was a little more fresh than hoped,
and we were definitely exposed to the elements.
We played a concert each day in the sea-front band-stand which was really quite a
magnificent building. Fortunately both the Band, and our ardent supporters had
full cover of roof overhead as the wind and rain lashed the seafront.
The Band performed well all weekend under new Musical Director, Ian Holmes,
and we also enjoyed the Eastbourne nightlife, which was busier and certainly younger
than we had been expecting.
MAY 2002
Ian Holmes – our new Musical Director
Once we had put the West of England Championships firmly behind us we were pleased to announce Ian Holmes as our new Musical Director. Ian has a fine pedigree as a Tuba player with the Sunlife Band and as a conductor with many Bands across Wales and the West of England. With Ian formally engaged we then set about preparation for Blackpool.
Spring Brass Band Festival - Blackpool
The Spring Bass Band Festival is staged in the Winter Gardens each May and is the qualifying contest for the British Open. This was an opportunity to play against the best Bands across England, Scotland Wales and Ireland. The top 20 Bands in the country play in the British Open and Bands rated 21 to 80 play at Blackpool. This was our first year in the contest and we were entered in the ‘Senior Trophy’ contest – for Bands rated 61 to 80. The test-piece ‘Un Vie De Matelot’ – A Sailor’s Life, suited the Band well and we were delighted to be placed 6th of the 20 Bands, which gains promotion to next year’s Senior Cup, i.e. the Bands rated between 41 and 60. The Winter Gardens provided an excellent venue for such a large contest and the sights of Blackpool also provided enough distraction for the Band to look back on a thoroughly great weekend.
Summer Schedule
It feels as though we have spent most of the 5 months working towards three competitions and the level of rehearsing has been higher then many years. If we didn’t have such a busy summer we may be able to relax and start coasting for a while! However, 15 summer engagements is fairly heavy for any Band and the summers highlights include the Jubilee weekend, a weekend at Eastbourne, playing cruise ships off at Southampton and, of course, the Pond Concerts.
Friends of Aldbourne Band group
Some times we are so busy it is easy to lose perspective, but Aldbourne Band works harder than most Bands in the country in terms of the number of rehearsals, concerts, performances and contests, and we also manage to maintain a quality group of musicians and such a great Band spirit of enjoying playing and socialising. As the costs of running Bands increase many of the country’s Bands are simply folding due to lack of funds or available musicians, and we are determined to maintain Aldbourne Band as an active village Band able to compete at National level. We are starting a group call the ‘Friends of Aldbourne Band’ to start co-ordinating support and fund-raising activities. Please contact Rob Williams on 01672 540506 if you wish to be involved.
Quarterly Newsletter
To widen our audience and keep many more people in touch with the Band there is also a quarterly newsletter available that will cover much more of our activities past and future, information about the wider band world, information on players, contest results, reviews of contests and concerts. The great aspect of the newsletter is that is enables us to promote Aldbourne and the Band to a far greater coverage than just our concert venues or the Dabchick distribution. If you would like to subscribe to this newsletter then please send a cheque for £2 to Aldbourne Band and send to Rob Williams, 24 Lottage Road.
APRIL 2002
West of England Championships
Each year the Band is graded in the National Championships. Aldbourne currently play in the Championship section, which is the highest section of 5. In each geographical area (we play in the West of England) each of the 5 sections compete against each other for places at the National Finals. Overall in the West of England nearly 100 Bands competed.
Within each section all the Bands play the same piece of music. This year the Championship Section played the Whitsun Wakes. The piece depicts Whitsun Week in the North West Region where traditionally factories would shut down and families would head to the seaside for holidays. There’s even a poke at Salvation Army Banding with a passage based on a Brass Band March playing on Whit Sunday morning.
Each section is adjudicated by one person and there are no hard and fast rules as how to award the placings. All too often this just becomes a matter of personal opinion or preference – as we found this year to our cost. The Band performed well, thoroughly enjoyed rehearsing the piece, and played well on the stage but, contrary to the opinion of many onlookers, the adjudicator placed us 11th. This results gives us an overall placing of 11th in the West of England, out of 100 Bands.
MARCH 2002
For the West of England Championships we have been working with Brian Grant, a professional musician and conductor based in Nottinghamshire. We have supplemented these rehearsals with Ian Holmes, a music teacher from Bristol.
Both Brian and Ian are highly regarded in the Brass Banding World and have experience with some of the better Bands in the country.
As is usual in Aldbourne Band, the entire month of March was spent hard at rehearsing.
AGM
At the AGM, in March, the committee elected was:
James Sheppard as Chairman,
Paul Smith as Vice-Chairman,
Lionel Barnes as Treasurer,
Richard Hughes as Secretary,
Sue Jones as Contest Secretary,
Rob Williams as Publicity Officer,
Martin Halstead as Property Master,
Paul Uzzell as Sergeant
joined by Clare Smith, and Phil Ockwell as committee members.
For the coming year the two main contacts for the Band are
James Sheppard for general inquiries 01672 512890
Richard Hughes to book the Band for engagements 01672 540419
Please use only these two numbers, and avoid contacting Paul Smith or Martin Upfold (our previous two officers) unless absolutely necessary.
FEBRUARY 2002
Yeovil Contest
We returned to Yeovil for the South Somerset Entertainment Contest. Even though this is in Somerset, this is an invitation-only contest drawing the very best Bands from the West of England, Wales and Midlands. We played very well but were disappointed with 13th place amongst very strong competition.
David Williams Departs!
February also, unfortunately, saw the departure of David Williams, Musical Director. David has been resident with the Band since 1995 and has always impressed the Band with his enthusiasm. He had endeared himself to our many audiences and has made many friends in Aldbourne. We will hopefully be appointing a successor within the next few weeks, but will happily engage David again in the future for occasional performances.
JANUARY 2002
