2023 nationals in Cheltenham

Well, what a day! We were drawn 9th, and after a rehearsal at 4pm, we performed around 6pm.

We gave it our all, had a great time, and came a respectable 12th among the best second section bands in the country.

It was lovely to meet up with our band president (and the composer of Lakeland Variations), Philip Sparke, who enjoyed our performance.

Some comments from various sources:

Brassing Around: ‘Another great performance this evening. There’s a lovely broad sound coming from the bass end, and also the mellows – particularly flugel and solo horns – play a prominent role during this variation. Well done.’ View the Facebook post from Brassing Around.

4barsrest: ‘Chiltern Hills may well be one as the score was worked out so well by MD Gordon Davies – with tempos right in the circa mark on the score and the dynamics relevant and contrasting too.

There was a defined style to each of the variations, perhaps not as vibrant as some, but colourful enough to enhance the differences. A fine euph and cornet were the pick of solid soloists and the fugal drive for home was paced so well.’

British Bandsman: ‘A confident sound, the opening bars felt a little cautious, but the drive in the music has taken over and this is pushing along nicely and well controlled from the front. Nice dynamic contrasts and controlled at both ends of the dynamic scale. Nice Euphonium Cadenza, nice shape and style, accompaniment balances well. Nice sound from the Solo Cornet, good flow and shape to this solo as well. The detail in this performance is excellent, it’s coming through and sounding good. Great ending to a very strong performance.’ View the Facebook post from British Bandsman.