4barsrest.com | eMagazine Downunder

Great year for Pleasley - so far....

NEWS

Things are on the up and up for the ambitious Pleasley Colliery Band it seems...

2013 is turning into a great year for Pleasley Colliery Welfare Band.

The band started the year at the Butlins Mineworkers Contest with a well deserved 2nd place in the Fourth Section, which was soon backed up by claiming runner up spots in both the 3rd and 4th sections at the Leicester Brass Band Association contest.

Bounce back

February saw the band come second at the NEMBBA contest, and after a 6th place finish at the Midlands Area contest they bounced back with victory at the recent Buxton Brass Band Festival

Great start

Band spokesperson Nick Harris told 4BR: "It’s been a great start to the 2013 season—and we hope there is more success to come."

He added: "We are celebrating the release of our first CD, entitled, ‘Blaze Away’ and the filming of our part in the forthcoming television series with the celebrity chefs, the Hairy Bikers at the Pleasley Colliery Pit Top Museum."

Report & Results: 2013 European Conductors Competition

NEWS

Kalle Suuava of Finland becomes the 2013 European Conductors Champion in Olso

The first major title of the 2013 European Brass Band Championships was decided on Thursday evening in Oslo, when Kalle Kuusava of Finland won the 6th European Conductors Contest.

Adam Cook of the United Kingdom was runner up, with Dominik Koch of Germany in third.

Energetic win

Kalle claimed the first prize of 3,000 Euros after he impressed the international panel of adjudicators with his direction of Robert Simpson's 'Energy'.

He got through to the final after first battling his way through three preliminary rounds that saw also him conduct the Staff Band of the Norwegian Armed Forces and the Norwegian Radio Orchestra as well as the Oslo Brass Band.

Precise direction

Although the audience for the final was sparse in number, they were certainly impressed by his precise direction of Oslo, on what is regarded as one of most difficult conductor's pieces in the brass band repertoire. They also voted to award him the 'Audience Prize'.

Confident Cook

Meanwhile, the Oslo band members were impressed by Northern Ireland's Adam Cook, representing the UK.

The Becontree Brass MD, showed a great deal of confidence in leading them through a finely structured performance of Edward Gregson's, 'Dances & Arias' to claim the 2,000 second place award, as well win the 'Band Award' for his fine efforts.

Adam was delighted at his achievement, which he felt would have a great impact upon his future development as a conductor.

"I'm thrilled to have come runner up, as the quality of the competitors not just in the final was incredible," he said. "I'm so glad that I took the opportunity to come here, and I really do think the experience will benefit both me and the bands I conduct in future."

Dom delight

German representative Dominik Koch also won many admirers for his flamboyant conducting style during the week, and especially during his engaging direction of Wilfred Hetaon's, 'Contest Music' which saw him claim the 1,000 Euro third prize.

He too hopes to work with more brass bands in future.

"I am taught by Maurice Hamers, and he has helped me a great deal with understanding brass band repertoire. Now I hope to be able to use this experience to work with more bands both in Europe and the UK if I have the opportunity."

Opera work

The winner has worked for the last four years as an operatic accompanist at the magnificent Oslo Opera House, and revealed that until this week, he had never conducted a brass band in his life.

"I saw the advertisement for the competition and thought I would give it a go," Kalle told 4BR.

"I want to become an orchestral or symphonic conductor in time, but I have now been bitten by the brass band bug, and would love to conduct a top band in the UK."

Fan

Kalle has also become a fan of the repertoire too - and especially of Robert Simpson's work, which he found very demanding.

"It looked quite easy when I first looked at the score, but what a difficult piece it turned out to be! It was so difficult to get the right pace and flow, and I was very grateful to the band who really helped me so much. I would love to conduct more of Simpson's works after this."

Results:
Adjudicators: Peter Szilvay, Dr Robert Childs, Ivan Meylemans, Hans Urbanek, Fried Dobbelstein

1. Kalle Kuusava (Finland)
2. Adam Cook (United Kingdom)
3. Dominik Koch (Germany)

Audience Award: Kalle Kuusava
Band Award: Adam Cook

Further details to follow, but please go to: goo.gl/vhL1e

2013 Europeans: Results to your mobile

NEWS

We will be sending out the 2013 European Championship results as a FREE text message.

Not going this weekend?

4barsrest will we be providing our comprehensive live text coverage of the event, and Twittering our way through the contest but you can also receive the results as a FREE SMS to your mobile as soon as the results are announced.

All you need to do is sign up, log in and give us your mobile number.

Not got an account yet?

Create an account with us - it'll only take a few minutes.

www.4barsrest.com/accounts/create.asp

Already got an account?

Log in and check you have supplied your mobile number in the correct format and ticked the box to receive the text message.

www.4barsrest.com/accounts/login.asp

Advert: Rayburn Tours

NEWS

The brilliant new Rayburn Tours brochure is now out so you can start planning those all important trips for 2014.

The Rayburn Tours 2014 band and orchestra tours brochure is out now!

If you haven’t received your copy then you can request one to be sent to you by going to: www.rayburntours.com

New finds

What can you expect to find in our new brochure?

9 stunning destinations throughout Europe

A range of indoor and outdoor venues, suitable for a host of repertoires styles

An excellent choice of cultural and leisure options to fill the time between performances

Share the experiences of other bands: who better to tell you all about a Concert Tour with Rayburn Tours, than those who have already enjoyed the experience!

And much more

If you wish to request a copy, then request a copy on our website today: www.rayburntours.com

Alternatively, visit the concert tours area of our website for detailed destination information, including suggested itineraries, visits and venues.

DON’T MISS OUT ON OUR EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNTS!

Early Booking Discount: Book before 29th July 2013 and receive £200 off your final invoice, or book before 23rd December 2013 and receive £100 off!

Already have a tour in mind? Beat the rush and enquire today!

Enquire today

Don’t just take our word for it! Here’s what some of our 2012 groups had to say:

Shepley Band, The Rhineland 2012.
“A great musical experience, a great social experience and a tour that ran like clockwork."

Watership Brass, Belgium 2012
“A memorable occasion for all concerned, particularly the Menin Gate ceremony, and a tour which will be difficult to beat!”

Wadhurst Brass Band, The Rhineland 2012
“We had a fabulous time, venues were great, audiences appreciative and the sun shone! We should have gone for longer.”

Queen's Award for Denis Wick

NEWS

The famous company is presented with a prestigious Queen's Award for Enterprise in International Trade.

Denis Wick Products has announced that it has been presented with a Queen’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade for 2013.

Export

Appropriately, the announcement was made on the 21st April—the Queen’s Birthday, and was made in recognition of the company’s achievements in the export market.

Over 80% of Denis Wick products are sold overseas and there is hardly a brass band, ensemble or orchestra anywhere in the world that does not use a one of their famous products.

Coveted

Stephen Wick told 4BR: "This accolade is one of Britain’s most coveted business awards, and offers recognition for some of the UK’s most successful companies - both large and small.

It is a reflection of the success that Denis Wick Products has achieved all over the world with its best-selling accessories for brass instruments."

Success

The Denis Wick factory in Poole, Dorset, produces full range of mutes and mouthpieces, with the company growing in recent years to reflect their success by moving into bigger premises and taking on new staff.

Stephen added: "As well as investing in the latest CNC equipment for mouthpiece production and in other high-tech machinery Denis Wick Products has also taken on trainees to learn the traditional craft-based skills, thus ensuring that these specialist skills are passed on to a new generation of highly trained workers.

The company also runs an apprenticeship scheme to help students to develop a wide range of metal working skills and to acquire nationally recognised qualifications."

Brass band sound

Although Denis Wick had a background as a symphony player (he was for many years Principal Trombone of the London Symphony Orchestra), his iconic mouthpieces are played all over the world, where they have helped shape the sound of the modern brass band.

Tribute

Stephen concluded: "Denis Wick started producing mutes and mouthpieces in 1968, and this award is a fitting tribute to the success that he has achieved with the company.

The company has now sold millions of mutes and mouthpieces and continues to refine its designs and bring out innovative new products.

Recent successes have included the best-selling Ultra mouthpiece range developed with Steven Mead, the new American Classic trumpet mouthpieces and the ground-breaking travel mute series."

4BR visit to Denis Wick

See 4BR visit the Denis Wick factory in Poole:

http://www.4barsrest.com/vision/play.asp?id=397#.UXd_17VOSHI

Advert: Dawsons

NEWS

There are some brilliant one off deals at Dawsons - so be quick or you will miss them.

Dawsons have a great deal on of ex-demonstration Besson and Yamaha instruments which are available on a first come/first served basis—so be quick!

One off deals

Besson Prestige Euphonium BE2052-2-0 in silver - £3,949.00 ex vat (£4,738.80 inc vat)

Besson Sovereign Tenor Horn BE950-2-0 in silver - £1,979.00 ex vat (£2,374.80 inc vat)

Yamaha YTR8335 Xeno Trumpet in Lacquer - £1,279.00 ex vat (£1,534.80 inc vat)

Yamaha YCR8335G Xeno Cornet in Lacquer - £1,399.00 ex vat (£1,678.80 inc vat))

Only one of each

There is only one of each up for grabs—so make sure you give Gary Bond a call on:

Direct: 01925 622199
Mobile: 07967 676402
Main Office: 08450 949022

Advert: Wessex Tubas

NEWS

Brand new half instrument covers now available from Wessex Tubas - just in time to stop Whit Friday scratches.

Wessex Tubas has announced that they are to make available leather style half covers for compensated euphoniums and BBb bass (992 & Imperial) as well as from June, covers for EEb bass.

Protect?

These protect the instrument from scratching by buttons or belt buckles, while allowing access to slides, water keys and valves.

They are the ideal addition to any player’s performance set up—and ideal for low brass players with a treasured new instrument to get with the Whit Friday marches coming up!

Military

The covers are very much the same design as used by the British military bands, and have not previously been available for the public to purchase and will fit Besson, York, Yamaha and of course, Wessex tubas.

Although not made with hole for trigger lever on Prestige euphoniums, that can easily amended, whilst there is enough slack to go around the trigger mechanism.

Prices

Prices are from £75 for euphonium half-cover - you can purchase from Wessex at http://www.wessex-tubas.co.uk/accessories/halfcover

Advert: John Packer Ltd

NEWS

There is a fantastic selection box of some of the world's greatest brass instruments to be found at John Packer

John Packer has an amazing selection box of instruments they are selling on behalf of clients—with some of the greatest names and some of the greatest instruments up for grabs.

Cornets:
B&H’ Roundstamp’ Sovereign Soprano Cornet (Silverplate)
B&H 928 ‘Roundstamp’ Sovereign Bb Cornet (Silverplate(
Yamaha 231s Long Cornet
Yamaha 2330 Bb Cornet
DEG Bb Cornet (Silverplate)
Yamaha Maestro Bb Cornet

Trumpets:
Olds Recordings trumpets
Getzen Eterna Bb /A Piccolo Trumpet (Lacquer)
Bach Strad LR180ML37 Bb Trumpet
Selmer Concept TT Trumpet Bb (Gold Lacquer)
Yamaha 1335 Bb Trumpet

Flugels:
Conn Flugel 25F (Silverplate)
La Fleur /Alliance Flugel (Lacquer)

Horns:
Besson 600 Tenor Horn (Silverplate)

Baritones:
Besson 700 Baritone

Trombones:
Olds Medium Bore Bb Trombone
Bach Medium Bore Bb Trombone
Yamaha 354 Medium Bore Bb Trombone
Holton TR156 Large Bore Bb Trombone

Tubas:
Besson Sovereign 994 BBb Tuba (Silverplate)

French Horns:
Conn 10DR Double French Horn
Besson 701 Compensating French Horn
Paxman Students Compensating French Horn

More information:

http://www.johnpacker.co.uk/

Advert: Wessex Tubas

NEWS

Fantastic new instruments and innovations to come to the market after Wessex returns to China.

Wessex Tubas founder Jonathan Hodgetts recently returned from a trip to China to visit the factory where most of their brass instruments are manufactured.

Successful trip

Jonathan told 4BR that he believed it was a very successful trip with a number of exciting outcomes.

"Some quality improvements were agreed to raise the standard of the Wessex brand even further," he said.

"As a result there will be new enhancements and improvements to existing models which will be announced as they are released over the coming months and most exciting of all, some new models too."

Development

Jonathan would only tantalisingly reveal that one development should cause great excitement amongst BBb bass players, although he was prepared to reveal another new model now.

To supplement the increasingly popular 19" bell EEb compensate tuba, Wessex will soon be releasing a new version with 425mm (16.75 inch) bell - ideal for solo playing and brass quintet work, or as an ideal instrument for developing young players.

New features

Jonathan also said he believes that it will include some revolutionary new features, not seen on a compensated EEb before.

Also to be made available are leather half covers to protect any make of EEb tuba from scratches from uniform buttons or buckles.

Jonathan added: "I’m delighted to making new instruments and accessories available—and all at Wessex’s usual reasonable prices!"

World Rankings: March update

NEWS

The latest rankings update sees Welsh band Tongwynlais regain a top 10 spot.

The latest World of Brass - 4barsrest.com Rankings show significant changes throughout after the recent Regional Championships in the UK, although the top five positions remain unchanged in spite of a number of surprise results.

Victories for Carlton Main Frickley Colliery (+1), Flowers (+2), Jaguar Land Rover (+33), Leyland (+1), NASUWT Riverside (+64), Regent Brass (+81), Tongwynlais (+3) and Whitburn (+4) will also provide these bands and the other qualifiers with further opportunities later in the year.

Some of them will also be appearing at the Spring Festival in May or the English National Championship in June, so we can look forward to more significant movements from them before the summer break.

Next on the horizon is the European Championships, at which Black Dyke and Cory will be looking to secure the top spot, but we can also expect strong challenges from leading contenders like Eikanger-Bjørsvik (Norway) and Brass Band Schoonhoven (Netherlands).

Other contests included in the rankings since the last update are:

Oxfordshire - won by Newstead Welfare;
Northern Ireland Brass Band League - won by 1st Old Boys Silver;
Silkeblaes Entertainment Contest - won by Aarhus;

To view all the ranked bands, go to:

www.4barsrest.com/rankings/default.asp

Note: This update does not include the results of the 2013 Australian Nationals

Report & Results: 2013 Australian National Championships

NEWS

Brisbane Excelsior reclaims National title in Perth under the baton of Howard Taylor.

Brisbane Excelsior has regained their premier position as Australia's leading top flight band by winning the 2013 National title amid the magnificent surroundings of Winthrop Hall at the University of Western Australia in Perth.

Challenge

Conducted by Howard Taylor, they narrowly beat off the challenge of the Royal Agricultural Society of Western Australia (RASWA) conducted by Dr Robert Childs, with Darebin City Brass directed by Tom Paulin in third.

Top class performances of 'In This Quiet Moment', 'The Devil and the Deep Blue Sea', 'ORB' and 'From Ancient Times' gave the Queensland Band a four point winning margin in the four legged contest of hymn tune, set work, march and own choice selection - although the result was in considerable doubt as an inspired RASWA pushed the eventual winners all the way to the finishing line.

Iconic trophy

Brisbane topped the points scoring charts in the set work and march, but with Darebin claiming the hymn tune prize thanks to their performance of 'The Day Thou Gavest' and RASWA producing a top class rendition of 'A Tale As Yet Untold' in the own choice section, it was no wonder that MD Howard Taylor wore a relieved look on his face when collecting the iconic Fireman's Helmet National Trophy.

In the end though, the greater depth of quality throughout the four disciplines over two separate days of competition, gave them their sixth victory in their last seven appearances at the National event - although not many of their previous victories would have perhaps been as close as this.

Opened door

Although they appeared to have clasped the famous winner's trophy with two hands following their Friday afternoon performances of the hymn tune and set work, an uneven rendition of the Van der Roost own choice certainly opened the door for their local rivals, although they regained their composure with a rousing rendition of the old Oldham Rifle Brigade march to regain the title once more.

B Grade:

There was success to celebrate for Western Australian 'Sand Gropers' in the B Grade, as Perth's Canning City Brass under Dr Geoffrey Lowe claimed their first ever national title.

Their performances of 'I Vow to Thee My Country', the set work, 'Lyonesse', the march 'The Australasian' and their own choice of 'Mountain Views' saw them claim the title by a clear five point margin from New South Wales rivals Toronto Brass, with City of Greater Dandenong in third.

C Grade:

There was also a clear cut victory for Marion City from South Australia in the C Grade, as they claimed their first national success since 1973.

Their performances of 'In Perfect Peace', 'Northern Landscapes', 'Rolling Along' and 'Four Dances' from the ballet 'Checkmate', gave them an eight point winning margin over runner-up Warringah Concert Brass, with Town of Victoria Park Brass.

D Grade:

There was also another first time winner in the D Grade, as Goldfields Brass directed by Keith Nicholas claimed the title by a massive ten point margin from reigning champion Warriparinga Brass, with Bunbury City in third.

Goldfields delivered a quartet of fine performances on their hymn tune, 'Deep Harmony', set work, 'Prelude, Song & Dance', march, 'The Digger' by Percy Code and their own choice selection of 'Convergents'.

Other titles

In what was a very busy weekend if music making on the university campus, the Junior C Grade Brass Championship went to sole entrant Morawa DHS Senior Brass Band, whilst the prestigious Champion of Champions Solo Championship title was claimed by one of Australia's rising young talents, 17 year old cornetist, Dominic Longhurst of St Mary's Band Club Brass Band in New South Wales.

A full retrospective of the Australian National Championship will appear on 4BR in the next few days.

As it happened:
www.4barsrest.com/live/2013AustralianNationals

Open A Grade Brass:
Venue: Winthrop Hall
Adjudicator: Richard Evans

Points: Hymn/Test/Own Choice/March

1. Brisbane Excelsior (Howard Taylor), 2/6, 48/193/194/47=482
2. RASWA Brass (Robert Childs), 5/4, 47/191/195/45=478
3. Darebin City Brass - Preston Band (Tom Paulin), 6/3, 49/189/190/43=471
4. South Brisbane Federal Band (Mareika Gray), 4/7, 47/185/191/44=467
5. Footscray Yarraville (Phillipa Edwards), 3/8, 43/185/191/46=465
6. Brisbane Brass (Bill Barker), 8/5, 46/187/184/39=456
7. K&N Spring Gully Brass (Dr Kevin Cameron), 7/2, 46/183/185/41=454
8. Tanunda Town Band (David Polain), 1/1, 42/181/187/40=450

Open B Grade Brass:
Venue: Winthrop Hall
Adjudicator: Richard Evans

Points: Hymn/Test/Own Choice/March

1. Canning City Brass Band (Dr Geoffrey Lowe), 3/2, 43/186/191/40=460
2. Toronto Brass (Timothy O'Hearn), 2/1, 42/182/188/42=455
3. City Of Greater Dandenong (Michael Mathers), 1/3, 44/184/185/38=451

Open C Grade Brass:
Venue: Callaway Music Auditorium
Adjudicator: Mark Ford

Points: Hymn/Test/March/Own Choice

1. Marion City Band (Veronica Boulton), 1/1, 41/175/43/187=446
2. Warringah Concert Brass (John Saunders), 2/2, 40/172/41/185=438
3. Town Of Victoria Park Brass (Joshua Davis), 4/3, 37/168/38/179=422
4. Geraldton City Band (Joanne Sorensen), 3/4, H/35/165/36/176=412

Open D Grade Brass:
Venue: Callaway Music Auditorium
Adjudicator: Mark Ford

Points: Hymn/Test/March/Own Choice

1. Goldfields Brass Band (Keith Nicholas), 6/3, 36/163/38/166=403
2. Warriparinga Brass (Veronica Boulton), 3/4, 33/166/33/161=393
3. Bunbury City Band (Bill Curtis), 1/6, 32/161/34/162=389
4. Busselton Brass (Nicky Hair), 4/1, 30/160/36/163=389
5. The Challenge Brass Band (Les Sivwright), 2/5, 31/159/35/159=384

W. Melville AFA Brass), Brian Dodds), 5/2

Draws: 2013 Australian Nationals (Sunday)

NEWS

Keep up to date with all the draws from the University of Western Australia, Perth.

For live updates, visit:
www.4barsrest.com/live/2013AustralianNationals

Draw: Open A Grade Brass, March & Own Choice

Venue: Winthrop Hall
Commencing:11:10am
Adjudicators: Mr Richard Evans

1. Tanunda Town Band, David Polain
Washington Grays, Grafulla, Lowry Sketchbook, Wilby
2. K&N Spring Gully Brass, Dr Kevin Cameron
The President, German, Paganini Variations, Wilby
3. Darebin City Brass - Preston Band, Tom Paulin
The President, German, English Heritage, Lloyd
4. The Royal Agricultural Society Of WA Brass, Robert Childs
Old Comrades, Tieke, A Tale as Yet Untold, Sparke
5. Brisbane Brass, Bill Barker
The Contestor, Powell, Isaiah 40, Redhead
6. Brisbane Excelsior, Howard Taylor
O.R.B., Anderson From Ancient Times, van der Roost
7. South Brisbane Federal Band, Mareika Gray
The President, German, Earthrise, Clarke
8. Footscray Yarraville City Band, Phillipa Edwards
O.R.B., Anderson, Music of the Spheres, Sparke

Draw: Open B Grade Brass, March & Own Choice

Venue: Winthrop Hall
Commencing: 9:30am
Adjudicators: Mr Richard Evans

1. Toronto Brass, Timothy O'Hearn
Praise, Heaton, The Plantagenets, Gregson
2. Canning City Brass Band, Dr Geoffrey Lowe
The Australasian, Rimmer, Mountain Views, Moren
3. City Of Greater Dandenong, Michael Mathers
Brilliant, Ord Hume, Journey into Freedom, Ball

Open C Grade Brass, March & Own Choice

Venue: Callaway Music Auditorium
Commencing: 11:45am
Adjudicator: Mark Ford

1. Marion City Band, Veronica Boulton
Rolling Along, Himes, Four Dances from the ballet Checkmate, Bliss
2. Warringah Concert Brass, John Saunders
The Black Knight, Rimmer, The Aeronauts, Richards
3. Town Of Victoria Park Brass, Joshua Davis
Star Lake, Ball, Rhapsody for Brass, Goffin
4. Geraldton City Band, Joanne Sorensen
Amsterdam Congress, Skinner, Music for a Festival, Sparke

Draw: Open D Grade Brass, March & Own Choice

Venue: Callaway Music Auditorium
Commencing: 9:30am
Adjudicator: Mark Ford

1. Busselton Brass, Nicky Hair
The Cross of Honour, Rimmer, A Saddleworth Festival Overture- Richards
2. Melville AFA Brass (withdrawn), Brian Dodds
The Cross of Honour, Rimmer, The Shipbuilders, Yorke
3. Goldfields Brass Band, Keith Nicholas
The Digger, Code, Convergents, Cesarini
4. Warriparinga Brass, Veronica Boulton
Midwest March, Richards, Oregon, de Haan
5. The Challenge Brass Band, Les Sivwright
The New Colonial March, Hall, Sway, Ruiz
6. Bunbury City Band, Bill Curtis
Death or Glory, Hall, Ross Roy, de Haan

Draws: 2013 Australian Nationals (Friday)

NEWS

Keep up to date with all the draws from the University of Western Australia, Perth.

For live updates, visit:
www.4barsrest.com/live/2013AustralianNationals

Open A Grade Brass
Date: Friday 29 March and Sunday 31 March
Venue: Winthrop Hall
Commencing: 11:00am
Adjudicator: Mr Richard Evans

Draw

Test piece: The Devil and the Deep Blue Sea, Derek Bourgeois

Tanunda Town Band (David Polain), 1
It Is Well With My Soul, arr Broughton
Brisbane Excelsior (Howard Taylor), 2
In This Quiet Moment, Bosanko
Footscray Yarraville City Band (Phillipa Edwards), 3
Mid All The Traffic, Ballantine
South Brisbane Federal Band (Mareika Gray), 4
Mansions of the Lord, Glennie-Smith
5. The Royal Agricultural Society Of WA Brass (Robert Childs), 5
Praise My Soul the King of Heaven, Goss
6. Darebin City Brass - Preston Band (Tom Paulin), 6
The Day Thou Gavest, Scholefield
K&N Spring Gully Brass (Dr Kevin Cameron), 7
In Perfect Peace, Downie
Brisbane Brass, Bill Barker, 8
Nicaea, Dykes

Open B Grade Brass: Hymn and Test Piece
Venue: Winthrop Hall
Date: Friday 29 March and Sunday 31 March
Commencing: 9:30am
Adjudicator: Mr Richard Evans

Test piece: Lyonesse, Simon Dobson

Draw

City Of Greater Dandenong (Michael Mathers), 1
I Know Thou Art Mine, Ballantine
Toronto Brass (Timothy O'Hearn), 2
Love Unknown, Ireland
Canning City Brass Band (Dr Geoffrey Lowe), 3
I Vow To Thee My Country, Holst

Open D Grade Brass, Hymn and Test Piece
Venue: Callaway Music Auditorium
Date: Friday 29 March and Sunday 31 March
Commencing: 9:30am
Adjudicator: Mark Ford

Test: Prelude, Song & Dance, John Golland

Draw

Bunbury City Band (Bill Curtis), 1
The Day Thou Gavest, Scholefield
The Challenge Brass Band (Les Sivwright), 2
All In The April Evening, Robertson
Warriparinga Brass (Veronica Boulton), 3
The Day Thou Gavest, Scholefield
Busselton Brass (Nicky Hair), 4
The Day Thou Gavest, Scholefield
Melville AFA Brass (withdrawn) (Brian Dodds), 5
Deep Harmony, Parker
Goldfields Brass Band (Keith Nicholas), 6
Deep Harmony, Parker

Junior C Grade Brass, Hymn and Test Piece
Venue: Callaway Music Auditorium
Date: Friday 29 March
Commencing: 11:50pm and 2:00pm
Adjudicator: Mark Ford

Test: The Territorians, Bill McAllister

Morawa DHS Senior Brass Band (Dean Carslake)
Blaenwern, Rowlands

Open C Grade Brass, Hymn and Test Piece
Venue: Callaway Music Auditorium
Date: Friday 29 March and Sunday 31 March
Commencing: 12:15pm
Adjudicator: Mark Ford

Test: Northern Landscapes - Peter Graham

Draw

Marion City Band (Veronica Boulton), 1
In Perfect Peace, Downie
Warringah Concert Brass (John Saunders), 2
Reflections in Nature, Redhead
Geraldton City Band (Joanne Sorensen), 3
In Perfect Peace, Downie
Town Of Victoria Park Brass (Joshua Davis), 4
I Vow To Thee My Country, Holst

2013 Australian Nationals: The Venues

NEWS

Get a flavour of where you'll be playing before you touch down in Perth next week.

Russell Torrance interviews Stu Bennion (from the Nationals Organising Committee) and Dr Alan Lourens, Head of the UWA School of Music.

BBANZ announce Helen Hoy as new Executive Officer

NEWS

The experienced Helen Hoy has become the new Executive Officer of the Brass Band Association of New Zealand.

It has been announced by the Brass Band Association of New Zealand that Helen Hoy will become its new Executive Officer following the retirement of the current General Manager, David Dobson.

She will move to Wellington in early April to take up her appointment.

Experience

Helen Hoy is a currently a member of the National Management Committee of BBANZ but will relinquish her role on this committee following her appointment.

In 2012 she was re-elected to the National Management Committee, having first served for three years from 2002, during which time she was the Assistant Manager of the 2002/03 National Youth bands.

She was appointed to be the National Contest Manager, a role she held until 2008.

Skill

BBANZ President, Evan Sayer told 4BR: "The Brass Band Association is fortunate to have found someone of Helen’s experience and skill to take on the role of Executive Officer, which includes management and supervision of National Contests."

Adjudicator appointment

Meanwhile, BBANZ has announced that Kevin Dell, a member of several National Bands, former BBANZ President, co-manager of the National Band of New Zealand has accepted the appointment as Assistant Chief Adjudicator for the 2013 BBANZ National Contest.

Among his duties, Kevin will adjudicate the C and D Grade band events.

Report & Results: 2013 Ern Keller Memorial Contest

NEWS

18 year old Jonathan Ramsay claims prestigious Ern Keller title as St Mary's Band Club Brass adds Band of the Year crown.

Sydney based euphonium soloist Jonathon Ramsay has been crowned 2013 Ern Keller Champion, after beating a field of experienced rivals to take the $1000 prize money and join a list of famous names as the winner of one of the banding world’s most prestigious solo competitions.

Carnival of Venice

Performing Arban's 'Carnival of Venice', his consistency, fluent style and stylish execution won the day in the judge's opinion, and at the age of only 18 he adds the Keller title to a CV that already includes appearances in the Symphony Australia ‘Young Musician of the Year’ and several high-profile concerto performances.

Chief Adjudicator Ron Prussing praised the competing field, but made specific mention of repertoire choice and suitability in performance.

Good brass playing

Assisted by Peter Walmsley and Howard Taylor, he also alluded to a basic need to fulfil the basics of what he termed, ‘good brass playing and good music making’.

The high class field of contenders included, Chris Moran (Australian National), Andre Carpenter (Queensland), Matthew Van Emmerick (Victoria), Joe Cook (Tasmania), Kevin Joughin (South Australia), Sarah Draper (Western Australia), Phil Johnston (New Zealand) and Shiho Takeda (Japan).

Band of the Year

Meanwhile, St Mary's Band Club Brass claimed the 'Band of the Year' title in the short contest that traditionally takes place after the solo event has concluded.

Opening with Leigh Baker's 'All Night Long', St Mary's paid tribute to Ern Keller's wonderful vision, with 'Once Upon a Time in the West'.

After a whip through George Alan's march 'The Wizard', and a breathtaking soloist showcase in Peter Graham's 'Cossack Fire Dance', the band headed to the finish with John Rutter's 'Lord Bless and Keep You' before closing with ‘Dundonnel’, from ‘Hymn of the Highlands’.

Also competing in the event were Warringah Concert Brass, as well as the Willoughby Band, who took the novel approach of presenting an Andy Scott inspired programme incorporating visual accompaniments.

Exceptional sopranos

Whilst the adjudicators made specific mention of the exceptional soprano playing from all bands, the soloist award went to Bella Harvey, of Willoughby for her rendition of 'And Everything is Still'.

Very best

Ben Crocker, Music Director, St Mary's Band Club told 4BR: "The Keller underwent a number of changes this year, but the essential focus on a collegiate atmosphere and a celebration of the very best solo playing remains faithful as ever to the ethos of the competition."

He added: "Our deepest thanks must go to Felicity Rynn, the contest organiser, who has produced an outstanding event for 2013. The future appears bright, with new partnerships and several exciting developments set to be unveiled for 2014 and beyond."

World Rankings: Pre-regionals update

NEWS

Eikanger-Bjørsvik re-enters the top 10 with victory at the recent Norwegian Nationals.

The first 4barsrest.com - World of Brass Rankings update of 2013 sees little change at the very top, but significant below that following the French and Norwegian national championships, where Eikanger-Bjørsvik and Paris Brass Band retained their respective titles.

The other ranking contests held since the last update were:

Butlins Mineworkers - won by Virtuosi GUS
Yeovil Entertainment Contest - won by Flowers
Brass at the Guild - won by Oldham (Lees)
Durham County BBA - won by Durham Miners Association
Gloucester BBA - won by Abergavenny
Welsh Open - won by Tredegar
NEMBBA Contest - won by Silk Brass

The next update will follow the regional championships, which kick off this weekend, with over 500 UK bands fighting for places at the Finals in September and October.

To view all the ranked bands, go to:

www.4barsrest.com/rankings/default.asp

Trials continue in New Zealand

NEWS

The successful trial events of 2012 will continue at the New Zealand National Championships in New Plymouth this year.

The Brass Band Association of New Zealand has announced that it is to continue with two new trial events at its National Championships to be held in New Plymouth between 17th & 21st July.

Succesful

Contest Manager Dave Dobson told 4BR: "We are pleased to announce the continuation of the two new trial events that proved successful in 2012—the Amateur ‘All Other Instruments’ and ‘Open Slow Melody’."

He added: "The Amateur ‘all other instruments’ is open to players of any brass instrument other than Bb Cornet, which already has its own division. Music is own choice and must be limited to no more than 7 minutes.

Players who have been placed 1st, 2nd or 3rd in National Championship events in the past three years are not eligible."

Open Slow Melody

Dave went on: "The Open Slow Melody is open to players placed 1st, 2nd or 3rd in a similar event in District Contests. Music is own choice and must be limited to no more than 6 minutes.

Players who receive an invitation from BBANZ to compete in the Invitation Slow Melody event are not eligible to enter this contest, although intending players may submit an entry if the list of the invited performers has not been announced at the time of their application.

The winner of this event will be invited to play in the 2012 Invitation Slow Melody."

Test Pieces

Dave also revealed that the announcement of the test pieces for the Championship will be revealed on Friday 15th March, whilst the closing date for entries is two days later on the 17th.

It is intended that the solo and party 2013 timetable will mirror the 2012 one.

More information

More information can be seen at: www.brasschamps2013.co.nz

NABBC aims to lead from the front

NEWS

The National Association of Brass Band Conductors looks to the future with new proposals and website.

Andrew White, Chairman of the National Association of Brass Band Conductors has announced that the organisation has started to implement a number of new changes which, he hopes will have a positive impact upon its growing membership.

Promoting

Andrew (above) told 4BR: "The NABBC was formed in 1946 with the objectives of promoting and representing the interests of its members and providing an effective organisation—and this is very much the ethos today.

However, we wish to continue to reach out to conductors, and so we have radically overhauled our ongoing aims and objectives with policies which I believe will have a significant positive impact on new and current members."

Overhaul

One of the first major overhauls has come with the organisation’s new website, which has been brought up to date to provide greater clarity.

Andrew added: "This is just one of the many new initiatives we are taking to improve interaction between ourselves and members and we welcome feedback either online or personally from conductors at any level, and hope to be able to invite them to out 2013 conference."

New website

New website: www.nabbc.org.uk

Advert: Wessex Tubas

NEWS

It's not only tubas we sell at Wessex - so why not find out more by giving us a ring or by seeing us in Bradford and Perth.

Because of its name, many people may think that Wessex Tubas just sells—well, tubas. But not a bit of it!!

Tubas to sopranos

We are also making huge strides in the market place with the full range of our excellent instruments—from tubas to soprano cornets.

We also provide more exotic instruments too—not easily available elsewhere in the UK, such as German rotary valve brass, contrabass trombone, bass trumpet and sousaphones.

Free blowing cornet

Amongst the brass band line up is a free blowing Bb cornet with red brass leadpipe, all nickel-silver slides, beautiful singing voice and spot on intonation. It’s a professional standard cornet for only £225 in lacquer, or £275 in silver.

It’s well worth any band or individual on a budget considering before you opt for any other rivals.

Visit

Customers are always welcome to visit the Wessex showroom in Andover, Hampshire by appointment contacting Jonathan Hodgetts on: 07787 504987
e-mail:

Bradford and Perth

In the next two weeks brass players in Yorkshire and Scotland will get a chance to see and try for themselves how good are Wessex without having to travel.

The company will have a trade stand at Bradford on 2nd/3rd March and Perth on 9th/10th March.

More information

Do visit and find out for yourself why people are getting so excited about this range of fine playing and inexpensive brass!

www.Wessex-Tubas.co.uk
Email
Tel: +44(0)7787 504987

Radio: Sunday Bandstand

NEWS

More great music from the heartland of Yorkshire - produced for the rest of the banding world to enjoy by Chris Helme.

Sunday Bandstand:

Produced and presented by Chris Helme for further information please see www.chrishelme-brighouse.org.uk and follow the Sunday Bandstand links for this play list and previous week’s. It is also available via Podcast from the Radio Phoenix website www.phoenixfm.co.uk

Yorkshire Dales

It is also available on Drystone Radio 106.9FM or through their website www.drystoneradio.com on Sunday mornings between 8am and 10am

Wigan

My radio programme has now been picked up by www.wiganfm.com a local internet only radio station and my weekly brass band show can be heard on Sunday’s between 11am and 1pm

New Zealand

Listeners in New Zealand will be pleased to hear that this programme is now also played on www.worldfm.co.nz in Wellington at 2p—4pm (NZ time) every Thursday.
Requests

I am always pleased to receive requests—you might want to hear a piece from your own early days in banding, recordings that have long since joined the record deletions list and difficult to find.

Or have a burning nostalgia question about the world of brass bands, if you have then please contact me via e-mail:

Sunday 24th February:

Rhythm and Blues
Philip Sparke
Opening for weekly show
Foden's Band
MD: Michael Fowles - 2010

Dance of the Jesters
Peter Tchaikovsky
Arr: James Curnow
Lexington Brass Band (Kentucky USA)
MD: Dr. Ronald Holz - 2004

Guadalajara
Arr: Alan Fernie
West Lothian Schools Band
MD: Nigel Boddice MBE - 2003

Alla Turkis Algeris
Arr: John Slinger
Hammonds Sauce Works Band
MD: Geoffrey Whitham - c1970

Walking the Dog
George Gershwin
Arr: Mark Freeh
Trombone Soloist Brett Baker with the Reg Vardy Band
MD: Ray Farr - 2012

Music for Battle Creek
Philip Sparke
Brass Band Willebroek
MD: Frans Violet - 2010

Stars in the Morning
Kenneth Downie
Norwich Citadel Band
BM: Richard Woodrow 2008

Around the World March
Alex Owen
Besses O’ th’ Barn Band
MD: Roy Newsome - 1983

Aria - Bozza
Arr: Klaas van der Woude
Euphonium Soloist Steven Mead with the Williams Fairey Band - 2001

Dance Fever
Kenneth Downie
Massed Bands of Kirkintulloch and the Unison Kinneil
MD: Frank Renton - 2003

Amazing Grace
Arr: Goff Richards
Sellers Engineering Band
MD: Philip McCann with the
Honley Male Voice Choir, The Boys of the Leeds Parish Church Choir & Simon Lindley organ - 1992

The Alchemyst Journal
Kenneth Hesketh
Fodens Richardson Band
MD: Bramwell Tovey - 2008

Hail Ancient Walls
Charles Gounod
Arr: Howard Snell
Euphonium Soloist not known
Brighouse and Rastrick Band
MD: Allan Withington - 1990s

American Trilogy
Arr: Goff Richards
Sellers Engineering Band
MD: Philip McCann - 2003

Ellington Fantasie
Duke Ellington
Arr: Richard Domec
Lexington Brass Band
Guest MD: Dr. Skip Gray - 2000

West Country Fantasie
Gordon Langford
Launceston Town Band
MD: David Dobson - 2012

Misty
Johnny Burke & Errol Garner
Arr: Darrol Barry
Flugel Horn soloist Ellie Joy with the Launceston Town Band
MD: David Dobson - 2012

Highland Cathedral –
Roever & Korb
Massed Bands of Kirkintulloch and the Unison Kinneil, Inverclyde Schools Junior Choir AND Pipe Band
MD: Frank Renton 2003

Finale from William Tell
Rossini
Cory Band
MD: Dr. Robert Childs 2010

Rhythm and Blues
Philip Sparke
Ending for weekly show
Foden's Band
MD: Michael Fowles—2010

Foden's Double performances now available on 4BR

NEWS

If you want to recall just why Foden's claimed the historic 'Double' in 2012, then why not buy their latest CD from 4BR....

One of the most eagerly awaited CD releases of the year is now available with 4BR

Double

You can now enjoy Foden’s historic ‘Double’ winning performances on their latest ‘Patron’s Choice VI’ CD—with the live recordings from Symphony Hall in Birmingham and the Royal Albert Hall in London of ‘Electra’ and ‘Daphnis et Chloe’.

More

And of that isn’t enough to whet your appetite then Foden’s also include music from Wilfred Heaton, Kenneth Downie and Edward Elgar as well as showcasing soloists, Richard Poole, Helen Williams, Glyn Williams and the percussion duo of Mark Landon and Anthony Mann.

Go shopping at:

Go to: http://4barsrest.com/shopping/cd_detail.asp?id=977

Advert: Wessex Tubas

NEWS

Experiences with a Wessex Compensated BBb Bass...

The vastly experienced Stuart Haigh has enjoyed first hand experience of Wessex tubas....

"When I was asked to help out my local band at a contest last year I didn’t hesitate offer my help—although you can imagine my dismay when I found the band’s Bb tubas in a shocking state of repair—almost unplayable in fact!

Thankfully, I was given the task of replacing the tubas with new ones—although my budget was £5k for both!"

Good reports

"I’d heard some good reports about Wessex Tubas, so I travelled to the North West Regional Contest in Blackpool to try a Wessex on their tradestand.

I was handed a silver plate bass that looked splendid. I warmed it up and used my electronic tuner and was very surprised at the good results!

It was quite well made despite it being over £5k cheaper than the leading brands, and I was able to get all of the pedal notes and the valves were very slick.

10 minutes blowing on a tradestand is not the ideal test so I came away still a bit uncertain."

Splendid

"However, five months later the band decided order a Wessex!

A gold lacquer bass arrived 4 days later in perfect condition, and again looked splendid, with slick and silent valves - the best I’ve ever played.

We were all waiting for the valves to stick, slides to fall out and the lacquer to turn black like it did on many of the leading brand tubas of the late 80s! Not a bit of it!"

Like new

Eight months later the Wessex still looks like new, never fails, and has had none of the aforementioned problems. This convinced the band and myself to buy another, which we did in January 2013.

They have done the job well with no faults whatsoever. Yes, our very top bands will always buy top of the range instruments, but for bands on a budget or for personal use you can’t beat a Wessex.

I won’t pay seven grand, plus for a tuba when a Wessex will do the job."

Stuart Haigh

Find out more yourself

Go to: http://www.wessex-tubas.co.uk/

Stuart Haigh

Stuart Haigh has been playing Bb and Eb bass for nearly 40 years. At 17 he was solo Eb bass with Yorkshire Championship Section Hepworth. He has been a member of over 20 bands, many in the Championship Section including Hepworth, Carlton Main and British Steel.

He is much in demand as a guest player with bands in all sections.

4BR Quiz: Weekly Quiz

NEWS

There’s another great prize to be won with our quiz sponsored this week by Dawsons Music.

Once again there is a great prize from 4BR this week from our friends at Dawsons - as long as you can get your thinking caps on?

Keyboard, DVD & CD

We have a great Casio CTK-230 electronic keyboard, plus the brand new David Childs ‘A Masterclass in Brass’ DVD and Foden’s new CD ‘Patron’s Choice VI’, which includes their live performances from the British Open and National Finals.

Rugby King

With one particular ‘King’ recently leading Eikanger Bjorsvik to victory at the Norwegian National Championships for a record ninth time, and with the Six Nations in full flight in the UK—we thought we had better try and combine the two.

Which famous Welsh outside-half was simply known as ‘The King’?

A: John Barry
B: Barry Island
C: Barry John

Clues:

He was anointed as ‘The King’ after becoming the star player on the famous 1971 British Lions tour to New Zealand and retired aged just 27.

His equally famous scrum-half partner once played cornet in the Gwaun-Cae-Gurwen Band

Closing date:

All answers for this one must be in by midnight on Tuesday 26th February.

Last Winner:

We had a great response to last week’s quiz, with Michael Evans of Crook in County Durham knowing that St Cecilia was the Patron Saint of Musicians.

He wins a box of 9 bottles of fantastic ‘Blue Juice’ valve oil, a cracking youth band arrangement of ‘Waltzing Matilda’, the Black Dyke DVD ‘A History of Brass Bands’ and a trio of CDs from Foden’s, Steven Mead and the Royal Scottish Academy Brass.

Answers
E-mail:

E-mail us the answer at:

Advert: Brass Band Insurance Services

NEWS

Often copied - never bettered. Now you can even get a job with us too...

Brass Band Insurance Services are the leading insurers in the brass band field—looking after your musical instruments on behalf of Aviva insurance.

High quality

We have been providing high quality insurance for brass bands, musicians and military bands for 40 years with the lowest costs and nominal excess to any claims.

Not only do we provide piece of mind—we also provide the most professional service that understands brass banding needs.

Discount

Members of Brass Bands England can also claim a discount when they arrange their band’s insurance needs through us.

We are the original scheme—often copied—never bettered

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

New recruit

In addition we are now looking to recruit a full time assistant at BBIS to be based at our Hayes Middlesex Branch.

So if you think you can combine your understanding of the requirements of brass bands great and small—from Land’s End to John O’Groats, then it could well be the perfect job for you.

Contact:

Please contact:
Karen Davis
Tel: 020 8759 0825
Email:

4BR Quiz: Weekly Quiz sponsored by Ev-entz

NEWS

There’s another great prize to be won with our quiz sponsored by Ev-entz.

Once again there is a great prize from 4BR and our friends at Ev-entz - as long as you can get your thinking caps on?

Juice, music, CDs & DVD

It’s a bit on an eclectic prize this week—with a box of 9 bottles of fantastic ‘Blue Juice’ valve oil, a cracking youth band arrangement of ‘Waltzing Matilda’, the Black Dyke DVD ‘A History of Brass Bands’ and a trio of CDs from Foden’s, Steven Mead and the Royal Scottish Academy Brass to be won.

Patron Saints

With it being a famous Saint’s Day today—we thought we would test your knowledge to find out which of the following is the Patron Saint of Musicians?

A: Saint Saens
B: Ian St John
C: Saint Cecilia

Clues

Inspired musicians as diverse as Paul Simon, Henry Purcell and an early version of the Blue Oyster Cult, but didn’t play for Liverpool in the 1965 FA Cup Final. By all accounts occasionally played the organ though.

Closing date:

All answers for this one must be in by midnight on Sunday 17th February.

Last Winner

We had a great response to last week’s quiz, with Norman Short in Sheffield knowing that was Ron Greenwood who was the beleaguered England football manager when they famously lost to Norway in a World Cup qualifier in 1981, leading to the commentator Bjorge Lillelien unforgettably exclaiming: "Lord Nelson! Lord Beaverbrook! Sir Winston Churchill! Sir Anthony Eden! Clement Attlee! Henry Cooper! Lady Diana! Maggie Thatcher - can you hear me, Maggie Thatcher! Your boys took one hell of a beating! Your boys took one hell of a beating!"

E-mail:
E-mail us the answer at:

Newton brings buzz to Oz youth

NEWS

Euphonium star Byron Newton has been a busy lad both sides of the Tasman Sea.

Former Tredegar solo euphonium player Byron ‘Buzz’ Newton has had a busy start to 2013 after appearing as guest soloist and euphonium/baritone tutor with the first ever National Australia Brass Youth Band (NABYB) and the National Youth Brass Band of New Zealand (NYBBNZ).

In addition he has also started in his new role as solo euphonium, Assistant MD, and Band Coordinator with the Wellington Brass Band.

Flight

Last month Buzz flew to Brisbane then hopped on a train through to Tallebudgera on the Gold Coast where he was greeted by the Musical Director for NABYB 2013, Professor David King.

Buzz told 4BR: "Professor King ran a brilliant course where everyone involved learnt so much from his expertise - including myself. To be involved in the first youth band was something special and the talent in the band was second to none."

Tutor

As well as tutoring the six euphoniums and three baritones, Buzz also performed a mini recital class during the five days of the course, as well as performing, ‘Harlequin’ by Philip Sparke at a trio of free concerts put on by the 44 strong youth band.

On return to his new home in Wellington, Buzz was soon back on a flight to Dunedin to be a tutor on New Zealand’s Youth Brass Band course.

Tour

Directed by Peter Adams, the 33 players toured the South Island visiting Roxburgh, Invercargill and Dunedin.

Buzz performed four solo pieces with the band, including the showpiece, ‘Greek Dance’ from Philip Wilby’s ‘Euphonium Concerto’.

Honour

He added: "It was a huge honour for me to perform with New Zealand’s best young musicians. The course lasted just over a week and included a visit by Dr Robert Childs. The band was really lifted by his arrival, especially as he then conducted two pieces in the first concert.

The band was very fortunate to have him visit. I had to travel all the way to the UK to study with him and David Childs at the Royal Welsh College!"

RASWA link up with Robert Childs

NEWS

Dr. Robert Childs returns to Perth to conduct Royal Agricultural Society (RASWA) Brass at the 2013 Australian Nationals.

As revealed in an interview at the recent Norwegian National Championships in Bergen, Dr. Robert Childs will return to Australia later this year to conduct Royal Agricultural Society (RASWA) Brass at the 2013 National Championship in Perth.

Impression

Both Robert and David Childs left an indelible impression on the band's members when they visited the west coast of Australia late last year, and they are delighted that the former Cory MD and current Black Dyke Associate Director of Music will return and direct them at the event which will be held in their home city.

Amazing

Dr. Alan Lourens, MD of RASWA Brass told 4BR: "It’s an amazing opportunity. Holding the National Championships in Perth will bring some of Australia’s most talented musicians here.

Having an icon of the world band movement in Robert Childs to direct a Western Australian group makes the event even more special."

Unique event

RASWA Brass president Stu Bennion believes this is a unique event in the Australian band movement.

"Never before has a current conductor of the Black Dyke Band conducted at the Australian National Band Championships. To be able to attract him to Western Australia and RASWA Brass places great faith in our band. We are so excited to have him leading us."

Championship dates

The Yamaha Australian Band Championships will be held at the University of Western Australia in Winthrop Hall and the Octagon Theatre from Friday, March 29th to Monday, April 1st.

All Blacks announce tour line up

NEWS

The players chosen to represent the National Band of New Zealand on tour under the baton of Dr Robert Childs later this year have been announced.

The composition of the 2013 National Band of New Zealand that will undertake a domestic tour and trip to China later this year has been announced.

Experience

Auditions led by Musical Director Dr Robert Childs has led to an experienced line up of players, featuring principal cornet John Lewis of Dalewool Auckland Brass and solo euphonium Riki McDonnell amongst others.

Speaking recently to 4BR Dr. Robert Childs expressed satisfaction with the standard of the band and that he was looking forward to leading them on a historic tour to China.

Delighted

Meanwhile, David Dobson, General Manager of BBANZ was delighted that Dr Childs had taken the next step in his relationship with the Association and with the National Band itself.

And it appears the players themselves are looking forward to the experience too, as one added: "I’m naturally delighted and pleasantly surprised to see my name on the list ... I would love to do this tour and have always enjoyed my national band experiences."

2013 National Band of New Zealand

Musical Director: Dr Robert B Childs M.Mus (dist) FLCM ARCM (hons) PGCE
Assistant to Musical Director: Graham Hickman

Soprano Cornet: Colin Clark (North Shore Brass)

Principal Cornet: John Lewis (Dalewool Auckland Brass)

Assistant Principal: Kevin McMorran (Leopard Coachlines Canterbury Brass)
Tutti Solo Cornets: Clyde Dixon (Marlborough District Brass)
Anthony Smith (Alpine Energy Timaru Brass)

Repiano Cornet: Kyle Lawson (Woolston Brass)
2nd Cornets: Matthew Stein (Pelorus Trust Wellington Brass)
Nicholas Garrett (Trust Porirua City Brass)
3rd Cornets: Chris Lawrence (Eastern B.O.P. Brass)
John Sullivan (North Shore Brass)
Graham Hickman (Woolston Brass)

Flugel Horn: Tyme Marsters (Leopard Coachlines Canterbury Brass)

Principal Horn: Mike Ford (Marlborough District Brass)
1st Horn: Bill Vail (Leopard Coachlines Canterbury Brass)
2nd Horn: Mitchell Spence (Pelorus Trust Wellington Brass)

1st Baritone: Steven Booth (The Trusts Waitakere Brass)
2nd Baritone: Ross Gerritsen (Dalewool Auckland Brass)

Principal Trombone: Mark Davey (Pelorus Trust Wellington Brass)
2nd Trombone: Mike Ashton (North Shore Brass)
Bass Trombone: Joe Thomas (Leopard Coachlines Canterbury Brass)

Principal Euphonium: Riki McDonnell (Marlborough District Brass)
2nd Euphonium: Bryon Newton (Pelorus Trust Wellington Brass)

Eb Bass: Gareth Lawless (Dalewool Auckland Brass)
Eb Bass: Billy Middleton (North Shore Brass)

BBb Bass: Leigh Martin (New Plymouth Brass)
BBb Bass: Joel Williams (Woolston Brass)

Principal Percussion Grant Myhill (Pelorus Trust Wellington Brass)
Percussion: Jessica Hix (Dalewool Auckland Brass)
Percussion: Todd Turner (Woolston Brass)

Eikanger set for television documentary series

NEWS

A year long documentary following the players of Eikanger Bjorsvik and their 'demanding genius' of a conductor will soon be aired on prime time Norwegian television.

Current Norwegian National champion Eikanger-Bjorsvik is to be the subject of a far reaching television documentary series on Norwegian National television, starting on Monday 18th February at 8.15pm.

Peak time

Filmed throughout last year, the eight part series has been produced by HRK Hordaland for national viewing at peak time on the NRK1 channel, and has been entitled, ‘Brass Obsessed’ or ‘Korpsfiksert’.

It follows the band’s progress from August 2011 up until the European Brass Band Championships in Rotterdam on May 2012, and focuses on a number of the players to find out how they manage to balance their work, family life and studies, with their commitment to the band as they seek to reclaim the European title under the baton of Professor David King.

Demanding genius

The Australian is described by the producers as, ‘a demanding genius’ with the programme looking at the way ‘rookie’ soprano player, Torstein, working mother, Gyda, professional musician Magnus, the hard working ‘mother figure’ Tone, veteran player Sølvi and baker Fredrik, who just happens to have a brother playing for arch rivals Manger, cope with the demands placed on them as the band prepare for the ultimate banding challenge in Rotterdam.

World unknown

As the producers told 4BR: "Through eight episodes towards the European, we get a glimpse into a world unknown to most people. For those involved, the band is their life.

They cannot imagine living without the constant practice, the rehearsals, the trips and the competing: anything to experience the intoxicating kick you get from being on stage, performing with the others, doing something bigger than you can achieve alone."

Worldwide

It will be possible for all of the world to watch via NRK web pages www.nrk.no