London and SC • Sunday 16, 21:17:45
Championship Section: RESULTS
Test Piece: 'St Magnus' - Kenneth Downie
Sunday 16th March
Draw 2pm
Commences following the Second Section results
Adjudicators: Graham Jones & Stephen Roberts
1. Wantage Silver 'A', 9
2. Friary Guildford, 1
3. Redbridge Brass, 10
4. Zone One Brass, 5
5. Kidlington Concert Brass, 7
6. Staines Brass, 3
7. Aveley & Newham, 8
8. East London Brass, 11
9. Medway, 12
10. Alder Valley Brass, 6
11. Regent Brass, 4
12. Egham, 2
Clacton-on-Sea Co-operative, Withdrawn
London and SC • Sunday 16, 20:34:05
That's all the bands now performed. With the results expected in about a half hour we have time to take in a short comfort break. Not however before suggesting that our top six, in a close run contest, could shape up as follows -
1. Redbridge Brass
2. Wantage Silver 'A'
3. Aveley & Newham
4. Friary Guildford
5. Zone One Brass
6. East London Brass
12. Medway
Theme - Not quite together at the start but continues on well
Var 1 - Could be more whimsical and skitish
Var 2 - Generally safe and some warm sounds develop. Closes nicely
Var 3 - Well controlled playing and some good detail. Leads nicely into euph cadenza which is well played
Var 4 - Nice solo cornet and all flows well
Var 5 - Well directed from the middle and detailed controlled playing continues into Finale where good ensemble work prevails. Reaches a fine ending.
Good solid performance !
11. East London Brass
Theme - A good opening that continues in to the ensemble.
Var 1 - Good attempt at detail and dynamics
Var 2 - Flows well and with feeling
Var 3 - Lively accurate playing - good troms. Euph doesn't quite reach the heights though rich in tone.
Var 4 - Flows well and all links together
Var 5 - Good start and detail continues to shine though
Finale - Again some good detailed playing
A good attempt!
London and SC • Sunday 16, 19:53:18
10. Redbridge Brass
Theme - Perhaps the best opening of the day
Var 1 - Good precise playing, Good sop
Var 2 - Ward rounded playing this
var 3 - Well played throughout and well done euph nicely played.
Var 4 - Warm rich sounds link well and flows well
Var 5 - Neat, precise playing that continues into finale and continues at a pace to a grand finale
Can the last two performances today be even better?
9. Wantage Silver 'A'
Theme - Nice opening and well played
Var 1 - Fine detailed playing, good sop.
Var 2 - Good sop and solo cornet, All flows well and warm sounds
Var 3 - Good dynamics and detail, some fine playig here. Good sop before euph cadenza which is also well played.
Var 4 - This is again well played throughout.
Var 5 - Good lively playing that continues to finale and builds to a rousing ending.
Yet another fine performance and could be a real contender today.
8. Aveley & Newham
Theme - Slight blip cornet and sop but good ensemble sound
Var 1 - Detailed playing
Var 2 - Nice cornet and euph. Rich warm sounds from the band
Var 3 - Precision playing and dynamically controlled thoughout. Well played euph best of the day so far!
var 4 - All good solo lines
Var 5 - Good precision playing
Finale - Again good detail and controlled build up - Good playing this! Continues throughout to a roaring finale chord. Well played!
7. Kidlington Concert Brass
Theme - Good opening from sop and cornets, good ensemble sound follows.
Var 1 - Good precise playing.
Var 2 - Flows together well and nice pause to close.
Var 3 - Good attempt at dynamics and detail. Slight blip in euph cadenza.
Var 4 - Solo lines follow on well
Var 5 - Good lively playing and controlled dynamics
Finale - Builds well and dynamically controlled detail continues to the end.
A well played opener to the second half - Well done
London and SC • Sunday 16, 18:04:56
Section 2:
Results:
Test Piece: 'Chaucer's Tunes' - Dr Michael Ball
Adjudicators: Linda Cole & Lyn Morgan
1. Fulham Brass (J.Ward) *
2. Wantage Silver 'B' (D.Dullforce)*
3. Soham Comrades (J.Murrill)*
4. Epsom & Ewell (J.Smith)
5. Chiltern Hills Brass (G.Davies)
6. Hitchin (C.Patterson)
7. Tilbury (A.Austin)
8. Colchester (D.Maddocks)
9. L.G.B Brass (I.Stewart)
10. Epping Forest (K.Schroeter)
11. Welwyn Garden City (J.Campbell)
12. Hungerford Town (T.Crouter)
13. BAE Systems Brass (J.Crowhurst)
14. Battle Town (J.Penton)
15. St. Sebastian Wokingham (L.Woodward)
16. St. Albans City (P.Littlemore)
17. Chichester City (T.Howard)
18. Fairlop Brass (K.Jordan)
*Qualified
London and SC • Sunday 16, 18:01:48
Championship Section: Halfway Predictions
At the half way point here at Stevenage we would opt for our top three as being:
1. Friary Guildford
2. Zone One
3. Staines
There is a short comfort break currently before we return to the Championship Section with Kidlington Concert Brass.
London and SC • Sunday 16, 17:56:53
Result:
Section 4:
'Three Spanish Impressions for Brass Band' - Alan Fernie
Adjudicators: John Doyle and Mike Kilroy
1. Jubilee Brass (Oxford) (Cliff Sadler), 20*
2. City of Oxford Silver (Steve Sizeland), 17*
3. Brighton & Hove City Brass (Matthew Hackett), 16*
4. Regent Community Brass (John Holland), 11
5. East Coast Brass (Paul Speed), 1
6. Letchworth Garden City (Tim Welch), 3
7. Bletchington Silver (Sheldon Barwick), 4
8. Tadley Concert Brass (Paul Chapman), 7
9. Hadstock Silver (Lisa Jardine-Wright), 8
10. Woodbridge Excelsior (Chris Lewis-Garnham), 9
11. Cottenham Brass (Peter Mackley), 14,
12. Wantage Academy Brass (Nikki Jones), 18
13. Royston Town (Steve Earley), 13
14. Ampthill Town (Chris Benger), 10
15. Abbey Brass (Abingdon) (Robert Tompkins), 5
16. Charles Church Camberley (Robert Cherry), 12
17. Watford (Ian Graves), 6
18. Witney Town (Rhys Owens), 2
19. North London Brass (Patrick Dodds), 19
20. Snowdown Colliery Welfare (Christer Åberg), 15
* Top three bands qualify for National final
London and SC • Sunday 16, 17:47:18
Championship Section
6. Alder Valley (R.Burke)
Theme - Good ensemble that develops well.
Var 1 - Starts well but becomes a little ragged.
Var 2 - Generally played well.
Var 3 - Some good detailed playing and well done Euph.
Var 4 - Nice interation with solo lines.
Var 5 - Detailed playing.
Finale - Generally well played and fine ensemble sounds to end.
A good attempt on returning to the Championship Section - Well Done!
London and SC • Sunday 16, 17:29:30
Championship Section
5. Zone One Brass (R.Ward)
Theme - Safe and sure opening.
Var 1 - Yes. 'Whimsical and Skittish' and oves well.
Var 2 - Flows well and warm sounds.
Var 3 - Some precise playing into the Maestoso and Euph cadenza - shame about the slight blip.
Var 4 - Good solo entries.
Var 5 - Good detailed playing and dynamics.
Finale - Precise playing and dynamic build up to a splendid ending.
Should be up there today!!
London and SC • Sunday 16, 17:23:49
Championship Section
4. Regent Brass (P.Archibald)
Theme - Slight blip but nice sounds and played well.
Var 1 - Becomes a little ragged.
Var 2 - Generally nicely played.
Var 3 - Good details and dynamics. Just a slight blip in Euph cadenza.
Var 4 - Generally safe but again some minor blips.
Var 5 - This proceeds well.
Finale - Good attempt but a little ragged at times, but resolves to fine ending.
A fine, safe performance overall.
London and SC • Sunday 16, 17:08:23
Championship Section
3. Staines (J.Pippen)
Theme - Opening flows well and good ensemble sounds.
Var 1 - Confident playing.
Var 2 - This flows well.
Var 3 - Good detail and playing returning to the theme. Euph cadenza is well played.
Var 4 - Well played soloists.
Var 5 - Good detail and dynamics throughout.
Finale - Precise playing to rousing ending.
A good performance.
London and SC • Sunday 16, 17:00:52
Championship Section:
14. Cottenham:
Picked up after uncertain opening which seemed to lose direction. A delicate waltz led to a bright Fandango, but soloists seemed very nervous.
15. Snowdown Colliery Welfare:
Nicely-judged opening, with confident cornet and euph, whilst horn at the start of the wlatz was the best so far. Little untidy towards the end, and intonation may prove costly.
16. Brighton and Hove:
A reading that had obviously been carefully considered. At times the band seemed to b e only just holding on to their tuning, but should be in contention. Star player: the young percussionist so confidently playing his triangle and a cymbal he could barely see over.
London and SC • Sunday 16, 16:21:34
Championship Section
2. Egham (G.Green)
Theme - Solid opening.
Var 1 - A little ragged in places.
Var 2 - Generally safe - good Soprano.
Var 3 - A little untidy in places but good attempt and lead into Euph Cadenza which is played well.
Var 4 - Generally safe but a few blips.
Var 5 - Good effort.
Finale - Good dynamics.
Overall a good attempt at a very difficult piece - Well done!
London and SC • Sunday 16, 16:03:28
Championship Section
1. Friary Guildford (C.King)
Theme - Good confident opening - warm sounds.
Var 1 - Tidy and precise.
Var 2 - Warm sounds and flows well.
Var 3 - Good detail - Well played Euph cadenza.
Var 4 - Good solos throughout.
Var 5 - Good precision.
Finale - Again good detail and dynamics.
Rousing finale and marvelous ending. What an opener to follow - a musical performance.
London and SC • Sunday 16, 15:34:43
Championship Section
Test Piece: 'St Magnus' - Kenneth Downie
Sunday 16th March
Draw 2pm
Commences following the Second Section results
Adjudicators: Graham Jones & Stephen Roberts
Alder Valley Brass, 6
Aveley & Newham, 8
East London Brass, 11
Egham, 2
Friary Guildford, 1
Kidlington Concert Brass, 7
Medway, 12
Redbridge Brass, 10
Regent Brass, 4
Staines Brass, 3
Wantage Silver 'A', 9
Zone One Brass, 5
Clacton-on-Sea Co-operative, Withdrawn
London and SC • Sunday 16, 15:15:50
Section 2 - Results
Test Piece: 'Chaucer's Tunes' - Dr Michael Ball
Adjudicators: Linda Cole & Lyn Morgan
1. Fulham Brass
2. Wantage Silver 'B'
3. Soham Comrades
4. Epsom & Ewell
Full results to follow.
London and SC • Sunday 16, 15:10:53
Section 4:
11. Regent:
Unusual seating plan: semicircle of cornets, horns to left, troms and basses to right and baris/euphs behind for this very new band. After an uncertain opening they grew more confident, with a positive fandango showing good attention to detail.
12. Charles Church Camberley:
A reading that showed much promise, with some delicate playing in the waltz. In the end though there were too many slips, splts and intonation issues.
13. Royston:
With 4 percussion we saw what had been missing in many earlier performances, especially the delicate writing in the waltz. The reading was well-balanced, but whether it features will depend on how harshly intonation issues are viewed
London and SC • Sunday 16, 14:34:57
Section 2: Prediciton
The final performance has been given here in the Second Section at Stevenage and its been an enjoyable morning with many musical delights.
We expect to see the following bands feature in the prizes today:
1. Epsom & Ewell
2. Soham Comrades
3. Fulham Brass
4. Hitchin
5. Wantage Silver 'B'
6. St Sebastian Wokingham
Results to follow.
London and SC • Sunday 16, 14:31:37
Section 2
18. Chichester City
Intrada - detail not always there but leads into a good Cornet and Euphonium in the Fantasia which continues well. This is a little hesitating at times though. Good detail in the Intermezzo but with the occassional rough edges.
Some nice ensemble sounds in the Carol after a hesitant start.
The Chase gets off to a good start and a good attempt at dynamics. A little untidy at times in the Finale but a safe performance overall.
London and SC • Sunday 16, 14:20:25
Section 4:
7. Tadley:
Attractive sound and the best start yet; full of character with the MD well in control. Slight blip in accell near the end but a contender.
8. Hadstock Silver:
Hard to build an atmosphere when intonation dodgy; Waltz rather more Bierkeller than Spain, with euph lost in overall sound.
9. Woodbridge:
Accurate tuning makes the opening work, despite uncertain entries at times. Nicely paced waltz and fandango. Well integrated reading.
10. Ampthill:
Interesting, darkly atmospheric despite tuning issues; waltz could be lighter; some entries tentative but basses strong. Brashness in the cornets spoils a promising Fandango.
London and SC • Sunday 16, 14:14:31
Section 2
17. Welwyn Garden City (J.Campbell)
Intrada - good detailed playing. Confident playing from Cornet and Euphonium in the Fantasia, some intonation issues as it progresses but some good sounds.
Intermezzo moves along well and good contrasts but a little untidy towards the end.
Carol generally well played and warm sounds to be heard but again intonation suffers at times. The Chase moves nicely into the Finale - overall a few too many blips and intonation issues today.
London and SC • Sunday 16, 13:58:01
Section 2
16. Chiltern Hills Brass (G.Davies)
Another good Intrada and fine ensemble sounds. Fantasia, like others today, perhaps a little hesitant but improves and the Intermezzo moves along nicely and is well controlled throughout.
Carol opens well and continues but with some intonation issues - nice close.
The Chase works well and has a good lead into the Finale.
London and SC • Sunday 16, 13:42:53
Section 2
15. Epsom & Ewell Silver
Good, confident playing in the Intrada with good detail. Fantasia improves and there is again some fine playing which continues into the Intermezzo with good dynamics and flowing music.
Good ensemble sounds in the Carol and nice closing. The Chase has the 'aggressive and unrelenting' feel to it - good Soprano and good Finale to a performance that should be among the prizes today.
London and SC • Sunday 16, 13:32:30
Section 2
14. Wantage Silver 'B'
Good confident playing and good sounds from this young band. Perhaps the most confident Cornet and Euphonium of the day so far in Fantasia. Soprano the icing on the cake! Good detail in the Intermezzo and warm sounds at 30.
Carol well played and good dynamics. Controlled playing in the Chase continues to a rousing Finale.
A fine performance from the Wantage Phenomenon!
London and SC • Sunday 16, 13:10:11
Section 2
13. Colchester
Intrada played well and good detail. Fantasia has some nice moments and good ensemble sound aided by Soprano.
Intermezzo generally well played. The Carol has some good dynamics but somewhat hesitant at times but nice closing before the Chase which starts boldly and continues to a fine Finale.
London and SC • Sunday 16, 12:56:00
Section 2
12. Epping Forest (K.Schroeter)
Intrada has good attempt at detail and Fantasia flows well and improves as it progresses.
Good dynamics in the Intermezzo and all is under control with good contrasts but a little ragged towards the end. Intonation suffers a little in the Carol but improves.
Chase could be a little more aggressive but is controlled and the Finale starts and ends well.
London and SC • Sunday 16, 12:45:13
Section 4:
4. Bletchington Silver:
Rather bland, despite attempts at dynamics in Waltz. Tuning at times more like Clochmerle than Spain.
5. Abbey Brass:
MD impresses - knows what he wants, but clashes in intonation between top and middle detract. Waltz picked up after untidy start.
6. Watford:
2 percussion working hard; first section marred by tuning in quiet passages; co-ordination and balance a problem
London and SC • Sunday 16, 12:38:00
Section 2
11. Fulham Brass (J.Ward)
Good Intrada with attention to dynamics and good confident playing from Cornet and Euphonium in the Fantasia. Confident, bold playing leading into the Intermezzo, which is well controlled and moved along nicely.
Good ensemble sounds in the Carol and dynamics observed and closes well.
A well controlled Chase and good introduction to the Finale. A good overall performance.
London and SC • Sunday 16, 12:24:09
Section 4:
1. East Coast Brass:
Nicely sustained at start: uncertainty in waltz from cornets; slips and intonation problems.
2. Witney Town Band:
Only two basses, but worked hard; intonation a problem but good attempts at quiet playing
3. Letchworth Garden City:
Young band, especially cornets and troms, but very colourful and atmospheric reading. Best so far.
London and SC • Sunday 16, 12:23:26
Section 2
10. Tilbury (A. Austin)
Good confident opening and the Intrada continues well throughout and into the Fantasia which closes well. A controlled Intermezzo and good contrast.
The Carol has its moments and is sometimes hesitant but some good ensemble sounds. Good 'aggressive and unrelenting' Chase and the band plays this and the Finale well.
The peformance improved as it went along.
London and SC • Sunday 16, 11:56:40
Section 2: Halfway Prediction
We have reached the halfway mark here in Stevenage in what has been so far a close call of performances.
Our top three performances so far though are as follows:
1. Soham Comrades
2. Hitchin
3. St. Sebastian Wokingham
With these three bands potentially being interchangeable for their positions.
London and SC • Sunday 16, 11:55:29
Section 2
9. L.G.B Brass (I.Stewart)
Intrada - good opening and ensemble sound with good detail. The Fantasia flows well and good Soprano along with Cornet and Euphonium. Intermezzo shows well controlled playing.
Good dynamics in the Carol and nice Soprano to close. The MD leads a good Chase and well controlled playing into the Finale and a rousing ending. Good first time outing in the Section.
London and SC • Sunday 16, 11:33:02
Section 2
8. St Sebastian Wokingham (L.Woodward)
Good confident playing in the Intrada and fine ensemble sound. Fine Cornet and Euphonium in the Fantasia . The confident playing continues throughout and into the Intermezzo.
Some fine sounds in the Carol. Well controlled in the Chase and leads well into the Finale. A fine finale to a good all round performance.
London and SC • Sunday 16, 11:21:37
Section 2
7. St Albans City (P.Littlemore)
A good Intrada well controlled. Good Cornet and Euphonium in the Fantasia. Intermezzo has good dynamics - just a few blips and some intonation issues. These also occur in the Carol but nice ensemble sounds.
The Chase starts well and goes into a good Finale. Good number of younger players in the band which bodes well for the future if not today.
London and SC • Sunday 16, 11:11:45
Section 2
6. Soham Comrades (J.Murrill)
Intrada - good solid opening and confident playing. Well done Cornet and Euph in the Fantasia. Good ensemble sound and directed well from the middle.
The Intermezzo continues with fine controlled playing and good attention to detail. Good ensemble and dynamics in the Carol. The Chase again shows fine controlled playing and a good Finale to a well played overall performance.
London and SC • Sunday 16, 11:06:11
Section 2 - Second half of the draw:
Chichester City (Ted Howard), 18
Chiltern Hills Brass (Gary Davies), 16
Colchester (David Maddocks), 13
Epping Forest (Keith Schroeter), 12
Epsom and Ewell Silver (Jack Smith), 15
Fulham (Chris Augustine), 11
Tilbury (Andrew Austin), 10
Wantage Silver 'B' (Danny Dullforce), 14
Welwyn Garden City (John Campbell), 17
London and SC • Sunday 16, 11:00:00
Section 2
5. Hitchin (C.Patterson)
Intrada - Good opening with controlled playing and dynamics, continued with fine Cornet and Euphonium into the Fantasia. Again, the Intermezzo shows good control and dynamics with fine close and opening to the Carol, which flows well with good ensemble sound.
The Chase works well and good entrance to the Finale.
Overall a well controlled performance which could do well today.
London and SC • Sunday 16, 10:55:02
Section 4:
'Three Spanish Impressions for Brass Band' - Alan Fernie
Sunday 16th March
Main Concert Hall
split Draws: 10.00am and 12 noon
Commence: 11.00am
Adjudicators: John Doyle and Mike Kilroy
First half of the draw:
Abbey Brass (Abingdon) (Robert Tompkins), 5
Ampthill Town (Chris Benger), 10
Bletchington Silver (Sheldon Barwick), 4
Charles Church Camberley (Robert Cherry), 12
East Coast Brass (Paul Speed), 1
Hadstock Silver (Lisa Jardine-Wright), 8
Letchworth Garden City (Tim Welch), 3
Regent Community Brass (John Holland), 11
Tadley Concert Brass (Paul Chapman), 7
Watford (Ian Graves), 6
Witney Town (Rhys Owens), 2
Woodbridge Excelsior (Chris Lewis-Garnham), 9
Brighton and Hove City Brass (Matthew Hackett), 16
City of Oxford Silver (Steve Sizeland), 17
Cottenham Brass (Peter Mackley), 14,
Jubilee Brass (Oxford) (Cliff Sadler), 20
North London Brass (Patrick Dodds), 19
Royston Town (Steve Earley), 13
Snowdown Colliery Welfare (Christer Åberg), 15
Wantage Academy Brass (Nikki Jones), 18
London and SC • Sunday 16, 10:49:24
Section 2
4. Hungerford Town (T.Crouter)
Intrada perhaps the best of the day so far. The Cornet and Euph work well together in the Fantasia. Overall dynamics however are perhaps lacking. The Intermezzo works well and there are good contrasts.
Carol singers start well and there are good ensemble sounds throughout. Well controlled in the Chase and leads well into the Finale.
Overall a controlled performance and a fine ending. Perhaps the best so far today!
London and SC • Sunday 16, 10:20:01
Section 2
3. Fairlop Brass (K.Jordan)
Intrada - Could be a little more 'robust and lively'. Nice Cornet and Euphonium in the Fantasia. The Intermezzo flows well but still a few clips.
Good attempt at dynamics in the Carol and good Soprano to close. The Chase is on but not quite together at times - moves well into the Finale and ends well.
London and SC • Sunday 16, 10:04:51
Section 2
2. BAE Systems Brass (J. Crowhurst)
Confident opening in the Intrada. The Cornet and Euphonium work well in the Fantasia. Perhaps more attention to the dynamics is needed in the quieter passages. Intermezzo settles down and moves well.
Carol - has intonation problems and could move better between the sections. The Chase flows well and there is a good link to the Finale which finishes well.
London and SC • Sunday 16, 09:51:47
Section 2
1. Battle Town (J. Penton)
Let Battle commence! Solid start but perhaps a greater dynamic range is needed. The Fantasia flows well and the Wife of Bath is certainly energetic but there are some intonation problems.
Carol - good attempt at dynamics here but things are not always together. A little harsh at times in the Chase. The Finale again is a little ragged but the marker has been set for the day!
London and SC • Sunday 16, 09:11:06
Section 2
Test Piece: 'Chaucer's Tunes' - Dr Michael Ball
Sunday 16th March
Draw 8:30am & 10:30am
Commences at 9:30am
Adjudicators: Linda Cole & Lyn Morgan
First half of the draw:
BAE Systems Brass (Jonathan Crowhurst), 2
Battle Town (Jon Penton), 1
Fairlop Brass (Kevin Jordan), 3
Hitchin (Craig Patterson), 5
Hungerford Town (Tim Crouter), 4
L.G.B. Brass (Ian Stewart), 9
Soham Comrades (Jayne Murrill), 6
St. Albans City (Philip Littlemore), 7
St. Sebastian Wokingham (Lee Woodward), 8
Chichester City (Ted Howard)
Chiltern Hills Brass (Gary Davies)
Colchester (David Maddocks)
Epping Forest (Keith Schroeter)
Epsom and Ewell Silver (Jack Smith)
Fulham (Chris Augustine)
Tilbury (Andrew Austin)
Wantage Silver 'B' (Danny Dullforce)
Welwyn Garden City (John Campbell)
London and SC • Sunday 16, 08:41:12
Good morning from Stevenage, the draws will be posted for Sections 2 and 4 as soon as they become available.
Wishing all bands competing a successful and enjoyable day!
London and SC • Saturday 15, 20:29:31
Result:
First Section:
Test Piece: 'Cry of the Mountain' - Howard Lorriman
Adjudicators: Mike Kilroy and Stephen Roberts
1. Thundersley Brass (Nigel Taken), 10*
2. Sandhurst Silver (Ian McElligott), 13*
3. Ipswich & Norwich Co-op (Ian Johnson), 9
4. Bedford Town (TBA), 8
5. Haverhill (Mark Ager), 2
6. Horsham Borough (Andrew Kershaw), 1
7. Northfleet Brass (Melvin White), 15
8. Becontree Brass (TBA), 6
9. Milton Keynes Brass (Craig Patterson), 12
10. City of Cambridge (Peter Bassano), 11
11. Jersey Premier Brass (Tim Pritchard), 3
12. Littleport Brass (Nigel Bramley), 5
13. Cawston (David Stowell), 14
14. Ware Brass (Philip Littlemore), 4
15. Yiewsley and West Drayton (Chris Cole), 7
London and SC • Saturday 15, 19:56:11
Section 1:
A highly enjoyable contest that certainly showed that the vast majority of the bands here could play this test piece very well.
Lots of different approaches by the MDs but the quality of the playing from so many bands stood out - and that is a great sign for this Area.
We opt for a top three though of the following:
1. Ipswich & Norwich Co-op
2. Thundersley
3. Becontree
London and SC • Saturday 15, 19:51:40
Section 1:
12. Milton Keynes Brass (Craig Peterson)
A good, solid performance here, but perhaps a little too loose to be one of the top contenders today. Much to admire here though and it may more than hold its own.
13. Sandhurst Silver (Ian McElligott)
A wonderfully fully rounded performance his. Solo euph plays so well and the are well controlled and balanced throughout in a rendition that certainly made the music come to life.
14. Cawston (David Stowell)
A good opening, but something goes wrong shortly after. Shame about the errors as this was shaping up to be a good one today. Ends well but still a little loose.
Northfleet Brass (Melvin White)
Yet another performance and so much to be commended. Perhaps a little loose in places and odd bits of tuning grated, but a good one that will once gain get the adjudicator thinking long and hard.
London and SC • Saturday 15, 18:55:36
Section 1:
9. Ipswich & Norwich Co-op (Ian Johnson)
A very strong start - in fact the best so far. Continues in the same style with a solidity and sense of purpose that really makes the music come to life. Right up in the mix for us.n
10. Thundersley (Nigel Taken)
Yet another close contender for Cheltenham here. A brilliant performance from MD, band and especially the solo euph. Tight and well controlled, it also had such passion and power too.
11. City of Cambridge (Peter Bassano)
We are being spoilt here with another strong performance that is well rounded and thought out throughout. Slight intonation issues may cost a possible victory, but another band that has certainly made its mark today.
London and SC • Saturday 15, 18:09:31
Section 1: Halfway prediction:
We have reached the halfway point here in Stevenage in what has been an engaging contest that has already featured a number of well led, purposeful performances that have all tried to capture the drama and excitement of the music.
Out top three though are as follows:
1. Becontree Brass
2. Horsham Borough
3. Jersey Premier
London and SC • Saturday 15, 18:06:47
Section 1:
7. Yiewsley & West Drayton (Chris Cole)
A good overall performance in general but some tuning issues and slips may well hold them back from a prize today. A pity that as this was a reading that sought the character and drama of the compose's inspiration.
8. Bedford Town (N/K)
An admirable tight performance this once settled after an uneasy start. Good efforts from all around the band and when the confidence grew so did the intensity of the musical picture they created. A strong performance yet again, but the start may cost.
London and SC • Saturday 15, 17:27:43
Section 1:
4. Ware Brass (Philip Littlemore)
A little uneasy to start but soon settles well and some real nice clear and precise playing shines through. This was a performance that grew in substance and stature.
5. Littleport Brass (Nigel Bramley)
Another well rounded performance with some really nice detail. A few issues did creep in but nothing too major to blight a well thought out and directed performance that just had a couple of unfortunate moments.
6. Becontree (N/K)
A good solid performance this with much to commend from start to finish. Could well be up there today thanks to the way in which all the individual and ensemble elements came together.
London and SC • Saturday 15, 16:50:58
Section 1:
1. Horsham Borough (Andrew Kershaw)
Horsham open well with clarity and confident playing. Very warm sounds as we move through this performance. Solid overall and so much to commend in an impressive marker.
2. Haverhill (Mark Ager)
Another performance which for pushes the standard that bit further. Some good precise playing on show in a performance that had drama and drive.
3. Jersey Premier Brass (Tim Pritchard)
A nice light and precise performance - not as dark or dramatic as the others so far. Plenty of detail and much to admire in this take on the piece though - a very different and engaging approach that may make a mark if it tickles the judges taste buds
London and SC • Saturday 15, 16:03:05
First Section:
Test Piece: 'Cry of the Mountain' - Howard Lorriman
Saturday 15th March
Main Concert Hall
Draw: 2.15pm
Commence: at conclusion of Third Section
Adjudicators: Mike Kilroy and Stephen Roberts
Becontree Brass (TBA), 6
Bedford Town (TBA), 8
Cawston (David Stowell), 14
City of Cambridge (Peter Bassano), 11
Haverhill (Mark Ager), 2
Horsham Borough (Andrew Kershaw), 1
Ipswich and Norwich Co-op (Ian Johnson), 9
Jersey Premier Brass (Tim Prichard), 3
Littleport Brass (Nigel Bramley), 5
Milton Keynes Brass (Craig Patterson), 12
Northfleet Brass (Melvin White), 15
Sandhurst Silver (Ian McElligott), 13
Thundersley Brass (Nigel Taken), 10
Ware Brass (Philip Littlemore), 4
Yiewsley and West Drayton (Chris Cole), 7
London and SC • Saturday 15, 15:56:24
Draw: Section 3:
Result:
Third Section:
Test Piece: 'Partita for Band' (Postcards from Home) - Professor Philip Wilby
Adjudicators: John Doyle and Graham Jones
1. Grimsdyke Brass (Sharon Broughall), 12
2. Norfolk Wherry Brass (Andy Craze), 14
3. Olney Brass (TBA), 3
4. Oxford Cherwell Brass (Terry Brotherhood), 6
5. Simon Langton Brass (David Cutting),
6. Amersham (Philip Fisher), 7
7. Great Yarmouth Brass (Colin Swaep), 5
8. Betteshanger Colliery Welfare (John Goold),
9. Waterbeach Brass (David Minchin)
10. Hemel Hempstead (Philip Fisher), 1
11. Chinnor Silver (David Pegram), 8
12. Harwich R.B.L. (Roger Jones), 10
13. Bradwell Silver (Brian Keech), 4
14. Hangleton (Richard Baker), 9
15. Cold Ash Brass (Jemma Evans), 15
16. Crystal Palace (Mike Gray), 16
London and SC • Saturday 15, 15:09:28
Section 3:
Our man in Stevenage Adam Whittle has gone for a final top three of:
1. Simon Langton Brass
2. Olney. Brass
3. Betteshanger Colliery Welfare
London and SC • Saturday 15, 15:07:30
Section 3:
15. Cold Ash Brass (Jemma Evans)
A controlled opening with some good playing on show. Just a few too many slips to be up there for us today, but a performance full of merit and style.
16. Crystal Palace (Mike Gray)
A good all round performance this, with no real weaknesses on show. Some intonation issues in places but good in general with plenty to engage the listener from start to finish.
London and SC • Saturday 15, 14:38:25
Section 3:
12. Grimsdyke Brass (Sharon Broughall)
A good effort and everything was well controlled. Just a little heavy for me but still a good performance that kept you interested from start to fish.
13. Waterbeach Brass (David Minchin)
A good effort and some real nice playing. Lacked dynamic contrast in places and balance, but overall a solid performance that could more than hold its own.
14. Norfolk Wherry Brass (Andy Craze)
A very controlled performance with good clarity for the most part throughout. Little slips damaged the flow in places but another fine performance and one to keep an eye on.
London and SC • Saturday 15, 14:33:08
Section 3:
9. Hangleton (Richard Baker)
A good solid performance again with plenty to admire. Dynamics aren't up to that of some others today but a good job well done.
10. Harwich RBL (Roger Jones)
Some real good stuff in the first three movements with just the last seeming to trip up in places damaging the flow. Much to commend here though
11. Simon Langton Brass (Dave Cutting)
A nice performance from all corners of the band this. Controlled and melodic throughout with a great dynamic range. Could be up there for us today.
London and SC • Saturday 15, 12:48:43
Section 3: Half way prediction:
Our man in Stevenage has gone for a top three so far of:
1. Olney
2. Betteshanger Colliery
3. Oxford Cherwell Brass
It's been enjoyable stuff, with the promise of more to come.
London and SC • Saturday 15, 12:31:50
Section 3:
7. Amersham (Philip Fisher)
A great band sound and bright playing produces such good clarity. Perhaps a little loose before close but great stuff this - very enjoyable.
8. Chinnor (David Pegram)
The opening lacks a little drive for us but the clarity is good. Perhaps the odd slip and a little overblown in places but a good show nonetheless.
London and SC • Saturday 15, 12:01:15
Section 3:
4. Bradwell (Brian Keech)
A well controlled and solid performance throughout. Dynamics work well in quiet sections and young players lead the way on sop and timp. A good one this - plenty to enjoy
5. Great Yarmouth (Colin Swaep)
A little loose in places, but some good clarity and band sound when settled. Loses flow at time but there was good playing in each section of a solid overall performance.
6. Oxford Cherwell Brass (Terry Brotherhood)
A good band sound and articulation bought out some solid and very tidy playing. The different moods were created well if perhaps a little overblown at times.
London and SC • Saturday 15, 11:42:26
Section 3:
Adam Whittle is our man at Stevenage and is enjoying the entertainment provided by the bands in the Third Section this morning.
They are getting through the performances at a fair lick too, and we will be posting our comments in groups of three so you can see what we think as the contest progresses.
London and SC • Saturday 15, 11:05:15
Section 3:
1. Hemel Hempstead (Philip Fisher)
A good performance and nice solo work. Loses clarity and flow in places with a few struggles, but a good marker set.
2. Betteshanger Colliery Welfare (John Goold)
A solid performance and nice solo work (especially solo cornet). Wide dynamic range on show setting the mark higher for us.
3. Olney (N/K)
A good start but a little rushed in places. Settles after movement 1 showing great dynamics and balance to finish well too.
London and SC • Saturday 15, 08:26:26
Draw: Section 3:
Third Section:
Test Piece: 'Partita for Band' (Postcards from Home) - Professor Philip Wilby
Saturday 15th March
Main Concert Hall
Draw: 9.00am
Commence: 10.00am
Adjudicators: John Doyle and Graham Jones
Amersham (Philip Fisher), 7
Betteshanger Colliery Welfare (John Goold), 2
Bradwell Silver (Brian Keech), 4
Chinnor Silver (David Pegram), 8
Cold Ash Brass (Jemma Evans), 15
Crystal Palace (Mike Gray), 16
Great Yarmouth Brass (Colin Swaep), 5
Grimsdyke Brass (Sharon Broughall), 12
Hangleton (Richard Baker), 9
Harwich R.B.L. (Roger Jones), 10
Hemel Hempstead (Philip Fisher), 1
Norfolk Wherry Brass (Andy Craze), 14
Olney Brass (TBA), 3
Oxford Cherwell Brass (Terry Brotherhood), 6
Simon Langton Brass (David Cutting), 11
Waterbeach Brass (David Minchin), 13
London and SC • Saturday 15, 08:25:14
Good morning from Stevenage where the first two of the five sections takes place today.
The Third Section starts at 10.00am followed by the First in the afternoon.
Join us throughout the day and entire weekend for coverage.
London and SC • Thursday 13, 12:09:57
For preview & predictions go to:
http://www.4barsrest.com/articles/2014/1440.asp
