Scotland • Sunday 13, 20:44:11
Result: Championship Section:
Test Piece: 'Cambridge Variations' - Philip Sparke
Adjudicators: John Miller and Ian Brownbill
1. Co-operative Funeralcare (Allan Ramsay) - 194*
2. Whitburn (Prof Nicholas Childs) - 192*
3. Kirkintilloch (Phillip McCann) - 191
4. Dalmellington (Richard Evans) - 189
5. Bon Accord Silver (Stephen Malcolm) -187
6. Kirkintilloch Kelvin (Charles Keenan) - 186
7. Kingdom Brass (Paul Drury) - 185
8. Unison Kinneil (Craig Anderson) - 184
9. Newtongrange Silver (Dr Keith Wilkinson) - 182
10. Clackmannan & District (Iain Muirhead) - 181
*Top two bands qualify for National Final
Best Cornet: Jim Hayes (Co-operative Funeralcare)
Best Trombone: Whitburn
Best Horn/Flugel: Co-operative Funeralcare
Best Bass Section: Co-operative Funeralcare
Best Bass: Graham Fraser (Whitburn)
Best Euphonium/Baritone: Kirkintilloch
Scotland • Sunday 13, 19:12:47
Championship Section: Overall thoughts....
This is tight at the top. Neither band was flawless but Co-operative Funeralcare and Whitburn delivered accounts that were, at their best, utterly compelling. Whitburn enjoyed a star flugel contribution from Caroline Farren but will Jim Hayes' stunning solo, combined with the bass end firing on all cylinders (and some) see the Glasgow band come out on top?
Behind them, Dalmellington and Bon-Accord may well be in the mix today, with the two Kirkintilloch bands difficult to separate.
Stay tuned!
1. Co-operative Funeralcare
2. Whitburn
3. Dalmellington
4. Bon Accord
5. Kirkintilloch
6. Kirkintilloch Kelvin
Scotland • Sunday 13, 18:54:16
Championship Section:
10. Dalmellington (Richard Evans)
The middle of the band rise out of the texture nicely and it's largely together. Intonation isn't always settled but these are fleeting moments. Molto vivace moves at a fair pelt but it works.
Rebecca Wilson offers up a beautiful cornet solo of the utmost tenderness. It's lavish. Trombone and flugel do well, too. The Vivo offers an opportunity for some posterior wiggling from Richard Evans and the music ticks along.
There's a deep-rooted confidence to this performance, which is especially clear in the final stages. Worked its way into the mix, perhaps?
Scotland • Sunday 13, 18:52:23
Championship Section:
9. Kirkintilloch Kelvin Brass (Charles Keenan)
Chitter chatter bubbles away nicely in the early moments and the MD crafts it nicely. Flugel is effortless in the higher register, ably assisted by baritone. The molto vivace has a spring in its step, with moments of insecurity in the ensemble.
Basses do well in the nimble lines though it gets a little muddy. Cornet fanfare motifs project well. The balance is good, with the sound underpinned by rich basses.
It's a nicely understated cornet solo. Not all the detail comes through at the Vivo and it threatens to hurry but is soon back on track. Focus drops a little and gets a bit messy towards the end, which is a shame.
It recovers well for the final few bars though, rounding off a performance which had much for Kirktintilloch Kelvin to be happy about.
Scotland • Sunday 13, 18:06:18
Championship Section:
8. Clackmannan District (Iain Muirhead)
The ensemble is mostly tight to open. It's a little laboured at times and could do with flowing.
Intonation becomes an increasing factor. Very few principal cornet players are enjoying Sparke's writing today; it's a beast of a solo. Nerves are evident. Flugel does well, though, and Owen Downs on soprano cornet offers a very fine solo contribution.
The semiquavers against the long lines lack some cohesion. A tough one for Clackmannan today.
Scotland • Sunday 13, 18:03:54
Championship Section:
7. Unison Kinneil (Craig Anderson)
Decent opening from Unison Kinneil. Intonation issues arise on occasion.
This is a tough piece to be hit with as the band returns to the top flight for the first time since 2011 and the intentions are not always matched by the execution. The tutti sounds are rich, though.
Soloists embrace Sparke's challenges, with mixed success, but the band enjoys a second wind in the final moments.
Scotland • Sunday 13, 17:19:18
Championship Section:
6. Co-operative Funeralcare (Allan Ramsay)
The occasional suspect entry in the early stages for Co-op but once the cobwebs are shaken off, what a glorious sound. The Vivo flies but the ff stabs aren't together.
Basses are so impressive, with tremendous clarity in the fast moving quaver lines. Jim Hayes offers a stunning cornet solo; so expressive and effortless as it floats into the higher register.
The bass end is the envy of many, driving and achieving such clarity throughout - bass trombone included. That is some team. Intensity cranks up a notch in the final stages as Allan Ramsay serves up a thrilling ending to a performance which, while not flawless, showcased some stunning moments from Co-op.
Scotland • Sunday 13, 17:17:31
Championship Section:
5. Newtongrange Silver (Dr Keith Wilkinson)
Lush sounds in the early stages from Newtongrange. The ensemble is not rock-solid in the middle of the band, with pickups not always speaking together. Percussion does well and brings an extra dimension to proceedings.
Solo cornet starts well and the expressive qualities are clear. The trombone and flugel duet isn't quite together. The Vivo motors along but not all the detail comes across. Soprano does well before 48, with a sweet sound.
The cornet semis don't always line up with the longer lines going across the bar lines, or vice versa.
It is exciting though and Newtongrange can be chuffed with its contribution on its return to the championship section.
Scotland • Sunday 13, 16:30:13
Championship Section:
4. Kirkintilloch Band (Phillip McCann)
A hushed opening from Kirkintilloch, drawing in the Perth audience. Flugel does well, with the odd blemish here and there. Euphonium and baritone line sails along and is rich at 11.
Intonation isn't universal between horns and baritones but it improves. Clinical front row in the fanfare fragments; razor sharp before the sweetest of solo cornet sounds from Lindsay Roxburgh takes over.
The Vivo skips along in what is a purposeful account from a rejuvenated Kirkintilloch Band. No stone has been left unturned here but the meticulous preparation is not always matched by the execution.
The clips do tell, but boy, was it exciting - and a razor sharp ending.
Scotland • Sunday 13, 16:27:46
Championship Section:
3. Kingdom Brass (Paul Drury)
The opening chitter chatter opens up into an expansive sound, with momentary lapses in the tightness of the ensemble. Some glorious euphonium sounds rise out of the texture.
The Lento expressivo is fiendish and it proves to be a sticking point with intonation not settled and some scruffy edges. Some of the intricate lines are a little untidy as the music picks up the pace but the MD paints an evocative picture.
It's a high octane Coda which flows well all the way to the finish line. Not the tightest offering from Kingdom.
Scotland • Sunday 13, 15:55:10
2. Bon-Accord Silver (Stephen Malcolm)
An atmospheric opening, which gives way to a good contribution from flugel and baritone.
It all flows well and the ensemble is pretty tight - just very occasional hints of intonation issues creeping in at the top end. Commanding timpani.
Solo cornet starts so well but loses its way a little. It sounds a little nervy through the fleeting solos but Stephen Malcolm leads them calmly and everything gets back on track. Flugel is very lyrical and does well.
A good showing from Bon-Accord as it looks to improve on last year's third place.
Scotland • Sunday 13, 15:53:08
Championship Section:
1. Whitburn (Prof Nicholas Childs)
Faint chitter-chatter from cornets gives way to a rich chorale. Beautiful flugelhorn solo, with trombones ably supporting. Some creative reworking but the playing is terrific. Really opens out to gigantic proportions at its biggest.
The section work is so tight and impressive. There are just the slightest moments where the shine comes off a tad; tenor troms' intonation in the high register an example where it lost a touch of refinement in some of the closing stages. But these are small margins - there is so much to admire from a marker of real quality.
Is it enough for the holders to retain the title - and for Dr Childs to continue his impressive run at the Regionals?
Scotland • Sunday 13, 15:51:37
Draw: Championship Section:
Test Piece: 'Cambridge Variations' - Philip Sparke
Sunday 13th March
Adjudicators: John Miller and Ian Brownbill
2. Bon Accord Silver (Stephen Malcolm)
8. Clackmannan & District (Iain Muirhead)
6. Co-operative Funeralcare (Allan Ramsay)
10. Dalmellington (Richard Evans)
3. Kingdom Brass (Paul Drury)
9. Kirkintilloch (Phillip McCann)
4. Kirkintilloch Kelvin (Charles Keenan)
5. Newtongrange Silver (Dr Keith Wilkinson)
7. Unison Kinneil (Craig Anderson)
1. Whitburn (Prof Nicholas Childs)
Scotland • Sunday 13, 15:10:34
Section 4b:
1. Granite City Community Band (Lewis Catto)
A well-balanced programme from a healthy band, which features around 30 players on stage,
Star soloists on euphonium in Highland Cathedral, who play from memory!
Olympic Fanfare and Theme John Williams
Free World Fantasy Jacob De Hann
Highland Cathedral
2. Coalburn Intermediate (Kyle MacCorquodale)
African Funk has a great groove to it. On My Own features Ross Little, on tenor horn, performs with aplomb, while the band demonstrates its breadth of sound in I'll Walk With God. Scottish solo champion and BBC Radio 2 Young Brass Award finalist, Kyle MacCorquodale, then guides the band through a rip-roaring Toccata in D Minor to close.
African Funk Alan Fernie
On My Own from Les Miserables
I'll Walk With God
Toccata in D Minor
3. Leadhills Silver (Teresa Brasier)
The village is the second highest in Scotland, according to compere Alasdair Hutton - and this is a band which is really flying.
The audience in Perth offers a terrific welcome as Leadhills makes its way on to the stage for its debut at the Scottish Championships.
There is much to commend here, with such enthusiasm from the band, which features members of all ages.
Swinging with the Mountain King
Pirates of the Caribbean
Milenberg Joys
Scotland • Sunday 13, 13:08:46
Result: Fourth Section:
Test Piece: 'The Journal of Phileas Fogg' - Peter Graham
Adjudicators: David Thornton and Kevin Wadsworth
1. Brass Sounds Inverclyde (Christopher Mansfield)*
2. Dunfermline Town (Andy Shaw)*
3. Peebles Burgh (Stephen Baird)
4. Newmains & District (Peter Holmes)
5. Penicuik Silver (Stuart Black)
6. Highland Brass (Mark Bell)
7. Newland Concert (Paul McKelvie OBE)
8. Bon Accord Silver 'B' (Jennifer Cook)
9. Stranraer Brass (Yvonne Williamson)
10. Hawick Saxhorn (David Robb)
11. Dysart Colliery (Bruce Fraser)
12. Queensferry Community Brass (James Anderson)
13. Dundee Instrumental (Robert McDonald)
14. Forfar Instrumental (Terence Jackson)
*Top two bands qualify for National Final
Best Instrumentalist: Danny Harrison (cornet) - Dunfermline
Youngest BBb Tuba: Joe Reid (aged 16) - Bon Accord 'B'
Section 4: Final thoughts and prediction:
Two clear groups in the Fourth Section, with several stepping up to the plate in 'The Journal of Phileas Fogg'.
Very few escaped unscathed when it came to playing in tune, together consistently, particularly in the slower corners of Peter Graham's piece, but there were some very exciting, mature accounts, in what was a healthy fourth section, overall.
Of those at the higher end, keep an eye out for Penicuik and Peebles. Behind them, Highland Brass and Brass Sounds Inverclyde could fare well after they did much to impress.
1. Penicuik
2. Peebles
3. Highland Brass
4. Brass Sounds Inverclyde
Scotland • Sunday 13, 13:05:51
Section 4:
13. Queensferry Community Brass (James Anderson)
Queensferry come on stage with 22 players, including percussion. It's full of fun in the early stages, if a little lacking in light and shade.
Horns do well in the Cossack chase and help drive proceedings. Ensemble rocks on occasions in the bullfight though the players do well to recover.
It loses its way in the slower passages, with intonation and ensemble suffering towards the latter stages.
14. Bon-Accord Silver B (Jennifer Cook)
A spirited opening with trombones to the fore. The Can Can is solid with little clips and blips here and there. It's a stately build-up to the Cossack chase, with euphoniums and cornets largely on the same page, intonation-wise.
Discipline in the chase itself is good, as nothing is overdone and the efforts to bring out the dynamic contrasts are clear. Solo cornet does well introducing the bullfight - though it nearly gets him just at the last.
The Lady Stewart's air section is well-balanced and tuneful - not all can say that today, and the MD has worked hard to ensure it remains refined until the very end. A good close to the section.
Scotland • Sunday 13, 12:43:03
Section 4:
11. Penicuik Silver (Stuart Black)
Warm to open and it's tuneful. Percussion is not overdone and adds further colour to the performance.
This is confident playing and dynamics are well handled, bringing the Cossack chase to life. The waltz gently ebbs and flows, leading into a fiery bullfight with bass trombone leading the charge.
Very few bands have been exempt from intonation issues and they creep in to Penicuik's solo moments during the slower, solo sections but it recovers well and the final, tutti sounds are impressive. A strong showing from Penicuik.
12. Dunfermline Town (Andy Shaw)
The early sounds are big, but not entirely in tune. It's full of purpose, though, and leads into a jaunty account from Dunfermline Town.
Spirited stuff in the Cossack chase, if a little rough around the edges. The waltz gently sways and is well directed. Euphonium provides a sumptuous transition into the slower section but intonation foibles take their toll elsewhere.
This section is given a lot of time and it doesn't quite come off. Good intentions, though, and plenty of positives for Dunfermline Town to take forward.
Scotland • Sunday 13, 12:04:22
Section 4:
9. Forfar Instrumental (Terence Jackson)
Not always together in the opening stages but euphs do well in the lead in to the Cossack chase with a confident performance.
It rocks a bit and the intonation struggles to settle. That said, the Lady Stewart-esqe section grows in confidence. Percussion dominates a tad towards the end but it's enthusiastic and full of commitment. Well done.
10. Newland Concert Brass (Paul McKelvie OBE)
Balanced opening and the sounds are good. It's jovial in the early stages and the Can Can is suitably exciting.
The score if well negotiated by the MD, bursting into life in the Cossack chase. Intonation suffers in the low end during the transition into the waltz but it bounces back. Some cornet players have shown real bravado during the solo moment and Karen Heenan, of Newland, is one of them - confident stuff.
The return of the flowing melody is warm and expressive, rounding off a solid showing from Newland, with some mature sounds on display.
Scotland • Sunday 13, 11:35:47
Section 4:
7. Brass Sounds Inverclyde (Chris Mansfield)
Bold opening, with just a hint of intonation fragility. It settles into a great groove, although percussion and brass don't always agree on the tempo.
A strong bass end underpins the sound here. The waltz is well shaped by the MD - the press team in Perth is thinking about taking to the floor (another time, perhaps...)
It's a fiery bullfight which largely hangs together. The Lady Stewart section is well-rehearsed and the band works hard to show off its softer side. Sop is just left out on his own at times.
It grows in the latter stages and the sound is huge to close. It had occasional blips and intonation gremlins but a good account overall.
8. Hawick Saxhown (David Robb)
Neat and tidy from Hawick. It's all in place. The only thing which detracts is a difference of opinion on intonation between cornets and euphs when they play together.
Well done, cornet, in the solo moment, which is mature and confident, as is the bullfight.
It comes a little unstuck leading into the cantabile music but gets back into the swing of things and there are good attempts to find the lighter moments in the score. Intonation issues could take their toll today.
Scotland • Sunday 13, 11:10:25
Section 4:
5. Dysart Colliery (Bruce Fraser)
It's a well-measured opening, with nothing rushed and the sounds are rich and well balanced.
The MD paces it well, which allows the detail comes across. The Cossack chase flows well and it's very rhythmic, with good intonation for most of the time. It's a steady waltz but comes off.
A mature cornet sound in the solo moment. Like some of the other performances, it loses its way a little in the slower section, and sounds like the top end stops blowing on occasion, which is a shame.
They recover well, though, and it's a positive ending.
6. Stranraer Brass (Yvonne Williamson)
Tight opening which leads into a fun Can Can, in which euphoniums capture the excitement well.
Intonation isn't always settled in the Cossack chase but it gets better. The detail is heard here which hasn't always been the case. Some risks taken with the dynamics to open the Lady Stewart section and it takes a while to get going.
It tires as the performance goes on but the players re-focus to provide a strong conclusion.
Scotland • Sunday 13, 10:48:19
Section 4:
3. Dundee Instrumental (Robert McDonald)
Decent opening but some intonation gremlins raise their heads in the early stages. The Can Can is steady and there are good attempts at the nimble lines, which don't always come off.
The build up to the Cossack chase is well paced and nicely shaped by the MD. It's an understated waltz, which fizzes along gently. Only two basses, here, and they are working hard to look after the balance.
Euphonium does well with an expressive transition into the reflective section. Some intonation issues in the top end but a good effort overall.
4. Newmains & District (Peter Holmes)
Good opening on what is a proud day for Newmains and District Band following its resurgence.
This ticks along and much of the detail comes across. It's a bold account from Newmains which doesn't hold back in the Cossack chase. There are some great intentions in the waltz from the MD and nearly everyone turns the corners together.
The bullfight is full of bravado and cornet does well. Lady Stewart-esque moment sees confidence a little, lacking the positivity of the earlier moments as things don't quite speak as intended but it bounces back, symbolising this band's long journey back to making music together again.
Scotland • Sunday 13, 10:25:09
Section: 4
1. Peebles Burgh (Stephen Baird)
A bright opening which flows nicely and has a good sense of pulse to the opening stages.
The Can Can is tight but intonation issues creep into the middle of the band prior to the Cossack chase.
Waltz could have a tad more flow but solo cornet does well in the solo and provides confidence to the rest of the band in the bullfight.
The core sounds in the slow music are good, but some of the nimble lines don't quite come out of the texture. A strong opener to the section.
2. Highland Brass (Mark Bell)
Opens positively and the band is clearly enjoying this under its MD.
Big, well-balanced sounds in the Cossack chase and the waltz is nicely paced, offering a lightness of touch which acts as a pleasant contrast to the material which came before.
Cornet is full of bravado introducing the bull fight - terrific!
The sound just loses its warmth in the top end during the early stages of the Lady Stewart's air section and the last chord is a tad harsh but a good start to the fourth section.
Scotland • Sunday 13, 10:18:07
Draw: Fourth Section:
Test Piece: 'The Journal of Phileas Fogg' - Peter Graham
Sunday 13th March
Pre-drawn:
Commence: 9.30am
Adjudicators: David Thornton and Kevin Wadsworth
1. Peebles Burgh (Stephen Baird)
2. Highland Brass (Mark Bell)
3. Dundee Instrumental (Robert McDonald)
4. Newmains & District (Peter Holmes)
5. Dysart Colliery (Bruce Fraser)
6. Stranraer Brass (Yvonne Williamson)
7. Brass Sounds Inverclyde (Christopher Mansfield)
8. Hawick Saxhorn (David Robb)
9. Forfar Instrumental (Terence Jackson)
10. Newland Concert (Paul McKelvie OBE)
11. Penicuik Silver (Stuart Black)
12. Dunfermline Town (Andy Shaw)
13. Queensferry Community Brass (James Anderson)
14. Bon Accord Silver 'B' (Jennifer Cook)
Scotland • Sunday 13, 06:27:14
Today's action in Perth is in the Championship and Fourth Sections.
2016 Scottish Championships from Perth Concert Hall.
Championship Section:
Test Piece: 'Cambridge Variations' - Philip Sparke
Sunday 13th March
Draw: tbc
Commence: After Section 4B results
Adjudicators: John Miller and Ian Brownbill
Bon Accord Silver (Stephen Malcolm)
Clackmannan & District (Iain Muirhead)
Co-operative Funeralcare (Allan Ramsay)
Dalmellington (Richard Evans)
Kingdom Brass (Paul Drury)
Kirkintilloch (Phillip McCann)
Kirkintilloch Kelvin (Charles Keenan)
Newtongrange Silver (Dr Keith Wilkinson)
Unison Kinneil (Craig Anderson)
Whitburn (Prof Nicholas Childs)
Fourth Section:
Test Piece: 'The Journal of Phileas Fogg' - Peter Graham
Sunday 13th March
Pre-drawn:
Commence: 9.30am
Adjudicators: David Thornton and Kevin Wadsworth
Bon Accord Silver 'B' (Jennifer Cook)
Brass Sounds Inverclyde (Christopher Mansfield)
Dundee Instrumental (Robert McDonald)
Dunfermline Town (Andy Shaw)
Dysart Colliery (Bruce Fraser)
Forfar Instrumental (Terence Jackson)
Hawick Saxhorn (David Robb)
Highland Brass (Mark Bell)
Newland Concert (Paul McKelvie OBE)
Newmains & District (Peter Holmes)
Peebles Burgh (Stephen Baird)
Penicuik Silver (Stuart Black)
Queensferry Community Brass (James Anderson)
Stranraer Brass (Yvonne Williamson)
Scotland • Saturday 12, 20:07:39
Results: First Section:
Test Piece: 'Essay' - Edward Gregson
Adjudicators: David Thornton and John Doyle
1. Tullis Russell Mills (Raymond Tennant) - 190*
2. Bo'ness & Carriden (Charlie Farren) - 189*
3. Bathgate (Anne Crookston) - 188
4. Lochgelly (Paul McKelvie OBE) - 186
5. Newmilns & Galston (Alan Cameron) - 185
6. Granite City Brass (Bruce Wallace) - 184
7. Annan Town (Peter Heyes) - 182
8. Johnstone (Martyn Ramsay) - 181
9. Jedforest Instrumental (Phil Rosier) - 180
10. Dalkeith & Monktonhall (Alex Knox) - 179
*Top two bands qualify for National Final
Best Instrumentalist: Hugh Foster (cornet) - Bo'ness & Carriden
Best Horn: Steve Craig (Tullis Russell Mills)
Scotland • Saturday 12, 19:50:31
Section 1: Opinion and final prediction
Gregson's music has provided a test for all the bands in the First Section. Essay was a mixed bag, with no one really coming out on top with an A Plus. That said, there were several spirited performances, each with their own foibles along the way.
Hard to predict but we go for Johnstone, Tullis Russell and Bathgate could find themselves in the mix - but don't discount Lochgelly.
1. Johnstone
2. Tullis Russell Mills
3. Bathgate
Scotland • Saturday 12, 19:34:54
Section 1:
10. Tullis Russell Mills (Raymond Tennant)
A neat opening from the Fife band, which features former RCS principal, John Wallace, in the back row of the band where he spent time in his formative years.
Soliloquy features quality euph sounds, while Dean Bromage delights in a tender cornet solo - one of the best of the day. There are some great intentions here from the MD, largely backed up by the execution. It makes for a dramatic reading, which sees Soliloquy effortlessly melt away.
Epigram is vivacious and flows well. Has Tullis worked itself into the mix?
Scotland • Saturday 12, 19:22:05
Section 1:
8. Dalkeith & Monktonhall (Alex Knox)
The unison opening isn't quite settled. The middle of the band is strong and makes for a well-balanced sound, while the first movement closes with a flourish.
Soliloquy is tentative but grows in confidence in a solid showing. Epigram trundles along nicely, but isn't as clinical as it could be, growing a group of performances which had their moments today, without really firing on all cylinders.
9. Lochgelly (Paul McKelvie OBE)
Muted entries aren't in tune to open but a good flow develops and flugel does well. This is fun and it skips along nicely.
Soliloquy overcomes some early wobbles and solo cornet does well, just tiring towards the end of the solo. Intonation gremlins threaten to raise their head at times. In full flow, the sound is big and menacing and the dotted rhythms are well disciplined; it's just undone by frailties which creep in from time to time.
Epigram has much to commend but it starts to tire in the latter stages.
Scotland • Saturday 12, 18:48:44
Section 1:
6. Granite City Brass (Bruce Wallace)
Neat and tidy in a well-crafted opening. Its a pacey one, this, but the detail comes across. There's a real purpose and drive to Dialogue, which builds to a thrilling close.
Soliloquy opens well. Cornets sounds a little tired and it lacks the confidence of the early stages.
Epigram opens brightly but it's lost some of the sparkle from the first movement, which is a shame. Another which, at its best, was very good
7. Johnstone (Martyn Ramsay)
Not together to open but those thoughts are soon banished as the band really opens up on Dialogue. Neat flugel moment, (seated beside rep).
It threatens to get a bit splashy in the big moments but closes well. Soliloquy opens with a lush contribution from Jen Crockett, on solo horn. Cornet also does very well, with just the tiniest clip.
Not all the detail comes to the fore in Epigram. It rocks as the small notes are rushed but the MD fixes it.
A Jekyll and Hyde performance from Johnstone, which featured some terrific solo moments, from horn in particular, but left the door open.
Scotland • Saturday 12, 18:20:18
Section 1:
5. Newmilns & Galston (Alan Cameron)
Slightly nervy start to what is a sparse opening in Gregson's score. The tutti sounds are very tight though and it really settles as the performance progresses.
Soliloquy opens with delightful euphonium and solo cornet picks up the baton, with a confident, expressive solo. Epigram has a good sense of poise; nothing is rushed.
Pretty solid from Newmilns. Could the early fragility cost today? Still waiting for a band to really dazzle at the halfway point.
Scotland • Saturday 12, 17:55:35
Section 1:
3. Annan Town (Peter Heyes)
Good attempt at the opening, negotiating the potential pitfalls well. The soliloquy opens with strong euphonium but nerves undo some of the good work elsewhere, where little clips and blips start to detract.
The overall sound is good, and well balanced. Epigram is on the scrappy side to open in what is a frustratingly inconsistent performance from Annan.
4. Bathgate (Anne Crookston)
A well shaped opening. Dialogue is a bit splashy from the top end at the bigger moments.
Soprano does well and some of the neatest playing of the day so far is heard in the nimble, with a very tight ending to Dialogue.
The soliloquy is suitably poignant, with dark, brooding basses. It isn't spotless but it's engaging. Gerry Duggan, on solo trombone, offers a delightfully lyrical contribution to proceedings.
Epigram flows well. Not the cleanest from Bathgate - and the players know it - but one of the leading contenders so far.
Scotland • Saturday 12, 17:52:49
Section 1:
1. Jedforest Instrumental (Phil Rosier)
Bold opening, and well paced by the MD. It all hangs together well, though could perhaps benefit from a lightness of foot in places.
The dotted rhythms aren't always quite as measured as they could be. Good effort in the trombone solo, if a little flat.
This is a decent opener from Jedforest, after its promotion to the first section at the turn of the year. Had its scrappy moments but overall, not a bad way to get proceedings underway.
2. Bo'ness & Carriden (Charlie Farren)
The opening is decent. It just gets a little scrappy while at full tilt. It settles though, and flows well, with a lovely flugel contribution from Hayley Edmond.
The soliloquy shows a touch of nerves from horn but he recovers and solo cornet does well.
Epigram ticks along nicely, with neat cornet interjections. Quality dips at the extreme dynamics but solid stuff in the early stages of this contest
Scotland • Saturday 12, 17:03:55
Draw: First Section:
Test Piece: 'Essay' - Edward Gregson
Saturday 12th March
Pre-drawn
Commence: After results of the Third Section
Adjudicators: David Thornton and John Doyle
1. Jedforest Instrumental (Phil Rosier)
2. Bo'ness & Carriden (Charlie Farren)
3. Annan Town (Peter Heyes)
4. Bathgate (Anne Crookston)
5. Newmilns & Galston (Alan Cameron)
6. Granite City Brass (Bruce Wallace)
7. Johnstone (Martyn Ramsay)
8. Dalkeith & Monktonhall (Alex Knox)
9. Lochgelly (Paul McKelvie OBE)
10. Tullis Russell Mills (Raymond Tennant)
Scotland • Saturday 12, 16:48:40
Result: Third Section:
Test Piece: 'A Cambrian Suite' - Michael Ball
Saturday 12th March
Adjudicators: John Miller and Kevin Wadsworth
1. Campbeltown Brass (Gordon Evans MBE)* - 180
2. Selkirk Silver (Stuart Black)* - 178
3. Tullis Russell Intermediate|(Steven Craig) - 176
4. Buckhaven & Methil Miners (David Neil) - 174
5. Barrhead Burgh (Brian Keachie) - 173
6. Langholm Town (Chris Shanks) - 172
7. Whitburn Heartlands (Chris Bradley) - 171
8. MacTaggart Scott (Kenneth Letham) - 169
9. Tayport Instrumental (Frank Culross) - 168
*Top two bands qualify for National Final
Best Instrumentalist: Euphonium (Campbeltown Brass)
Scotland • Saturday 12, 16:18:40
Section 2: Views and prediction:
Interesting one. Think some of the best was saved until last, with a performance of real quality and maturity from Campbeltown Brass. After that, strong accounts from Langholm and Barrhead, which could figure well today. Don't discount Tullis Intermediate, either.
Prediction:
1. Campbeltown
2. Langholm
3. Barrhead
Dark Horse: Tullis Intermediate
Scotland • Saturday 12, 16:15:48
Section 3:
9. Campbeltown Brass (Gordon Evans MBE)
Soft opening which builds well and is exciting. Soprano does well and the intonation is good.
There is a maturity and with it, a poise in Suo Gan which hasn't always been the case today. Neat contributions from flugel, solo cornet and horn.
Velvety bass sound underpins what is a classy reading. The final section is rhythmic and full of character. There are fleeting intonation issues in the top end but they are gone in a flash.
A fine performance - and a very strong contender today.
Scotland • Saturday 12, 16:13:03
Section 3:
7. Selkirk Silver (Stuart Black)
Quality horn sounds come to the fore in the early stages. There is a good sense of pulse.
Suo Gan is not always together to open but it settles and the soloists do well, giving way to an expressive tutti sound.
Well balanced to allow the important lines to come through, if lacking just a flow. Intonation is good in the muted lines.
The cornet shortage continues, with only two in the front row, but the MD has everything well organised. Well done.
8. MacTaggart Scott (Kenneth Letham)
Opening isn't quite planted, pulse-wise, but it soon settles.
Good, solid full sound but intonation issues from soloists detract - shame, because it takes away from what is otherwise a decent reading from the newly promoted band.
The intonation remains an issue throughout the second section and into the finale. However, it is rhythmic and energetic - just a touch on the brash side in the louder moments. A spirited close.
Scotland • Saturday 12, 14:58:38
Section 3:
5. Buckhaven & Methil Miners (David Neil)
The opening is steady but it hangs together well. Soprano does well, with a little clip along the way.
This performance is underpinned by a rich bass end.
Like some of the previous bands, the performance grows in confidence, particularly in the final section.
6. Langholm Town (Chris Shanks)
Confident and measured to open. Just momentary intonation frailties in the solo lines.
Suo Gan has some great musical intentions, which nearly always come off. Euph sounds a little nervous but does well.
Some terrific dynamic contrasts in the final section. It's tight and exciting, well directed by the MD.
Scotland • Saturday 12, 14:54:53
Section 3:
3. Tayport Instrumental (Frank Culross)
A slightly tentative opening but it settles. Only five cornets on stage with Tayport today - where are they all?
Brave efforts from the soloists, but it really comes to life at the start of the final movement, much more confidently.
4. Tullis Russell Intermediate (Steven Craig)
Atmospheric opening, with risks taken in the lesser dyamics - they come off, too! Has its blips but the MD shapes it well.
Euphonium is warm, rich and expressive. Flugel recovers well after an unfortunate start.
This is an understated performance, underpinned by some classy direction.
Scotland • Saturday 12, 14:31:32
Section 3:
1. Whitburn Heartlands (Chris Bradley)
A steady opening. Occasionally the smaller notes are crushed a little.
It is a little timid but grows in confidence as the performance progresses, with a warm tutti sound evident.
There are occasional moments of intonation fragility but overall, a good start to the section, with this band boasting a terrific mix of youth and experience (some very experienced!).
2. Barrhead Burgh (Brian Keachie)
Light, disciplined opening flows well and the detail can be heard.
The balance is good and soprano does well, with a sweet sound rising to the fore when required,
Only seven cornets on stage here but the MD works to ensure things don't get out of kilter.
There is light and shade too, with the bigger sounds held until required, which is effective. Much to commend.
Scotland • Saturday 12, 14:27:00
Third Section:
Test Piece:'A Cambrian Suite' - Michael Ball
Saturday 12th March
Pre-drawn
Commence: at conclusion of Second Section
Adjudicators: John Miller and Kevin Wadsworth
1. Whitburn Heartlands (Chris Bradley)
2. Barrhead Burgh (Brian Keachie)
3. Tayport Instrumental (Frank Culross)
4. Tullis Russell Intermediate|(Steven Craig)
5. Buckhaven & Methil Miners (David Neil)
6. Langholm Town (Chris Shanks)
7. Selkirk Silver (Stuart Black)
8. MacTaggart Scott (Kenneth Letham)
9. Campbeltown Brass (Gordon Evans MBE)
Scotland • Saturday 12, 13:36:26
Results: Second Section:
Test Piece: 'Mermaid of Zennor' - Philip Harper
Saturday 12th March
Adjudicators: Ian Brownbill and John Doyle
1. Coalburn Silver (Gareth Bowman) - 187*
2. Dunaskin Doon (Gary J Williams) - 185*
3. Arbroath Instrumental (Michael Robertson) - 183
4. Broxburn & Livingston (Kevin Price) - 181
5. Croy Silver (Kenneth Blackwood) - 180
6. Shotts St Patrick's (Andrew Duncan) - 179
7. St Ronan's Silver (Chris Bradley) - 178
8. Perthshire Brass (George D Annan) - 176
9. Renfrew Burgh (Mark Good) - 175
10. St David's Brass (John A Dickson) - 174
11. Irvine & Dreghorn (Helen Douthwaite-Teasdale) - 173
*Top two bands qualify for National Final
Best Instrumentalist: Joe Walters (bass trombone) - Arbroath Instrumental
Scotland • Saturday 12, 13:02:10
Section 2:
4BR Predictions:
It's a close call but we think it will be a close battle for the top two qualification places and the title between these three really excellent bands.
1. Broxburn & Livingston
2. Coalburn
3. St Ronan's Silver
Scotland • Saturday 12, 13:00:26
Section 2:
10. Renfrew Burgh (Mark Good)
The penultimate band of this section take to the stage. Good confident playing from baritone and repiano builds to a strong balanced band sound.
Trombones lead the way with confidence into G. Nicely shaped into M with strong solos from both baritone & horn just a shame the percussion didn't make use of the tubular bells available on stage.
Lovely playing from euphonium and baritones echoed by the cornet section though O. Nice full band sounds from Q. Young man on bumper up stands to play his muted line at R. Well controlled into the vivo.
The odd untidy corner as the band starts to tire through T but nice transition into the closing 6/4 section kept well under control by MD. Having only just moved up the ranks, this solid performance shows that Renfrew are quite at home in the second section.
11. Perthshire Brass (George Annan)
Opening is nicely shaped in the final performance of the section. MD George Annan is enjoying himself as the band bounce their way through the first movement.
Nicely controlled through the slow movement with good playing from soloists. Final movement is well controlled. The moving quavers can be heard from all sections of the band. We are hearing a good dynamic range from the band today as they move into the final straight. Soprano & euphonium show no signs of tiredness in their final solo moments.
A strong finish from Perthshire Brass brings an exciting morning to a close.
Scotland • Saturday 12, 12:48:55
Section 2:
8. Shotts St Patrick's (Andrew Duncan)
A cornet down on the front row and only 3 basses for Shotts today with MD Andrew Duncan. Second movement is beautifully led by MD with great moments from solo Baritone, Solo horn & flugel.
Percussion does well into the vivo but gets a little out of sync in places. Cornets start to sound tired and not together as they build towards the 6/4 but do well to make up for their missing colleague.
A good performance today that maybe just suffered from a few empty seats.
9. Arbroath Instrumental (Michael Robertson)
One less cornet for Arbroath today but a 3rd Bb Bass. First band to have their euphoniums and baritones behind the horns today. Lovely strong bass trombone.
Again cornets suffer from some poor intonation into the slow movement and the odd noisy mute. An unfortunate sticky valve moment for solo baritone but he recovers well. Great solo playing from solo euphonium supported well by baritones. Nice playing at the close of this movement only slightly spoiled by noisy mutes.
Very controlled towards the final chords into CC and bass trombone does well to cover any tiredness on the last note. A solid performance from Arbroath
Scotland • Saturday 12, 11:58:01
Section 2:
7. Broxburn & Livingston (Kevin Price)
Some very enthusiast & bright playing from the cornet section. Confident back row almost steal the limelight from baritones & trombones at G.
Only 5 cornets playing helps keep the dynamic soft at M. Shame rep dropped his mute! Full band plays well and we get to hear more from the strong middle band towards the end of the slow movement.
Some splits creeping in through the vivo but the band manage to hide any signs of fatigue as they power towards the end. A strong performance from Broxburn & Livingston that could see them taking a trip to Cheltenham in September.
Scotland • Saturday 12, 11:54:54
Section 2:
5. Dunaskin Doon (Gary J Williams)
Dunaskin have had a good run over the last few years including a 2nd place finish at Cheltenham in 2014. The band get off to a great start and sound very confident in their opening movement.
Nerves start to creep in as they move into the middle movement. Confidence returns as we reach the Vivo - dynamic contrast allows moving lines to be heard through the band and again a strong lead from snare drum ensures a smooth move into the 6/4 to close.
6. St David's Brass (John Dickson)
We're off on the waves again as band 6 take to the stage. The moving quavers flow nicely but more dynamic contrast would allow the audience to hear more from the middle of the band.
Slow movement sounding confident although the mutes do cause some intonation problems for the cornets. Soloists sound nervous but play well. Strong lead from the front row into the final movement. Sounding a little tired as we reach the end but a tidy finish.
Scotland • Saturday 12, 10:54:23
Section 2:
3. Irvine & Dreghorn (Helen Douthwaite-Teasdale)
The fastest opening we've heard on this piece so far and the band don't always manage to stay together. They settle into the first movement nicely and we hear some nice playing across the sections of the band.
A few nerves into the quieter movement and mutes don't help intonation. Sounding a little tired into the final movement but they rally well for a rousing finish.
Star Player: Solo Euphonium
4. St Ronan's Silver (Chris Bradley)
Steady & rhythmic opening movement. Good solos in slow movement. Solo horn does a good job masquerading as back row cornet?
Beautiful playing from solo euph. Confident percussion helps transition to 6/4. Again great solo from euphonium, well supported by the rest of the section. Nice tidy performance with the odd little slip here and there.
Star Player: Solo Euphonium
Scotland • Saturday 12, 10:51:39
Section 2:
1. Coalburn Silver (Gareth Bowman)
And we're off! Coalburn make a confident start to the morning's proceedings under MD Gareth Bowman.
Great dynamic contrast and balance across the band. The occasional little intonation issues in some off the quieter playing but good dynamic control allows soloists to shine through. With their eyes no doubt set on a return to the 1st section Coalburn have set the bar high for the bands to follow.
Star player(s) 1st baritone may have had the solos but his partner on 2nd provided solid cover on the lower lines. - bravo!
2. Croy Silver (Kenneth Blackwood)
A few empty seats in the middle of the band and only two percussionists for the second performance of the morning. A good opening movement with lovely playing from soprano. Hard going for only one euphonium but he does a good job. A quick rest before heading into the 3rd movement which is driven by the excellent duo on percussion. They handle the move into the 6/4 without a hiccup brining their performance to a confident close.
Star players - Percussion. There might have only been two but they didn't miss a beat.
Scotland • Saturday 12, 09:37:09
Draw: Second Section:
Test Piece: 'Mermaid of Zennor' - Philip Harper
Saturday 12th March
Pre-drawn
Commence: 9.30am
Adjudicators: Ian Brownbill and John Doyle
1. Coalburn Silver (Gareth Bowman)
2. Croy Silver (Kenneth Blackwood)
3. Irvine & Dreghorn (Helen Douthwaite-Teasdale)
4. St Ronan's Silver (Chris Bradley)
5. Dunaskin Doon (Gary J Williams)
6. St David's Brass (John A Dickson)
7. Broxburn & Livingston (Kevin Price)
8. Shotts St Patrick's (Andrew Duncan)
9. Arbroath Instrumental (Michael Robertson)
10. Renfrew Burgh (Mark Good)
11. Perthshire Brass (George D Annan)
Scotland • Saturday 12, 05:47:31
Competing bands at the 2016 Scottish Championships from Perth Concert Hall.
Championship Section:
Test Piece: 'Cambridge Variations' - Philip Sparke
Sunday 13th March
Draw: tbc
Commence: After Section 4B results
Adjudicators: John Miller and Ian Brownbill
Bon Accord Silver (Stephen Malcolm)
Clackmannan & District (Iain Muirhead)
Co-operative Funeralcare (Allan Ramsay)
Dalmellington (Richard Evans)
Kingdom Brass (Paul Drury)
Kirkintilloch (Phillip McCann)
Kirkintilloch Kelvin (Charles Keenan)
Newtongrange Silver (Dr Keith Wilkinson)
Unison Kinneil (Craig Anderson)
Whitburn (Prof Nicholas Childs)
First Section:
Test Piece: 'Essay' - Edward Gregson
Saturday 12th March
Pre-drawn
Commence: After results of the Third Section
Adjudicators: David Thornton and John Doyle
Annan Town (Peter Heyes)
Bathgate (Anne Crookston)
Bo'ness & Carriden (Charlie Farren)
Dalkeith & Monktonhall (Alex Knox)
Granite City Brass (Bruce Wallace)
Jedforest Instrumental (Phil Rosier)
Johnstone (Martyn Ramsay)
Lochgelly (Paul McKelvie OBE)
Newmilns & Galston (Alan Cameron)
Tullis Russell Mills (Raymond Tennant)
Second Section:
Test Piece: 'Mermaid of Zennor' - Philip Harper
Saturday 12th March
Pre-drawn
Commence: 9.30am
Adjudicators: Ian Brownbill and John Doyle
Arbroath Instrumental (Michael Robertson)
Broxburn & Livingston (Kevin Price)
Coalburn Silver (Gareth Bowman)
Croy Silver (Kenneth Blackwood)
Dunaskin Doon (Gary J Williams)
Irvine & Dreghorn (Helen Douthwaite-Teasdale)
Perthshire Brass (George D Annan)
Renfrew Burgh (Mark Good)
Shotts St Patrick's (Andrew Duncan)
St David's Brass (John A Dickson)
St Ronan's Silver (Chris Bradley)
�����
Third Section:
Test Piece:'A Cambrian Suite' - Michael Ball
Saturday 12th March
Pre-drawn
Commence: at conclusion of Second Section
Adjudicators: John Miller and Kevin Wadsworth
Barrhead Burgh (Brian Keachie)
Buckhaven & Methil Miners (David Neil)
Campbeltown Brass (Gordon Evans MBE)
Langholm Town (Chris Shanks)
MacTaggart Scott (Kenneth Letham)
Selkirk Silver (Stuart Black)
Tayport Instrumental (Frank Culross)
Tullis Russell Intermediate|(Steven Craig)
Whitburn Heartlands (Chris Bradley)
�����
Fourth Section:
Test Piece: 'The Journal of Phileas Fogg' - Peter Graham
Sunday 13th March
Pre-drawn:
Commence: 9.30am
Adjudicators: David Thornton and Kevin Wadsworth
Bon Accord Silver 'B' (Jennifer Cook)
Brass Sounds Inverclyde (Christopher Mansfield)
Dundee Instrumental (Robert McDonald)
Dunfermline Town (Andy Shaw)
Dysart Colliery (Bruce Fraser)
Forfar Instrumental (Terence Jackson)
Hawick Saxhorn (David Robb)
Highland Brass (Mark Bell)
Newland Concert (Paul McKelvie OBE)
Newmains & District (Peter Holmes)
Peebles Burgh (Stephen Baird)
Penicuik Silver (Stuart Black)
Queensferry Community Brass (James Anderson)
Stranraer Brass (Yvonne Williamson)
