Wales • Sunday 20, 16:53:16
Gallery: Championship Section:
Championship Section: 1st Place - Tredegar (Ian Porthouse)
Championship Section: 1st Place - MD Ian Porthouse - Tredegar
Championship Section: 1st Place - MD Ian Porthouse with Best Instrumentalist Dewi Griffiths - Tredegar
Best Instrumentalist: Dewi Griffiths (cornet) - Tredegar
Championship Section: 1st Place - MD Ian Porthouse - Tredegar
Championship Section: 2nd Place - Cory (Philip Harper)
Best Basses Trophy : Cory
Championship Section: 3rd Place - Tongwynlais Temperance (Michael Fowles)
Result: Championship Section:
Test Piece: Cambridge Variations (Philip Sparke)
Adjudicators: Dr Robert Childs and David Hirst
1. Tredegar (Ian Porthouse)***
2. Cory (Philip Harper)**
3. Tongwynlais Temperance (Michael Fowles)*
4. Llwydcoed (Chris Turner)
5. Northop (Andrew Berryman)
6. Goodwick (Matthew Jenkins)
7. Tylorstown (Gary Davies)
8. Burry Port Town (Tom Davoren)
***Tredegar qualify for Natinal Final and to represent Wales at 2017 European Championship in Ostend
**Cory pre-qualified for National Final
*Tongwynlais Temperance qualify for National Final
Best Instrumentalist: Dewi Griffiths (cornet) - Tredegar
Best Basses: Cory
Wales • Sunday 20, 15:59:56
We have a 20 minute concert from the brass band from the Royal Welsh Colege of Music & Drama at the moment before the announcement of the results.
Wales • Sunday 20, 15:56:48
Championship Section: Final round up and prediction:
A contest that almost never managed to catch its breath after a brace of quite stunning performances from Tredegar and Cory to open.
There really is the width of a piece of Bronco paper between them - and it will surely come down to a question of musical taste in the box. It could deservedly go either way - as it was fascinating to hear two such contrasting interpretations. Both were superb.
Behind them a fine effort from Tongwynlais may just the nod from a performance of huge merit from Goodwick - then Llwydcoed and Burry Port.
What a decision for Dr Robert Childs and David Hirst to make though in the box - with Ostend the prize.
1. Cory
2. Tredegar
3. Tongwynlais Temperance
4. Goodwick
5. Llwydcoed
6. Burry Port
Wales • Sunday 20, 15:38:39
Championship Section:
8. Llwydcoed (Chris Turner)
A performance that nearly but not quite managed to gel together as completely as hoped - although the MDs approach to the score was admirably free flowing. Some lovely moments in the solo lines (from Lode Violet on principal cornet in particular), but elsewhere it wasn't quite as safe.
There were still plenty of dynamic contrasts and a fine sense of pace, but it did get a little strident to close. A performance rich of musical substance even if not everything came off technically.
Wales • Sunday 20, 15:16:18
Championship Section:
7. Northop Silver (Andrew Berryman)
We have had some very different takes on Sparke's test piece today - and this was certainly one of them.
A performance of extremes in many ways - especially with tempos. Some great solo lines and solid ensemble, but too often it got ragged and frantic - and you wondered why? High energy, high impact playing that didn't always come off as hoped.
Wales • Sunday 20, 14:54:59
Championship Section:
6. Tongwynlais Temperance (Michael Fowles)
A bold one that - my word it was. Played with confidence and pulsating drive, even though a little frantic at times.
When their tails were up they delivered in spades - with a special mention to the excellent solo cornet and flugel. MD kept the music flowing, and whilst it needed more dynamic contrast it always kept you engaged and interested. Another one in with a big shout of London.
Wales • Sunday 20, 14:28:26
Championship Section:
5. Goodwick (Matthew Jenkins)
What an impressive performance. It started so well and very nearly reached its full potential in a lovely free flowing reading by the MD.
Perhaps needed more dynamic contrast, and it lost focus in the lyrical interlude with some troublesome moments in solo and ensemble lines, but it recovered so well, and had a great drive and pulse all the way to a thumping close. A sniff of London about that.
Wales • Sunday 20, 14:05:14
Championship Section:
4. Burry Port Town (Tom Davoren)
An exciting and colourful interpretation from the MD doesn't always come off in execution, despite some excellent solo leads and a confident ensemble. It gets strident at times as they strain at the dynamic leash and the intonation suffers too, but what a fine solo cornet, tasteful flugel and euph.
Just loses its ensemble balance too often when the blood and adrenaline was coursing through the veins - but still a performance that had a fair bit of heft.
Wales • Sunday 20, 13:42:25
Championship Section:
3. Tylorstown (Gary Davies)
What a tough pair of acts to follow, but what a fine effort from Gary Davies and his rather inspired band.
Confident, carefully managed and cohesive, it was played with confidence and bravura soloists who had great days. Not everything came off and it got a little ragged in places, but that was a performance of real merit and substance.
Wales • Sunday 20, 13:12:17
Championship Section:
2. Cory (Philip Harper)
Well - what did you expect? Cory pull out all the stops in a very different take from their rivals. MD gives this almost a more romantic feel - right from the elongated first note. Superb solo lines and wonderful ensemble, with the pace judged from malleable to maelstrom to close.
Another stunning performance.
This could just be down to a question of taste in the box. So hard to seperate between two exceptional shows.
Wales • Sunday 20, 12:54:40
Championship Section:
1. Tredegar (Ian Porthouse)
What a gauntlet thrown down by Tredegar - with a stunning rendition that was paced and played almost to perfection. Huge amount of detail, colour and precision - with outstanding lead lines and an ensemble cohesion that drew in power and depth all the way to the end.
You have to say that was a stunning performance.
Wales • Sunday 20, 12:16:48
Draw: Championship Section:
Test Piece: Cambridge Variations (Philip Sparke)
Adjudicators: Dr Robert Childs and David Hirst
1. Tredegar (Ian Porthouse)
2. Cory (Philip Harper)
3. Tylorstown (Gary Davies)
4. Burry Port Town (Tom Davoren)
5. Goodwick (Matthew Jenkins)
6. Tongwynlais Temperance (Michael Fowles)
7. Northop (Andrew Berryman)
8. Llwydcoed (Chris Turner)
Wales • Sunday 20, 12:02:14
Gallery: Fourth Section:
Fourth Section: 1st. Place - Phoenix (Luke Jenkins)
Fourth Section: 1st. Place - Phoenix (Luke Jenkins)
Fourth Section: Trio of Winners - Phoenix (Luke Jenkins)
Youngest Player: Sam Howell (aged 9) - Phoenix
Best Instrumentalist: Seamus Gallagher (cornet) - Newport Borough
Fourth Section: 1st. Place - MD Luke Jenkins - Phoenix
2nd. Place- Newport Borough (Robin Hackett)
Winning Conductors - Luke Jenkins & Robin Hackett
3rd. Place - Upper Rhondda (Jayne Thomas)
Result: Fourth Section:
Test Piece: The Journal of Phileas Fogg (Peter Graham)
Adjudicators: Paul Holland and Nigel Seaman
1. Phoenix (Luke Jenkins)
2. Newport Borough (Robin Hackett)
3. Upper Rhondda (Jayne Thomas)
4. Ynyshir (Gary Davies)
5. RAF St. Athan Voluntary (Craig Roberts)
6. Oakdale Silver (Kerry Bowden)
*Top two bands qualify for National Final
Best Instrumentalist: Seamus Gallagher (cornet) - Newport Borough
Youngest Player: Sam Howell (aged 9) - Phoenix
Withdrawn: Oakeley Silver (John Glyn Jon
Wales • Sunday 20, 11:29:04
Section 4: Final round up and prediction
What a cracking contest this has been this morning - packed with intrepid Welsh travelers who have really been inspired by Peter Graham's test piece to produce some great musical vignettes. Jules Verne would have been proud.
The best for us came from the brilliant Phoenix with Newport Borough close behind. Then it's RAF St Athan from Upper Rhondda, Ynyshir and Oakdale.
1. Phoenix
2. Newport Borough
3. RAF St Athan
4. Upper Rhondda
5. Ynyshir
6. Oakdale
6. Ynyshir (Gary Davies)
The last performance of a cracking contest and another that certainly more than held its own thanks to the intelligent direction of the MD that allowed the character of the music to flow. Some lovely little touches and some bold ones too - as the intrepid hero took in the sights and sounds of his trip in some style.
Wales • Sunday 20, 11:12:37
Section 4:
5. Newport Borough (Robin Hackett)
Another impressive performance - this one much bolder and colourful, but still maintaining a neatly captured sense of style and contrast. Solid soloists and ensemble throughout and with plenty of stamina in reserve for Phileas Fogg to consider a quick pit stop and other trip around the globe.
Wales • Sunday 20, 10:55:56
Section 4:
4. RAF St Athan Voluntary (Craig Roberts)
We are really being treated to some cracking performances here this morning, with this latest one full of contrasting styles, fine solo leads, balanced dynamics and neatly chosen tempos.
Just the odds bumps and scraps along the way with intonation and unforced errors, but overall another Phileas Fogg who must have been related to a Welsh Biggles.
Wales • Sunday 20, 10:44:13
Section 4:
3. Oakdale (Keri Bowden)
The MD used all the years of his experience here to help his band produce a balanced, coherent and enjoybale performance. Didn't quite have the verve and drive of their rivals so far, but it was so well thought out. A more refined short weekend trip around the world that.
Wales • Sunday 20, 10:30:29
Section 4:
2. Upper Rhondda (Jayne Thomas)
Another performance rich in character, style and contrast, led with a great deal of common sense by the MD. Some nerves and intonation troubles in places, but lots of fine solo leads - from sop down to tubas and perc.
It seems Phileas Fogg must have relatives in the Ton Pentre area....
Wales • Sunday 20, 10:12:41
Section 4:
1. Phoenix (Luke Jenkins)
No praise high enough for this one - a quite stunning performance of character, style, precision and musicality. Fantastic playing from everyone - from percussion to sop and everyone in between. Bravo MD and the players. The best playing of this piece we have heard anywhere.
Wales • Sunday 20, 10:01:31
Welcome to Wales - as we start what promises to be a compact but enjoybale contest day at the Brangwyn Hall.
We start with a much better arrangement of the National Anthem as well - which yesterday was bonkers.
Despite the Fourth Section test piece taking us around the world, this one is firmly rooted in the Land of My Fathers.
Wales • Sunday 20, 09:56:34
Draw: Fourth Section:
Test Piece: The Journal of Phileas Fogg (Peter Graham)
Sunday 20th March
Commence: 10.00am
Adjudicators: Paul Holland and Nigel Seaman
1. Phoenix (Luke Jenkins)
2. Upper Rhondda (Jayne Thomas)
3. Oakdale Silver (Kerry Bowden)
4. RAF St. Athan Voluntary (Craig Roberts)
5. Newport Borough (Robin Hackett)
6. Ynyshir (Gary Davies)
Withdrawn: Oakeley Silver (John Glyn Jones)
Wales • Sunday 20, 07:50:20
A slightly less hectic day at the Brangwyn Hall in Swansea, with the Fourth Section the apertif to the Championship battle for the honour of representing Wales at the Royal Albert Hall and at the European Championship in Ostend in 2017.
Championship Section:
Test Piece: Cambridge Variations (Philip Sparke)
Sunday 20th March
Commence: After Fourth Section results
Adjudicators: Dr Robert Childs and David Hirst
Burry Port Town (Tom Davoren)
Cory (Philip Harper)
Goodwick (Matthew Jenkins)
Llwydcoed (Chris Turner)
Northop (Andrew Berryman)
Tongwynlais Temperance (Michael Fowles)
Tredegar (Ian Porthouse)
Tylorstown (Gary Davies
Fourth Section:
Test Piece: The Journal of Phileas Fogg (Peter Graham)
Sunday 20th March
Draw: tbc
Commence: 10.00am
Adjudicators: Paul Holland and Nigel Seaman
Newport Borough (Robin Hackett)
Oakdale Silver (Kerry Bowden)
Oakeley Silver (John Glyn Jones)
Phoenix (Luke Jenkins)
RAF St. Athan Voluntary (Alan Bourne)
Upper Rhondda (J. Thomas)
Ynyshir (Gary Davies)
Wales • Saturday 19, 20:23:20
The action in Swansea restarts tomorrow at 10.00am with Section Four followed by the battle for top section honours and invitation to Ostend.
Wales • Saturday 19, 20:10:25
Gallery: First Section:
1st. Place City of Cardiff (Melingriffith) (Nigel Seaman)
1st. Place MD Nigel Seaman - City of Cardiff (Melingriffith)
1st. Place City of Cardiff (Melingriffith) (Nigel Seaman)
Best Instrumentalist: Owain Llestyn (cornet) - Llanrug
2nd. Place Ebbw Valley (Gareth Ritter)
3rd. Place Llanrug (Paul Hughes)
Result: First Section:
Test Piece: Essay (Edward Gregson)
Adjudicators: David Hirst and Paul Holland
1. City of Cardiff (Melingriffith) (Nigel Seaman)*
2. Ebbw Valley (Gareth Ritter)*
3. Llanrug (Paul Hughes)
4. Parc & Dare (Andrew Jones)
5. Markham & District (Matthew Rowe)
6. Pontardulais Town (Paul Jenkins)
7. BTM (Jeff Hutcherson)
8. Lewis Merthyr (Craig Roberts)
9. Blaenavon Town (Jamie Jones)
*Top two bands qualify for National Final
Best Instrumentalist: Owain Llestyn (cornet) - Llanrug
Wales • Saturday 19, 19:40:38
Section 1: Final round up and prediction:
Wales may have led the way in recent years at this level, but even their best this year found 'Essay' at the very top end of their skill sets. Lots of great individual efforts and contributions, but it was lack of quality in the ensemble playing that really showed itself.
It's hard to fathom out why there were so many wrong notes and entries as well as poor intonation at this level - even in Wales...
Ebbw Valley and Pontardulais lead the way for us - neither totally in command of their performances it must be said, but played with such confidence, with City of Cardiff very close behind. They may just nip in. Then it's in the air with Llanrug, BTM and Parc & Dare.
1. Ebbw Valley
2. Pontardulais
3. City of Cardiff
4. Llanrug
5. BTM
6. Parc & Dare
9. Pontardulais (Paul Jenkins)
Just when we thought we had heard nothing to challenge the top two - this one comes along and makes a real impression. Some lovely solo lines (esp solo cornet) and compact ensemble was evident throughout - and although not everything came off it was a performance that made a mark with its understanding from the MD, and it musical flow. A place at Cheltenham beckons?
Wales • Saturday 19, 19:21:37
Section 1:
7. Lewis Merthyr (Craig Roberts)
This found a brave band at the edge of its technical limitations - although musically there was a free flowing pulse to each movement. The unforced error count was high though - and it really cut into the marrow of the piece. A well delivered 'Soliloquy' with tender cornet and sop a feature led into a rather tired sounding 'Epigram'. That was tough going at times.
8. Blaenavon Town (Jamie Jones)
Another brave, battling performance in meeting the transparent technical demands of Gregson's work.
At times they got there - especially though the excellence of the solo cornet and other lead lines, but there must be question marks over the amount of wrong notes in the ensemble in the opening movement in particular. The 'Epigram' sounded very tired, but by then they had given their all.
Wales • Saturday 19, 18:48:12
Section 1:
5. City of Cardiff (Melingriffith) (Nigel Seaman)
About the best interpretation we have heard so far on our travels from the MD - cultured, concise, considered.
It also contained some of the best individual contributions we have heard today as well - especially from the trom, flugel and horn. There were some notable ensemble errors though - including wrong entries that put a dent in the gloss. The 'Epigram' was excellent - complete with resounding horns - that closed a performance of substance even with the niggling blips.
6. Ebbw Valley (Gareth Ritter)
A different set of answers given to the Essay question here - but equally effective. Bold and supremely confident, it was a little brazen in the dynamics at times, but the surge of rhythmic pulse carried things through.
Again - not exactly melancholic or austere in the 'Soliloquy' - but confidently delivered all the same. Lovely close to a movement just in need of more restraint? No troubles with the 'Epigram' played with lucid precision and boldness. Fine stuff - but will that bravura approach cost?
Wales • Saturday 19, 18:10:39
Section 1:
3. BTM (Jeff Hutcherson)
A boldly portrayed rendition - full of confidence. It may not have been the right approach at all times, but it certainly made for a colourful performance.
Some lovely little touches in the 'Soliloquy' from tasteful solo cornet and euph, but the last movement lost focus through its high tempo approach. Recovered well, but it just took the gloss off a little.
4. Llanrug (Paul Hughes)
A very engaging, thoughtful interpretation by the MD, that very nearly came off in glorious fashion. A balanced sense of discourse filtered through in the 'Dialogue' despite the occasional blip, whilst the young principal cornet (just 15 we were told) was superb as such a cultured and secure lead in the austere 'Soliloquy'. Again just a few ensemble uncertainties raised an eyebrow.
A fine 'Epigram' rounded off a performance that very nearly reached its full and substantial potential.
Wales • Saturday 19, 17:37:24
Section 1:
1. Markham & District (Matthew Rowe)
A free flowing account blighted by too many minor unforced errors that eventually bore into the cohesive core of the performance. The untidy first movement lacked balanced dialogue between sections, although a nicely shaped 'Soliloquy' had an austere touch of melancholy - especially with a lovely trom and sop led close. The 'Epigram' lacked that dry spikiness.
Too uneven and inconsistent - but that's been the case with so many heard all round the country this year.
2. Parc & Dare (Andrew Jones)
A very sensible and at times sensitive rendition. Not everything came off and the minor error count was high, but there was balance and discourse to the opening movement and a sense of Vinter inspired melancholy to the 'Soliloquy'.
Just a rather stodgy 'Epigram' which lacked energy took the edge off a well controlled and conceived rendition.
Wales • Saturday 19, 17:13:24
Draw: First Section:
Test Piece: Essay (Edward Gregson)
Saturday 19th March
Adjudicators: David Hirst and Paul Holland
1. Markham & District (Matthew Rowe)
2. Parc & Dare (Andrew Jones)
3. BTM (Jeff Hutcherson)
4. Llanrug (Paul Hughes)
5. City of Cardiff (Melingriffith) (Nigel Seaman)
6. Ebbw Valley (Gareth Ritter)
7. Lewis Merthyr (Craig Roberts)
8. Blaenavon Town (Jamie Jones)
9. Pontardulais Town (Paul Jenkins))
Wales • Saturday 19, 17:02:56
Gallery: Second Section:
1st. Place Thomas Coaches Mid Rhondda (Alan Gibbs)
Best Instrumentalist: Robert Burnett (euphonium) - Thomas Coaches Mid Rhondda
1st. Place Thomas Coaches Mid Rhondda (Alan Gibbs)
2nd. Place - Deiniolen (Lois Eifion)
3rd. Place - Crwbin (Lynne Turner)
Best Percussion: Crwbin
Result: Second Section:
Test Piece: The Mermaid of Zennor (Philip Harper)
Adjudicators: Dr Robert Childs and Paul Holland
1. Thomas Coaches Mid Rhondda (Alan Gibbs)*
2. Deiniolen (Lois Eifion)*
3. Crwbin (Lynne Turner)
4. Abergavenny Borough (Alun F. Williams)
5. Ammanford Town (Glyn Davies)
6. Royal Buckley Town (Lee Skipsey)
7. Melingriffith 2 (Jack Capstaff)
8. Penclawdd (Tony Small)
9. Newtown Silver (Steve Edwards)
10. Ogmore Valley Silver (Alice Jones)
*Top two bands qualify for National Final
Best Instrumentalist: Robert Burnett (euphonium) - Thomas Coaches Mid Rhondda
Best Percussion: Crwbin
Wales • Saturday 19, 16:32:52
Section 2: Final round up and prediction:
A contest of contrasts - from fishy firecrackers to considered catches of the mermaid.
Enjoyable stuff - with plenty of conductors and bands trying to bring the tale to life. It's up for grabs, but Royal Buckley from Abergavenny with Mid Rhondda in third for us. Then two crackers from Deiniolen, Crwbin and Ammanford.
1. Royal Buckley
2. Abergavenny
3. Mid Rhondda
4. Deiniolen
5. Crwbin
6. Ammanford
Wales • Saturday 19, 16:27:07
Section 2:
9. Deiniolen (Lois Eifion)
What a cracking tale full of character, spirit, pathos and then a trawler full of excitement to close - led by an MD who had this mermaid in her grasp and didn't let go from the start.
There were some noticeable balance issues as the enthusiasm got the better of a couple of fishermen, and a few nerves; but it didn't spoil what was a tale told with such a great sense of imagination. May not win but one of the most enjoyable takes on this piece we've heard.
10. Melingriffith 2 (Jack Capstaff)
This one set off at such a rate of knots that you wondered if the mermaid was a turbo charged 'Free Willy' instead. Wow that was frantic! It was all a little unfocused in the church section too - even to the point of wrong notes. The adrenaline was certainly flowing.
Then it was back on the power for a close packed to the gills with breathless excitement. Well that was enjoyably different.
Wales • Saturday 19, 15:50:27
Section 2:
7. Newtown (Steve Edwards)
What a pity this was so inconsistent - as like a decent fishy paella, it was full of tasty little morsals. None ever quite managed to conjeal with others of the same family though - so you never quite knew what was being dished up from one spoonful to the next. At its best it had drive, vibrancy and colour - just not enough of it to get your teeth into.
8. Abergavenny Borough (Alan F Williams)
A mermaid's tale told with a sense of swagger and confident style - despite the clips and untidiness that just marred things a little. It's got a but musically sushi in places - a little raw dynamically and lost balance, but what a great sense of adventerous drive in the final section. It was full tilt with a splashdown like Apollo 13.
Wales • Saturday 19, 15:15:32
Section 2:
5. Ammanford Town (Glyn Davies)
A hard worked, spirited account - not without its intonation problems, but boosted by a fine sense of musicality and some cracking individual efforts. The tuning just took the gloss off the Church interlude and it faded in stamina by the time the two lovers were ready to disappear under the waves. A nearly one.
6. Crwbin (Lynne Turner)
An evocative take on the Piscean love story - full of warmth, lyricism and no end of passion. It was a touch Mills & Boon and untidy in places, but so what? Nobody has quite revelled in the middle section quite like this so far - and it came off so well.
The final drive for the waves had that necessary building drama too - right to splash down.
Wales • Saturday 19, 14:51:57
Section 2:
3. Ogmore Silver (Alice Jones)
A mermaid that wriggled free of the nets - despite some spirited efforts in each of the three movements and a lyrical take on the score from the MD. A pity the intonation just grated a bit too often as the middle section flowed so nicely and the drive to the waves was played with such purpose.
4. Thomas Coaches MId Rhondda (Alan Gibbs)
There were plenty of salty old sea dogs on board for this one - but by heck they didn't half use their experience to fine effect - led by the euph who charmed the cockles off the mermaid in the church.
Controlled and considered, the MD gave the music a subtle sense of character and purpose right to a fine close. Lots to enjoy here in a performance that had their catch in control hook, line and sinker.
Wales • Saturday 19, 14:10:38
Section 2:
1. Royal Buckley Town (Lee Skipsey)
What a cracking performance full of industry, pathos and drama in good measure. Mr Skipesy knows the way to entice a mermaid from her watery lair for sure - with a bold approach full of confidence.
Super euph was a warm hearted lead in the church and the splashdown back to the waves would have made Tom Daley happy. Enjoyable stuff that.
2. Penclawdd (Tony Small)
A more considered approach by the experienced MD, who knew he had more limited resources at his disposal. Bravo to the sop from Royal Buckley who stayed on and played so well - and to the main soloists who gave lyrical accounts of themselves.
Just some errant tuning grated a bit, but it closed with a spirited splash into the waves.
Wales • Saturday 19, 13:55:39
Section 3:
A decision for Crosskeys Silver Band. Go Left or Right?
Just an update from Wales where it has been confirmed that Crosskeys Silver Band was disqualified from the Third Section contest due to a player registration infringement.
The band was aware of the possibility of being disqualified because of this, before they went on stage - and was informed by the contest organisers that following confirmation with the registry of the position, that this may occur.
It is understood that the player concerned was not registered with the band - and the decision was made accordingly before the results were collated. The band was placed last.
It was also unofficially confirmed that the podium or qualification places would not have been affected if the band had been given their unofficial placing by the judges.
Wales • Saturday 19, 13:36:20
Draw: Second Section:
Test Piece: The Mermaid of Zennor (Philip Harper)
Saturday 19th March
Adjudicators: Dr Robert Childs and Paul Holland
1. Royal Buckley Town (Lee Skipsey)
2. Penclawdd (Tony Small)
3. Ogmore Valley (Alice Jones)
4. Thomas Coaches Mid Rhondda (Alan Gibbs)
5. Ammanford Town (Glyn R Davies)
6. Crwbin (Lynne Turner)
7. Newtown Silver (Steve Edwards)
8. Abergavenny Borough (Alun F. Williams)
9. Deiniolen (Lois Eifion)
10. M2 (Jack Capstaff)
Wales • Saturday 19, 13:32:55
Gallery: Third Section:
1st. Place - Rhyl Silver (Keith Jones)
1st. Place - MD Keith Jones Rhyl Silver
Best Instrumentalist: Stuart Parry (cornet) - Rhyl Silver
2nd. Place - Briton Ferry (Jeff Pearce)
3rd. Place - Usk (Jeff Jones)
Result: Third Section:
Test Piece: A Cambrian Suite (Michael Ball)
Saturday 19th March
1. Rhyl Silver (Keith Jones)*
2. Briton Ferry (Jeff Pearce)*
3. Usk (Jeff Jones)
4. Abertillery Youth & District (Josh Ruck)
5. Severn Tunnel (Grant Jameson)
6. Gwaen-Cae-Gurwen (Jeff Hutcherson)
*Top two bands qualify for National Final
Best Instrumentalist: Stuart Parry (cornet) - Rhyl Silver
Disqualified: Crosskeys Silver (Benjamin Atkinson)
Crosskeys Silver was disqualified for a player registration infringement
It is understood that the band was informed of the possibility of disqualification before they took to the stage. The band decided to take to the stage with the player. It was subsequently confirmed that the player was not registered with the band.
Wales • Saturday 19, 12:35:15
Section 3:
Final round up and prediction:
Short and sweet - like a prop forward covered in honey. Lots to enjoy - it was a pity we only had the seven well match bands to listen to. Some intersting interpretations - not all of them 'up and at 'em' in the opening movement for instance. The lullaby was neatly played and the rising lark never got shot down by a farmer's 12 bore either.
Two band stood out for us with Abertillery and District and Crosskeys, although Usk and Rhyl will be snapping at their heels. After that it just fell away with poor intonation a bit of a bug bear, but overall a great start to the weekend in Swansea.
1. Abertillery & District
2. Crosskeys
3. Usk
4. Rhyl
7. Severn Tunnel (Grant Jameson)
A fine effort from what sounded like an inexperienced band. MD was neat and tidy - although the opening could have done with a pinch more Welsh hywl. Lovely sop and cornet were a feature in the lullaby and it all came to a spirited close.
Wales • Saturday 19, 12:21:44
Section 3:
5. Rhyl Silver (Keith Jones)
What a confident, bold defence of their title - a real bit between the teeth to get back to Cheltenham. Lots to enjoy both in the approach and execution too - with a lovely lullaby and spirited close. Some uncomfortable moments to open may just cost.
6. Usk (Jeff Jones)
A mature sounding band gave a rounded, well directed show here. Intonation just rubbed in places, but the musical intent was so well defined in each of the contrasting movements. The 2015 National Champion has made the step up here very well.
Wales • Saturday 19, 12:18:04
Section 3:
We are getting through the bands at a rapid rate here - and good to hear some very different takes on each of the three movements of Michael Ball's work.
A few have gone for it like the 24th Foot at Rourke's Drift in the opening Men of Harlech - all hands to the task - whilst others have done a Bryn Terfel and really sung out the lullaby with tenderness. Not one Tom Jones 'Delihah' yet thankfully. The final movement has been played with a great jink and twist - like Dan Bigger out manoeuvring a clumsy Italian flanker.
Really enjoyable stuff.
Wales • Saturday 19, 12:00:16
Section 3:
3. Briton Ferry (Jeff Pearce)
A more considered approach by the MD on this occasion - but it still brings the music out of the score, even if the opening could have had a bit more Rourke's Drift fizz about it. Lovely solo leads in the lullaby and a spirited close. Fine perc added colour throughout.
4. Gwaun Cae Gurwen (Jeff Hutcherson)
Another rendition cut from the same Celtic cloth - more subdued and reflective. Just a few stutters in the outer movements but a lovely feel to the lullaby led by euph and flugel. A little tired to close but neatly done,
Wales • Saturday 19, 11:26:17
Section 3:
1. Crosskeys Silver (Benjamin Aktinson)
A bravura one to open proceedings - bags of energy, pulse and drive (and that was just the MD).
The lullaby was delicately contrasted before we headed for a roller-coaster ride for home that wouldn't have been out of place at Barry Island. What an enjoyable start - and bravo MD.
2. Abertillery Youth & District (Josh Ruck)
Don't know what they have had in their breakfasts this morning - but the Chancellor would make a packet off the sugar tax here from the MDs. Another hyperactive approach that brings out so much energy, colour and vibrancy from the score.
Got a bit strident in places, but so much character.
Wales • Saturday 19, 11:09:20
The wonderfully fruity murals at Brangwyn Hall
There is a sprinkling of hardy souls dotted around the expanse of the Brangwyn Hall, with its wonderfully fruity (in all senses) murals that would have made even Hilda and Stan Ogden blush.
Meanwhile, the judges are in the box - which seems to have been designed by a committee of architects comprising B&Q, Frank Gehry and the Blue Peter team.
We have also just had a remarkable arrangement of the National Anthem performed too - which no one quite knew which country it was from. Well played - but it could have been anything from Uzbekistan to Iceland. Thank goodness for the chorus - then everyone piled in with the Gwalds....
This could be a quite surreal weekend....
Wales • Saturday 19, 10:58:23
Draw: Third Section:
Test Piece: A Cambrian Suite (Michael Ball)
Saturday 19th March
Commence: 11.00am
In the Adjudicators Box:- David Hirst and Gary Davies
1. Crosskeys Silver (Benjamin Atkinson)
2. Abertillery Youth & District (Josh Ruck)
3. Briton Ferry (Jeff Pearce)
4. Gwaen-cae-Gurwen (Jeff Hutcherson)
5. Rhyl Silver (Keith Jones)
6. Usk (Jeff Jones)
7. Severn Tunnel (Grant Jameson)
Wales • Saturday 19, 09:17:30
2016 Welsh Championships from the Brangwyn Hall in Swansea.
Championship Section:
Test Piece: Cambridge Variations (Philip Sparke)
Sunday 20th March
Commence: After Fourth Section results
Adjudicators: Dr Robert Childs and David Hirst
Burry Port Town (Tom Davoren)
Cory (Philip Harper)
Goodwick (Matthew Jenkins)
Llwydcoed (Chris Turner)
Northop (Andrew Berryman)
Tongwynlais Temperance (Michael Fowles)
Tredegar (Ian Porthouse)
Tylorstown (Gary Davies
First Section:
Test Piece: Essay (Edward Gregson)
Saturday 19 March
Draw: tbc
Commence: at conclusion of Second Section results
Adjudicators: David Hirst and Paul Holland
Blaenavon Town (Jamie Jones)
BTM (Jeff Hutcherson)
City of Cardiff (Melingriffith) (Nigel Seaman)
Ebbw Valley (Gareth Ritter)
Lewis Merthyr (Craig Roberts)
Llanrug (Paul Hughes)
Markham and District (Matthew Rowe)
Parc and Dare (Andrew Jones)
Pontardulais Town (Paul Jenkins))
Second Section:
Test Piece: The Mermaid of Zennor (Philip Harper)
Saturday 19th March
Draw: tbc
Commence: At conclusion of Section Three
Adjudicators: Dr Robert Childs and Paul Holland
Abergavenny Borough (Alun F. Williams)
Ammanford Town (Gary Davies)
Crwbin (Lynne Turner)
Deiniolen (Lois Eifion)
M2 (Jack Capstaff)
Newtown Silver (Steve Edwards)
Ogmore Valley (Alice Jones)
Penclawdd (Tony Small)
Royal Buckley Town (Lee Skipsey)
Thomas Coaches Mid Rhondda (Alan Gibbs)
Third Section:
Test Piece: A Cambrian Suite (Michael Ball)
Saturday 19th March
Draw: tbc
Commence: 11.00am
Adjudicators: David Hirst and Gary Davies
Abertillery Youth & District (Josh Ruck)
Briton Ferry (Jeff Pearce)
Crosskeys Silver (Benjamin Atkinson)
Gwaen-cae-Gurwen (Jeff Hutcherson)
Rhyl Silver (Keith Jones)
Severn Tunnel (Grant Jameson)
Usk (Jeff Jones)
Fourth Section:
Test Piece: The Journal of Phileas Fogg (Peter Graham)
Sunday 20th March
Draw: tbc
Commence: 10.00am
Adjudicators: Paul Holland and Nigel Seaman
Newport Borough (Robin Hackett)
Oakdale Silver (Kerry Bowden)
Oakeley Silver (John Glyn Jones)
Phoenix (Luke Jenkins)
RAF St. Athan Voluntary (Alan Bourne)
Upper Rhondda (J. Thomas)
Ynyshir (Gary Davies)
Wales • Saturday 19, 09:14:58
Good morning from the less than sunny climes of Swansea - where the action kicks off at a much more civilised 11.00pm this morning with the seven bands competing in the Third Section.
The 4BR Editor has managed to wangle his way to cover the event - so will be able to get home for a pint if he's lucky later tonight.
