Section 3
Sunday 17, 15:40:56
2017 Champions: BD1
The winning conductor — Lee Skipsey
Champion winning smile for BD1
Best Soloist: Alex Crisp of BD1
Runner-up: Trinity Girls
Third place: Abertillery & District
Fourth Place: Castleton
Fifth place: Shirland Welfare
Sixth place: Newport Borough
Result:
Sunday 17th September
Test Piece: Hinemoa (Gareth Wood)
Adjudicators: Mark Wilkinson and Glyn Williams
1. BD1 (Lee Skipsey)
2. Trinity Girls (Ryan Watkins)
3. Abertillery & District (Joshua Ruck)
4. Castleton Brass (Peter Ryan)
5. Shirland Welfare (Lynden Cooper)
6. Newport Borough (Robin Hackett)
7. Ifton Colliery (Scott Lloyd)
8. Rolls Royce (Derby) (Graham Cardwell)
9. St David's Brass (John Dickson)
10. Irvine & Dreghorn (Helen Douthwaite-Teesdale)
11. Rivington & Adlington (Matthew Whitfield)
12. Oxford Cherwell (Terry Brotherhood)
13. Formby (Louise Hough MBE)
14. Cheltenham Silver (Nigel Galliott)
15. Midsomer Norton & Radstock Silver (Joanne Sykes)
16. Barton Community (Garry Oglesby)
17. West Yorkshire Police (Kevin Wadsworth)
18. Kingsway Printers (Cleethorpes) (Brian Harper)
19. Corsham (Colin Hogg)
Best Instrumentalist: Alex Crisp (Solo Horn): BD1 Brass
Section 3
Sunday 17, 14:51:12
Malcolm Wood's final thoughts and prediction:
'Hinemoa' has been a stern and demanding test for all of the bands. Congratulations go to all the bands for their musical commitment and endeavours on stage.
The percussion section deserve a huge drink (even if its non alcoholic for the youngsters). On the flip side some over exuberant playing could also a few bands out of the frame.
The quality of the bands at the top end really stood out, although the further down the pecking order you go it could be purely personal preference in how they call it in the box. The judges have also earned their fee today for certain.
4BR Prediction:
1. BD1 Brass
2. Trinity Brass
3. Ifton Colliery
4. Newport
5. West Yorkshire Police
6. St David's Brass
Dark Horse: Formby
Section 3
Sunday 17, 14:27:57
19. Rivington & Adlington (Matthew Whitfield)
(North West)
A tasteful opening that doesn't go outside of its comfort zone. The drama of the piece is certainly prominent as is the narrative, but there are a few gremlins taking the edge off things.
The error count and nervousness around the stand is taking the sheen off things which is a real pity. The commitment and desire is there, its just the execution that goes astray at times.
Overall:
A fully committed account that just had a few too many errors — but so much verve and drive.
Section 3
Sunday 17, 14:12:29
Rosin and Hannah are the percussion sisters for Ifton Colliery
18. Ifton Colliery (Scott Lloyd)
(Midlands
A well judged opening with some purposeful musical sounds. There is lots to catch the ear here although there are some tentative moments.
The musical narrative remains and there are some well controlled contributions from all around the stand. This is a real team effort with a special mention for the perc team.
There is great drama coupled with occasional loss of focus which is a real pity. The closing section is controlled with effectively balanced sounds.
Overall:
An intriguing one that had plenty to applaud with this approach and execution.
Section 3
Sunday 17, 13:56:36
17. Formby (Louise Hough MBE)
(North West)
Very bold and colourful opening that does not push itself beyond the limits. The energy is flowing for sure and whilst there is a few scratchy corners, there is a lot to appreciate here.
The percussion section is certainly bringing colours and textures to the performance. It's not discomforting to the ear and adds to that essential colour. The close is not bad at all to round off a good one.
Overall:
Lots to appreciate here in a performance of real merit. Could be on the cusp of the top six.
Section 3
Sunday 17, 13:41:43
Short arms of the law: Kevin Wadsworth conducts with torn tendons in both shoulders...
16, West Yorkshire Police (Kevin Wadsworth)
(Yorkshire)
An opening of restraint which leads into an intriguing section full of colour and textures. The timp player is none other than Ray Payne and he is bringing all of his experience into play. The musical lines are very prominent and it's a rendition full of spirit and warmth.
There are tiny hiccups in the solo lines (a real pity) but it doesn't take the gloss off a performance where the MD has clearly laid out his intentions which are almost being carried out to the letter (of the law).
The close is very well done.
Overall:
A fine show this and one for the judges to certainly give some thought too. Certainly one that could feature about the prize list.
Section 3
Sunday 17, 13:28:51
15. Trinity Girls (Ryan Watkins)
(North West)
At last — an atmospheric opening that really brings the music to the fore (it has been a while). There is great attention here to detail and we here all the drama and tension unfolding in a musically convincing manner.
The narrative remains and there are some excellent solo lines. This is really impressive stuff. So musical and so well controlled.
This is the first performance for a time where detail is coming out that we have not heard for some time. Well done MD. We just sit and listen. Nothing more to add.
Overall:
Right in contention. The first performance (since 5 for us) that really brought the music, colour and textures out in a commanding manner.
Section 3
Sunday 17, 13:12:57
Keeping the ensemble in place....
14, Abertillery & District (Joshua Ruck)
(Wales)
Now then — an atmospheric opening that really captures the attention. That was bold. We hear some great textures and colours and the youngster on timpani is a real trooper. Well done.
The wheels start to come off though as the adrenaline is pumping through the veins in places. Some lovely moments in the solo lines in the lyrical interludes. The close is a real thumper. You can probably still hear the tremors in Wales even now.
Overall:
Not the most convincingly accurate rendition we have heard today — but it had a big musical presence and a boldness that caught the attention.
Section 3
Sunday 17, 12:59:44
Welfare workers get ready to take to the stage
13. Shirland Welfare (Lynden Cooper)
(Midlands)
The assertive opening almost comes off. The energy is certainly flowing and depicts the drama and tension. The solo lines certainly have a presence. Well done cornet and euphonium for your contributions. The narrative line remains prominent.
The percussion section is playing its part and is being careful not to go OTT. The close is effective.
Overall:
It was a different approach from the middle that had restraint, but it still proved to be a challenge on stage that was close to pay rich dividends.
Section 3
Sunday 17, 12:40:53
12. Oxford Cherwell (Terry Brotherhood)
(London & Southern Counties)
An opening of restraint certainly catches the ear. The drama and tension is depicted and there are some convincing solo lines. The percussion is delivering different colours and textures but it is not in your face or OTT.
There is discipline within the ranks here even though not everything goes as planned. Well done the MD for keeping the band focussed.
The narrative line is evident but tiredness is creeping in to close.
Overall:
A performance that was certainly a really good effort but like so many so far, the piece wasn't without its challenges for a very committed band.
Section 3
Sunday 17, 12:34:02
It's the first time back since 1991 for this famous brand and band name....
11. Rolls Royce (Derby) (Graham Cardwell)
(Midlands)
It's a purposeful opening that has a few scratchy moments that just takes the sheen off things. We are hearing the narrative line, but it is by no means blemish free. The solo contributions from cornet and euphonium in particular are gritty determined efforts. Full marks for that.
Full marks also go to the MD for maintaining focus and drive right up until the end. The basics went in but tuning issues were prominent.
Overall:
A well constructed account with the basics in place but tuning issues very noticeable at times.
Section 3
Sunday 17, 12:06:38
Malcolm Wood's half way thoughts
The Third Section bands are really being tested by a demanding piece here in Cheltenham. It really has proved to be a stern challenge to bring out the narrative line and deliver what is on the score.
BD1 lead the way for us after they delivered a terrific performance whilst behind them is Newport, St David's and Castleton.
1. BD1 Brass
2. Newport Borough
3. St David's
Section 3
Sunday 17, 12:04:51
10. Irvine & Dreghorn (Helen Douthwaite-Teesdale)
Scotland
It's a bold, purposeful start from the Scots. The percussion is certainly bringing colour and texture to the piece. There is drama and tension, but some uncomfortable moments within the ranks too.
Not everything is coming off, but the MD keeps everyone focussed and the music flowing. This a real team effort though and they all deserve huge credit. The close is tired.
Overall:
A brave old effort that — on a piece that really tested them.
Section 3
Sunday 17, 11:36:18
We are all behind the MD today.....
9. Barton Community (Garry Oglesby)
(North of England)
A bold start and plenty of commitment and drive in the playing. The percussion really add an extra touch of tension and texture and the story unfolds with drive.
Not everything quite comes off and there are a few moments of uncertainty, but the MD keeps the music flowing and the music has real purpose. Just gets untidy and a little tired to close a brave effort.
Overall:
A band that gave it their all today. Couldn't have asked for anything more for the cause. Well done everyone.
Section 3
Sunday 17, 11:19:15
8. Kingsway Printers (Cleethorpes) (Brian Harper)
(North of England)
A bit of a cautious opening means it takes time before the music settles down. When it does, the narrative and musical lines are good. The solo contributions from the cornet and euphonium are determined efforts.
It's a real test of nerve and character that has stretched them at times today. Tiredness very evident at the end.
Overall:
A performance of sheer blood and guts today. A real test for all concerned, but well done.
Section 3
Sunday 17, 11:02:48
The man in the middle in every sense....
7. Corsham (Colin Hogg)
(London & Southern Counties)
A restrained opening, that has lots to admire, although not everything slots into place as it should do?
There is drama and tension, but the narrative line just needs a touch more clarity at times. The solo lines dig deep to pull things out of the bag. This is a performance of determination and character.
The close isn't bad, but the ensemble is starting to tire as we get to the final assertion of love.
Overall:
A performance that really tested the band and one for which they deserve huge credit.
Section 3
Sunday 17, 10:47:26
6. St David's Brass (John Dickson)
(Scotland)
The Scots deliver a bold atmospheric opening, although some uncertainties creep in with some of the exposed parts.
Great drama and tension is portrayed. There are some tricky, and a cous of sticky moments though which is a real pity. Full marks to the solo lines being delivered today. Superb character on show from the players.
The close isn't totally convincing, but has a bold presence.
Overall:
A performance that offered lots of dramatic potential, but it didn't quite come off.
Section 3
Sunday 17, 10:31:28
The youngsters of BD1 are eager to get going....
5. BD1 (Lee Skipsey)
(Yorkshire)
What a lovely atmospheric opening. So well controlled with percussion that doesn't drown out the ensemble.
This is filled not just drama and tension, but a fine musical purpose. There is terrific energy and colour, whilst the cornet leads with intent, ably supported by other solo lines (well done euph).
The MD is bringing out detail we have not heard so far today. So much to appreciate here. This is a performance just to sit back and listen to. Nothing more to add.
Overall:
A terrific show that had a bit of everything. The clear leader and that will take some beating today. Bravo one and all!
Section 3
Sunday 17, 10:19:34
The Newport front row get ready for scrum down....
4. Newport Borough (Robin Hackett)
Wales
The energy seeps through the veins of the timp player to open. That sets the seen for lots of drama and tension to come to the fore.
It's a bold rendition this, but edgy at times as well. The character of the music is well portrayed and the tasteful expressive solo lines are making a mark.
The closing section has lots to appreciate, but just hints of tiredness creeping in within the ensemble.
Overall:
Not a bad one at all, full of character and purpose. Just had a few uncertain moments along the way though.
Section 3
Sunday 17, 10:00:58
3. Castleton Brass (Peter Ryan)
(London & Southern Counties)
An assertive opening really comes off. Great energy within the ensemble depicts the drama and tension and there is lots to appreciate here. The cornet line is in fine form and the narrative line is unfolding before our ears.
The percussion section is playing its part and bringing out different textures without going OTT
It's a well controlled close. Well done all.
Overall:
Not a bad one at all. Just a few tricky moments within the ensemble but a good all round show.
Section 3
Sunday 17, 09:43:57
Plenty of colour and fun the key with Cheltenham....
2. Cheltenham Silver (Nigel Galliott)
(West of England
Good opening which isn't too heavy dynamically.
The drama and tension is certainly depicted within the music and the solo cornet is a fine lead. We are hearing the narrative line unfold so well here. The percussion section are bringing different textures and colours to the piece in a controlled and disciplined manner.
There is lots to appreciate here with good solo contributions but the ensemble just tires towards the end.
Overall:
One that started well and offered so much potential, but tiredness crept in which took the edge off the close.
Section 3
Sunday 17, 09:31:37
The percussion requirements are exotic... the lemon tree might sound sharp though
1. Midsomer Norton & Radstock Silver (Joanne Sykes)
(West of England)
Terrific timpani is the back drop to an atmospheric opening. You can feel the pain and anxiety of the lost love.
There is tension being created as the story unfolds and the ensemble sound within the band is well delivered. The lovers are reunited again after a battle of drama in the swim. It's like they've never been apart — big glorious sounds.
This isn't a bad performance off number one at all — and certainly not lacking in confidence or belief. The solo contributions are nicely done, with the percussion bringing out the colours.
Overall:
A good solid marker off number one. Special mention to the young timpani player. Great stuff.
Section 3
Sunday 17, 09:16:26
Who will take the prizes today...
Draw:
Sunday 17th September
Test Piece: 'Hinemoa' — Gareth Wood
Draw: 8.15am
Commence: 9.30am
Adjudicators: Mark Wilkinson and Glyn Williams
1. Midsomer Norton & Radstock Silver (Joanne Sykes)
2. Cheltenham Silver (Nigel Galliott)
3. Castleton Brass (Peter Ryan)
4. Newport Borough (Robin Hackett)
5. BD1 (Lee Skipsey)
6. St David's Brass (John Dickson)
7. Corsham (Colin Hogg)
8. Kingsway Printers (Cleethorpes) (Brian Harper)
9. Barton Community (Garry Oglesby)
10. Irvine & Dreghorn (Helen Douthwaite-Teesdale)
11. Rolls Royce (Derby) (Graham Cardwell)
12. Oxford Cherwell (Terry Brotherhood)
13. Shirland Welfare (Lynden Cooper)
14. Abertillery & District (Joshua Ruck)
15. Trinity Girls (Ryan Watkins)
16. West Yorkshire Police (Kevin Wadsworth)
17. Formby (Louise Hough MBE)
18. Ifton Colliery (Scott Lloyd)
19. Rivington & Adlington (Matthew Whitfield)
Section 3
Sunday 17, 09:01:53
Test Piece: Hinemoa
Synopsis
Hinemoa was the beautiful daughter of a great Moon chief, Amukaria.
She had seen Tutanekai, a chief and brave warrior from the island of Mokoia only once, during a tribal gathering; yet she knew she loved him dearly.
Amukaria counselled his daughter to forget this man, whose flute-playing she had heard as it came, soft but clear, across the lake which separated them.
At night she went to the shore and listened where the sound of the flute spoke to Hinemoa giving her courage.
When Tutanekai managed to get a message to Hinemoa, her mind was made up, on the next moonless night she entered the dark, cold waters of the lake, using empty gourds as floats. She was determined to swim the long distance to her lover.
Tutanekai's flute-playing kept her going until at last she reached the shores of Mokoia. There was the great joy when the lovers at last met where the rocks echoed Tutonekai's cry HINEMOA.
This work was used at the 1980 National Brass Band Championships held in Christchurch, New Zealand, during the Centennial Celebrations.
It was commissioned by the New Zealand Brass Band Association to commemorate 100 years of contesting in New Zealand.
Section 3
Saturday 16, 06:03:20
Third Section preview & prediction
It's a legendary tale of love, music and swimming with gourds for arm bands that tests the contenders in the Third Section. But who will enjoy the same happy ending?
http://www.4barsrest.com/articles/2017/1674b.asp
