West of England
Sunday 11, 18:57:03
Goodnight from Bedworth, Perth and Torquay
Last stop is Durham, Stevenage and Swansea
Well, what a weekend that was. Congratulations to all of the winners and qualifiers as you start the fund raising for those trips to the finals.
Our thanks go to the organisers at the contests for all your help this weekend — you are absolute troopers for pulling it all together.
News reports and pictures will appear soon and then its the last weekend of qualifiers.
Goodnight all.
West of England
Sunday 11, 18:22:13
Result:
Championship Section:
Test Piece: Odyssey (Kevin Norbury)
Adjudicators: Alan Morrison & David Roberts
1. Flowers (David Childs)*
2. Woodfalls (Dr Robert Childs)*
3. Camborne Town (Kevin Mackenzie)
4. St Dennis (Darren Hawken)
5. Aldbourne (Dr David Thornton)
6. Filton Concert Brass (Tom Davoren)
7. Lydbrook (Glyn Williams)
8. Verwood Concert Brass (Kevin Smith)
9. St. Austell (David Nicholson)
10. Hyde (Jonathan Lush-Camps)
11. Brunel Brass (Neil Skipper)
12. Lanner & District (Andrew Berryman)
*Qualify for National Final
West of England
Sunday 11, 17:34:01
Championship Section:
4BR Editor's round up and prediction...
A contest that many felt could have been a clear race to the Albert Hall for the pre-contest favourites became anything but as the day wore on here.
Flowers had that extra level of polished class but still had moments when not all was at ease, whilst Woodfalls played to the Bob Childs' contest prescription almost to a tee — again with a few niggles.
Flowers should win, but it's close enough to be wary, with St Dennis the band that could force their way into the reckoning for the Albert Hall with possibly Filton — depending on the musical taste of the judges today.
Solid, well led shows from Aldbourne and Camborne make up our top-six with a dark horse of Verwood.
4BR Prediction:
1. Flowers
2. Woodfalls
3. St Dennis
4. Filton Concert
5. Aldbourne
6. Camborne
Dark Horse: Verwood
West of England
Sunday 11, 17:32:35
Championship Section:
12. Brunel Brass (Neil Skipper)
An untidy rendition to close the contest day — and a pity as there was a well worked, subtly shaped reading on show from the MD.
It had the pulse of Lazarus in places, but it then came to life with brio and spirit and so did the playing.
The central section was played with touching simplicity and thoughtfulness despite the occasional moments of fragility, but the drive for home was played with a growing passion despite stamina just waning like weary penitents on the road to a old shrine.
Just enough left though for a passionate close that drew deep into the reserves but was very satisfying.
West of England
Sunday 11, 17:15:25
Championship Section:
11. Lanner & District (Andrew Berryman)
A considered approach by the MD who knew his resources and how they could be used effectively.
That meant taking a notch or two off the tempi and dynamic, which paid dividends if not quite securing the Catholic indulgences to get to Albert Hall heaven.
Soloists and ensemble hung in there like fruit bats at times, but it was so well musically shaped even if it is fragile.
There is something illicit in the tank to pep up the final journey — like red diesel in the priest's car, but it works even if it takes a while to wind up to full throttle and the thumping climax.
To come
12. Brunel Brass
West of England
Sunday 11, 16:57:32
Championship Section:
10. Aldbourne (David Thornton)
What an eminently intelligent approach from the MD to the whole structure of the score and its delivery.
Not everything came off in execution, but he gave the music time to find a measured pulse and drive even in flight mode. The innermost detail perhaps needed a crisper edge to really capture the clarity.
The central section came and went without quite sending a chill to the marrow, but the final section had you tapping your feet as if your were doing Riverdance in the pews of the local church.
Just enough in reserve for a touch of glorification to close too. Well thought out that.
To come
11. Lanner & District
12. Brunel Brass
West of England
Sunday 11, 16:42:02
Championship Section:
9. Filton Concert Brass (Tom Davoren)
A rendition of vividly drawn characterisation this — neatly skipping a narrow line between high Catholic repentance and a touch of Methodist melancholy.
All bells and whistles (great tuned Perc) to the opening section, played with driven, almost forceful commitment. Touching central section was just scarred by the odd itchy confessional solo scratch, but it flowed with musicality.
Crikey — it went like the Donegal rush from Sunday morning Mass to the pub for a pint of Guinness on the final trek to the heavens, but it recovered its poise and purpose for a super climax that would have sent a thrill up an old mother superior's cassock. Bold stuff that from the MD and band.
To come
10. Aldbourne
11. Lanner & District
West of England
Sunday 11, 16:23:25
Championship Section:
8. St Dennis (Darren Hawken)
What an engaging and thoroughly consistent reading of the score by the MD, implemented with disciple like adherence to its tenets by the players. Different to the rest so far.
Light and lyrical — like hearing a Catholic confession from an opera soprano singer. Just the odd moments when things didn't knit (and one little bar that was curiously tweaked) but had it a sense of persuasive directional travel.
MD in no rush to gain immortal salvation — pacing his way with considered steps ever upward to the Pearly Gates. It built to a glorious close though — finally letting the pent up passion out.
A very different approach — and so well thought out. Bravo. Deserves reward that from the Sunday results pulpit.
To come
9. Filton Concert Brass
10. Aldbourne
West of England
Sunday 11, 15:58:36
Championship Section:
7. Camborne (Kevin Mackenzie)
Like a born again evangelist giving it the full hoots, this was pulpit punching in its musical testimony — fire and brimstone stuff to open.
Just needed a touch of restraint in both dynamic and tempi, but it was vividly exciting if occasionally scratchy.
The central section had some lovely touches as well as some that left an acidic mark on the polish. Great close though.
The pile driver ride for home thumped out the insistent salvation message, but it had a compact ensemble core and enough vocal spirit to reach a triumphal climax to shake your knees. A raw one that but very enjoyable.
To come
8. St Dennis
9. Filton Concert Brass
West of England
Sunday 11, 15:41:41
Championship Section:
6. Flowers (David Childs)
A performance of commanding substance and style — heavy, rich and textured, if occasionally just nagged by some minor clips and snags.
The dynamic range was wide, if contest comfortable, but the detail was admirably sought and brought to the fore. The central section was touching in its passion — played with artistry to its final repose.
Full turbo mode — like an rampaging Irish pack of forwards after garryowen — to close. That was heavyweight beef on the hoof there.
It led to the promised land you felt of a return to the Albert Hall — and even a three handled cup overflowing with celebratory champers to help them alone. Fine stuff that.
To come
7. Camborne
West of England
Sunday 11, 15:25:28
Championship Section:
5. Hyde (Jonathan Lush-Camps)
Another performance that was blighted by the insistence to try and power through at volume and pace.
The frenetic speed to open and the lack of dynamic contrast just submerged the detail. It's was scrappy and incoherent. It's just plonked away like an oblivious Mrs Mills on the old joanna.
MD (conducting without a score) found such a better pulse and style in the central section. There was lyrical suavity about the playing led by lovely cornet and sonorous euph.
The ride for home though just put a clog on the accelerator in Spinal Tap 'up to 11' on the volume dial mode. All that good work once again lost in harsh ensemble work. The triumphal salvation came like a shout from the Rev Ian Paisley. Frustrating.
To come
7. Camborne
West of England
Sunday 11, 15:05:02
Championship Section:
4. Lydbrook (Glyn Williams)
What a pity there was such a high minor error count that finally tarnished a well structured and sympathetic reading of the score from the MD.
Dynamics and tempi had a clarity of thought and contrast, and the middle section flowed sympathetically with a touch of musical meandering.
The ride for home was measured to draw drama and passion, but again those little fragilities just snagged the polish like a bit of grit on a bar of soap against your skin.
When the gates of the choir invisible were approached they opened with powerful exultation to round off a performance that didn't quite match execution with inspiration.
To come
5. Hyde
6. Flowers
West of England
Sunday 11, 14:46:53
Championship Section:
3. Woodfalls (Dr Robert Childs)
An obvious and significant step up in quality here — although not entirely minor error free.
Fine reading by the MD — flowed with coherent tempi and dynamics aided by just those little Bob Childs tweaks that brought detail to the fore.
Super middle section — dynamically safe, but played with a touch of artistry, was classy, whilst the final section built with the type of momentum Jeremy Corbyn would have greatly appreciated to a close that was measured in its magnificence. A quality show that.
To come
4. Lydbrook
5. Hyde
West of England
Sunday 11, 14:31:55
Championship Section:
2. St. Austell (David Nicholson)
A power laden account this — but one that lacked any great degree contrast and subtlety as a result.
The lack of precision and inner detail was marked in the opening section and the tempo made it sound so frenetic. The central section was bravely led by soloists, but again lacked the latent repose.
The final section was cut from the same jib as the opening, so it the obvious enthusiasm sounded overwrought.
The triumphant close was as fervent in acclamation as one of those miracle 'he walks again' moments from an American evangelist preacher. A wowee one if only temporary in salvation. Crowd goes bonkers. Praise be.
To come
3. Woodfalls
4. Lydbrook
West of England
Sunday 11, 14:14:14
Championship Section:
1. Verwood Concert Brass (Kevin Smith)
An exciting rendition to open from a band full of vigour and at times frenetic excitement. MD brought out the initial detail, but it had an edgy feel that at times was scrappy.
The central section flowed, aided by super solo cornet but perhaps needed more repose.
The finale was all higgledy-piggledy Michael Flatterly clippy heeled stuff, but again it got frenetic although there was somethings reserve for a bit of o'irish triumphalism to close and solid marker.
To come
2. St Austell Town
3. Woodfalls
West of England
Sunday 11, 13:56:02
Draw:
Championship Section:
Test Piece: Odyssey (Kevin Norbury)
Sunday 11th March
The Forum
Commence: not before 2.00pm
Draw: 12:00pm
Adjudicators: Alan Morrison & David Roberts
1. Verwood Concert Brass (Kevin Smith)
2. St Austell (David Nicholson)
3. Woodfalls (Dr Robert Childs)
4. Lydbrook (Glyn Williams)
5. Hyde (Jonathan Lush-Camps)
6. Flowers (David Childs)
7. Camborne Town (Kevin Mackenzie)
8. St Dennis (Darren Hawken)
9. Filton Concert Brass (Tom Davoren)
10. Aldbourne (Dr David Thornton)
11. Lanner & District (Andrew Berryman)
12. Brunel Brass (Neil Skipper)
West of England
Sunday 11, 13:48:27
Result:
Fourth Section:
Test Piece: World Tour (Rodney Newton)
Adjudicators: Brett Baker & John Winterflood
1. Gosport Solent Brass (Colin Garner)*
2. Pendeen Silver (Leonard Adams)*
3. Test Valley Brass (John Heritage)
4. Okehampton Excelsior Silver (Robert Julian)
5. Bideford Town Band (Mark Durham)
6. Nailsworth Silver (Steve Ruck)
7. Verwood Town (Emma Button)
8. Redruth Town (Keith Anderson)
9. Shanklin Town (IoW) (Malcolm Lewis)
10. Wincanton Silver (Steve Sykes)
11. Exeter Railway (Graham Eaton)
12. Tiverton Town (John Fitton)
13. Shaftesbury Town Silver (Martin Hill)
14. Torbay Brass (Gareth Davies)
15. Chalford Academy (Steve Tubb)**
*Qualify for National Final
**Disqualified due to registration infringement. Played at contest with agreement with contest organisers
West of England
Sunday 11, 13:02:33
Fourth Section:
4BR Editor's round up and prediction...
A contest that was certainly enjoyable, even if the standard was variable to say the least. Full marks to all the bands — especially the ones who knew they found it hard work.
A special mention to Torbay Brass who we hope will flourish under their MD: They deserve to. A couple of years ago we heard Bugle Band in much the same situation and they have just gone and qualified for the finals in the Third Section.
It's a battle for the title with Verwood and Gosport for us, with Nailsworth just behind. Exeter Railway, Bideford, Pendeen make up our top-six with a dark horse of Tiverton.
4BR Prediction:
1. Verwood
2. Gosport
3. Nailsworth
4. Exeter Railway
5. Bideford
6. Pendeen
Dark Horse: Tiverton
West of England
Sunday 11, 13:01:15
Fourth Section:
A trio of contenders to close
We had to wait a while to find some challengers to Gosport who seemed to be heading to Cheltenham without a problem, and then came along a tasty trio in the shape of Shanklin, Nailsworth and Verwood Town to close.
Shanklin may have to return to the Isle of Wight with just a mention in dispatches, but Nailsworth could be in around those qualification places.
Verwood rounded things off with a touch of confidence and stylish intent under Emma Button. Just a few little moments of unease, but the excellent tempo choices and the lyrical shaping of the troublesome Pacific Paradise marked this out.
West of England
Sunday 11, 12:13:35
Fourth Section:
Compare and contrast headache for the judges...
Two more performances that will give the judges Brett Baker and John Winterflood a headache or two over in comparing them to the vast majority that have gone before.
Gosport Solent have delivered a performance that is way ahead of the rest, but Wincanton under Steve Sykes and now Exeter Railway are the latest contenders to give renditions that had plenty of style but lacked consistency in execution.
Both had moments when it all knitted together so well, but then it all went a bit wonky. How do the judges pick out the differences, as other had their good and not so good movements in different places? The Pacific Paradise may be the key, but at the moment one qualification place could go to anyone of four or five bands.
To come
13. Shanklin Town (IoW) (Malcolm Lewis)
14. Nailsworth Silver (Steve Ruck)
West of England
Sunday 11, 11:51:33
Fourth Section:
More enjoyable trips around the musical globe...
Two more breezy trips on the good ship Rodney Newton — and a brace of performances from Tiverton Town and Okehampton Excelsior Silver that really tried to capture the different styles of each of the sections.
The technical hurdles just caught Tiverton out at times in a stylish account and it was neatly directed by the MD, whilst a confident Okehampton benefitted from some great lead lines — especially on horn, flugel and bass trom. Had a fair bit of verve and vivacity that.
To come
11. Wincanton Silver (Steve Sykes)
12. Exeter Railway (Graham Eaton)
West of England
Sunday 11, 11:03:00
Fourth Section:
The best of the Fourth Section from different ends of the spectrum...
We have heard two performances that highlight the joy as well as the huge problem with Fourth Section banding at the moment in terms of being relevant.
Torbay Brass bravely took to the stage stage with 19 players and 3 percussionists. The structure was 2 solo cornets, 1 trom, plenty of kids and veterans and a young MD keen as mustard. The playing wasn't great at all, but who should care — they decided to compete when others would have opted out.
On the other hand Gosport Solent Brass produced a fine account — all boldness and precision, confidence and maturity to lead the way by a country mile.
The point though is why on earth can't we just open the Fourth Section up — so the judges can actually see what effort is being put in and by who. Praise youngsters, commend old timers, encourage and enthuse — and still come up with a decision about the playing.
Banding at this level should be about inclusion and participation. Judges can make their decision without spoiling the value of the contest.
A break now....
West of England
Sunday 11, 10:42:19
Fourth Section:
Young and old...
More enjoyable contesting here in Torquay even if the standard hasn't been too great so far. Well done to all the bands though — as they are clearly enjoying the music.
Bideford gave it a confident shot — led by fine flugel and a veteran bass trombone who must have been around when ragtime was in its heyday and popped out his after beats like perfectly formed musical ball bearings. Lots of style to this one.
Chalford Acadmey was packed to the rafters with youngsters who played with such vibrant enthusiasm and joyfulness. Well done to the MD and all the players — real future stars. Great stuff to hear.
To come
7. Torbay Brass (Gareth Davies)
8. Gosport Solent Brass (Colin Garner)
West of England
Sunday 11, 10:06:25
Fourth Section:
Bags of enthusiasm and eager endeavour...
Rodney Newton's test-piece is a great old musical romp, and is bringing bags of enthusiastic, eager endeavour from the competitors.
The latest are Pendeen Silver — complete with five tubas and four perc players who gave it real good go under the experienced Leonard Adams. Some neat touches and a real touch of swagger to the Aussie finish.
Bravo to Shaftesbury Town Silver — with a great little lad on bottom third cornet enjoying himself. A little uneven, but that eager approach never left them on their travels all the way out from Liverpool to the return home via Oz.
To come
5. Bideford Town (Mark Durham)
6. Chalford Academy (Steve Tubb)
West of England
Sunday 11, 09:31:03
Fourth Section:
Two of the best ragtime stingers ever....
Spirited away day tour trips...
We've kicked off here with two spirited accounts from Test Valley Brass led by John Heritage and Redruth Town conducted by Keith Anderson.
Both encountered some choppy waters on the SS Besses o' th' Barn, but the enthusiasm and grit ensured they enjoyed their outward bound journey and their encounter with Chicago ragtime. The Pacific Paradise wasn't quite the golden sands of the Waikiki beach but both certainly enjoyed the stop off to swagger with Matilda.
To come
3. Pendeen Silver (Leonard Adams)
4. Shaftesbury Town Silver (Martin Hill)
West of England
Sunday 11, 09:10:08
Fourth Section:
Ticket to ride...
Lots to look forward to today in Torquay with the enjoyable 'World Tour' by Rodney Newton to start.
Any test piece that can include the march 'Punchinello' with a touch of clever pastiche Scott Joplin and ends with the sounds of Waltzing Matilda is sure to out a smile on anyone's face. And this certainly does.
The middle section 'Pacific Paradise' is a little tester too — languid and relaxing to the ear, but bum squeakingly difficult and nerve shredding on the contest stage at 9.00am on a Sunday morning for sure.
Good luck to all the bands....
West of England
Sunday 11, 08:54:31
Draw:
Fourth Section:
Test Piece: World Tour (Rodney Newton)
Sunday 11th March
The Forum
Adjudicators: Brett Baker & John Winterflood
1. Test Valley Brass (John Heritage)
2. Redruth Town (Keith Anderson)
3. Pendeen Silver (Leonard Adams)
4. Shaftesbury Town Silver (Martin Hill)
5. Bideford Town Band (Mark Durham)
6. Chalford Academy (Steve Tubb)
7. Torbay Brass (Gareth Davies)
8. Gosport Solent Brass (Colin Garner)
9. Tiverton Town (John Fitton)
10. Okehampton Excelsior Silver (Robert Julian)
11. Wincanton Silver (Steve Sykes)
12. Exeter Railway (Graham Eaton)
13. Shanklin Town (IoW) (Malcolm Lewis)
14. Nailsworth Silver (Steve Ruck)
15. Verwood Town (Emma Button)
West of England
Saturday 10, 20:27:55
Result:
First Section:
Test Piece: Brass Metamorphosis (James Curnow)
Adjudicators: Brett Baker and Stan Lippeatt
1. Bournemouth Concert Brass (Howard Evans)*
2. Chalford (Steve Tubb)*
3. Forest of Dean Brass (Bryn James)
4. Michelmersh Silver (Melvin White)
5. SW Comms (Chris Spreadbury)
6. City of Bristol Brass (Paul McLaughlin)
7. A W Parker (Drybrook) (Joshua Ruck)
8. Roche Brass (David Hamilton)
9. Glastonbury Brass (Simon Jones)
10. Sherborne Town (Ian Lowes)
11. Otterbourne Brass (Melvin White)
12. Bodmin Town (John Maines)
13. Sidmouth Town (Adrian Harvey)
14. Andover Town (Steve Large)
15. Wotton-under-Edge & District (Ian Dickinson)
16. St Keverne (Gareth Churcher)
*Qualify for National Final
West of England
Saturday 10, 19:53:48
First Secton:
Final thoughts and round-up
Overall it's been a disappointing contest — although a curiously disappointing one it has to be said.
Somehow the bands didn't get this piece, or didn't play to form, or couldn't quite play it. It's so hard to tell why they struggled on what should have been withing the grasp of the best bands here.
Experience paid dividends here — especially from the men in the middle. That's why we go for Bournemouth from Chalford with Michelmersh just behind. Then come the rest.
4BR Predictions:
1. Bournemouth Concert
2. Chalford
3. Michelmersh
4. AW Parker (Drybrook)
5. City of Bristol
6. SW Comms
Dark Horse: Sidmouth
West of England
Saturday 10, 19:45:23
First Section:
Double White to close...
It's not often you get a MD conducting consecutive performances at a contest such as this, but Melvin White rounds the day off with Michelmersh Silver and Otterbourne.
You may think it would be two performances like peas in a pod — but not on your nelly. Michelmersh gave a very refined account — textured dynamics and colour, whilst Otterbourne go for the jugular — all a bit red raw and visceral.
It's the former for us that holds sway — and may well force its way into the reckoning for a potential Cheltenham qualification place. Note so sure about where Otterbourne will end though.
West of England
Saturday 10, 18:31:54
First Section:
Hard graft and perspiration...
Two performances full of sheer grit and determination here from Glastonbury Brass followed by Andover Town.
The band formerly known as Yeovil Town drew on its collective experience to work hard, and then harder still to try and raw some musical inspiration from the score. They nearly got there at times, but too often it lacked precision in the ensemble.
A brave old effort from Andover — including the best start of the day. Had its moments thereafter but it never quite coalesced into the sum of its parts. Not a bad one today though.
To come
13. Sidmouth Town (Adrian Harvey)
14. Bournemouth Concert Brass (Howard Evans)
West of England
Saturday 10, 17:59:49
First Section:
A Kafka test piece...
Finally, a couple of bands — the first since the artisan efforts of City of Bristol and Sherborne Town that have finally brought us performances that have risen above the curiously poor.
It's as if the bands have been faced with trying to explain the rationale behind Kafka's horribly dark psychological allegory of the same name — because this has been hard to fathom out in anyone's language. Good, solid bands way off beam here.
It was better though with AW Parker (Drybrook) who went for vibrancy and excitement at the obvious expense of accuracy, whilst Chalford went for sturdier stanchions of tempo and dynamic, but lacked contrast as a result. Those two lead the way for us, but we are hoping for something more intuitive and technically secure.
To come
11. Glastonbury Brass (Simon Jones)
12. Andover Town (Steve Large)
West of England
Saturday 10, 17:14:36
First Section:
A real puzzle this...
This contest is turning into something of a puzzling conundrum. These are decent First Section bands that we have heard over the last few years — but not one has really come close to getting within touching distance of this test piece so far today.
Technically it's tricky and bitty but the amount of basic errors and troubles has been startling. The MDs have tried just about every trick in the book to help their players out, but to no avail.
Wotton under Edge & District and St Keverne are the latest to fall foul of a piece that has either lulled them into a sense of false security or is simply too hard. It's not the latter — not for bands with realistic ambitions of being Championship Section material.
Plenty of effort, enthusiasm and endeavour but this has been a puzzlingly poor contest so far.
A break now — and the judges may need it.
To come
9. AW Parker (Drybrook)
10. Chalford (Steve Tubb)
West of England
Saturday 10, 16:44:53
First Section:
More Metamorphic problems...
No faulting the determination of the bands here on what is admittedly a diffuclt piece, but the tour blues start from the word go with the first few bars.
That was shown with both SW Comms and Roche Brass — two bands that have enjoyed better days here in the past. For some reason they never sounded at ease from those first few bars and despite the fine intentions of the MDs and some brave solo work they couldn't knit together the tricky, bitty parts.
To come
7. Wotton under Edge & District (Ian Dickinson)
8. St Keverne (Gareth Churcher)
West of England
Saturday 10, 16:30:37
First Section:
Curnow posing problems...
'Brass Metamorphosis' has been a stern test around the country so far — and it is here too.
Plenty of endeavour and determination on show from Bodmin Town and Forest of Dean, but this was a piece that stretched them both. Sensible conducting from the two experienced MDs helped a great deal, but the technical aspects never sounded under control and so the musical polish was always going to be tarnished.
You suspect they won't be alone today — but there was a bite to the reality check here.
West of England
Saturday 10, 15:36:07
Result:
Third Section:
Test Piece: Napoleon on the Alps (Philip Harper)
Adjudicators: Alan Morrison & John Winterflood
1. Hatherleigh Silver (Matt Green)*
2. Weymouth Concert Brass (Adam Glynn)*
3. Bugle Silver (Steve Osborne)*
4. New Forest Brass (Ian Luxford)
5. Lydney Town (Kevin Ford)
6. Porthleven Town (Tom Bassett)
7. Bratton Silver (Simon Carr)
8. South Molton Town (Gil Taylor)
9. Ocean Brass (Martin Humphries)
10. St Stythians (James Burns)
11. Bath Spa (Martin Perry)
12. Swindon Brass (Francis Cowley)
13. Swindon Pegasus (Steve Yorke)
14. Gillingham Imperial Silver (James Bennett)
15. Tewkesbury Town (Nigel Morgan)
16. Indian Queens (Mark Arnold)
17. Pillowell Silver (Ian Whitburn)
18. Saltash Town (Robert Julian)
*Qualify for National Final
West of England
Saturday 10, 15:22:17
First Section:
Spirited opening in the metamorphic stakes...
We have enjoyed two spirited performances here in the First Section — offering the promise of a good contest to come.
City of Bristol opened proceedings with a bold approach that found detail and precision to start but lost a little focus as it went along — especially in the quicker sections. Some lovely touches from the main soloists led into a finish that had a fair old bit of oomph.
A nicely controlled one from Sherbourne followed — led by the MD who kept a lid on the dynamics and the tempos to good effect. Just needed a touch more pulse and drive perhaps, but others may fail to capture the detail that was shown here.
To come
3. Bodmin Town
4. Forest of Dean Brass
West of England
Saturday 10, 15:13:10
Third Section:
4BR Editor's round up and prediction
An enjoyable contest on a test piece that saw all the bands try to captu the excitment and colour of the score — and all emerged with credit, if not quite as victorious as Napoloean may have hoped.
Out top six though is as follows.....
4BR Prediction:
1. Indian Queens
2. Hatherleigh Silver
3. Ocean Brass
4. New Forest Brass
5. Lydney Town
6. Gillingham Imperial Silver
West of England
Saturday 10, 15:10:20
Third Section:
A solid trio to close
Hatherleigh Silver delivers a performance rich in determination and triumph, but just in need of a little more attention to balance in places. Lovely second section was one of the best of the day.
Porthleven Town use the old towel trick to open to deaden the tubas and it works. It developed into a a well worked account too and the finale skipped along so briskly to a fine close.
New Forest Brass close the contest with a bit of an uneven one that had rich sounds from start to finish and plenty of rhythmic pulse and energy. Just a few too many clips may cost?
West of England
Saturday 10, 15:04:21
Third Section:
Determination and excitement
Indian Queens produced a determined, colourful account here — flowing and bold. Just the odd moment when it didn't sound as much as ease but what a triumphant close. It's was as if the French had won the World Cup.
Saltash Town meanwhile overcome their uncertainties to open to develop into a solid well controlled account. Just lost a tad of focus to close, but it had heaps of energy.
To come
16. Hatherleigh
17. Porthleven
18. New Forest Brass
West of England
Saturday 10, 14:56:09
Draw:
First Section:
Test Piece: Brass Metamorphosis (James Curnow)
Saturday 10th March
The Forum
Commence: not before 2.30pm
Draw: 1.00pm
Adjudicators: Brett Baker and Stan Lippeatt
1. City of Bristol Brass (Paul McLaughlin)
2. Sherborne Town (Ian Lowes)
3. Bodmin Town (John Maines)
4. Forest of Dean Brass (Bryn James)
5. SW Comms (Chris Spreadbury)
6. Roche Brass (David Hamilton)
7. Wotton-under-Edge & District (Ian Dickinson)
8. St Keverne (Gareth Churcher)
9. A W Parker (Drybrook) (Joshua Ruck)
10. Chalford (Steve Tubb)
11. Glastonbury Brass (Simon Jones)
12. Andover Town (Steve Large)
13. Sidmouth Town (Adrian Harvey)
14. Bournemouth Concert Brass (Howard Evans)
15. Michelmersh Silver (Melvin White)
16. Otterbourne Brass (Melvin White)
West of England
Saturday 10, 14:49:37
Result:
Second Section:
Test Piece: Ex Terra Lucem (Jonathan Bates)
Adjudicators: David Roberts & Duncan Stubbs OBE
1. Helston Town (John Berryman)*
2. Shrewton Silver (Michael Dunford)*
3. Soundhouse Brass (Lee Clayson)
4. Downton (Paul Williams)
5. Cinderford (Chris Howley)
6. St Pinnock (David Johnson)
7. Denmead Brass (Estelle Flood)
8. Midsommer Norton & Radstock Silver (Steve Sykes)
9. Camborne Junior Contesting (Alan Pope BEM)
10. Corsham (Colin Hogg)
11. Phoenix Brass (Crewkerne) (Gary Greenstock)
12. Weston Brass (Ceri Thomas)
13. Bream Silver (PhilipTurner)
14. Cheltenham Silver (Nigel Galliott)
15. Poole Borough (Phil Randall)
16. Pendennis Brass (Kevin Ackford)
*Qualify for National Finals
West of England
Saturday 10, 14:10:50
Second Section:
4BR Editor's opinion and prediction
An engagingly enjoyable if occasionally uneven contest this, but one that all the bands emerged with merit from.
The best for us came with Helston — the clear winner for us, and Camborne Junior Contesting, with Midsomer right on their heels. After that we go for Soundhouse with St Pinnock and Cinderford with Downton as a dark horse.
4BR Prediction:
1. Helston
2. Camborne Junior Contetsing
3. Midsomer Norton & Radstock
4. Soundhouse
5. St Pinnock
6. Cinderford
Dark Horse: Downton
West of England
Saturday 10, 14:06:30
Second Section:
Interesting ones to close...
Two intersting performances to close — one of which from Midsomer Norton & Radstock could be right in with a shout of a qualification place after a well drilled, solidly portrayed account that had the experience of Steve asked all over it. That was full of character.
Just before them it was Downton who also gave it a fair old go — dynamically especially. It's was certainly exciting and may just make a mark in the box.
West of England
Saturday 10, 14:01:26
Third Section:
Bold approaches over the Alps...
Bugle Silver have come a very long way in the last 12 months or so and that was gown with a performance of rich merit. Got over it initial nervousness and built all the way to a bold close. Well directed that and well put together aide by tasty sop!
South Molton also had a few uncomfortable moments to start but the fine solo cornet led from the front and it became a performance of substance after that. Lots to enjoy as it built to a fine close.
To come
14. Indian Queens (Mark Arnold)
15. Saltash Town (Robert Julian)
West of England
Saturday 10, 13:34:47
Third Section:
A touch hit and miss with Napoleon...
Enjoyable if slightly erratic stuff here after the break, with Swindon Brass recovering from a tentative opening to produce a performance that grew in vibrancy and character
Gillingham Imperial Silver really gave it their best shot with an impressive opening promising so much. The middle section had warmth and balance but it just got a touch tired in the finale — a bit of a Waterloo for the band. What a pity as that was a performance that had all the right ingredients.
To come
12. Bugle Silver (Steve Osbourne)
13. South Molton Town (Gil Taylor)
West of England
Saturday 10, 13:22:46
Second Section:
Lots of ifs and maybes here...
After the imposing performance from Helston the contest has taken a bit of dip in intensity despite the endeavour and spirit on show from the bands.
Poole Borough never quite got into their stride despite the good intentions from the MD and some sterling work from the tubas, and it has been the same with Shrewton Silver. Again it had its moments and some great little touches, but the intonation was a wonky too often. Lots of what ifs to ponder in the bar you suspect with these two.
To come
15. Downton (Paul Williams)
16. Midsomer Norton & Radstock (Steve Sykes)
West of England
Saturday 10, 12:52:20
Second Section:
Helston cracker may be heading to the finals?
We have been waiting for a performance with an authentic Cheltenham stamp about it and we think it has come with Helston led by John Berryman. That was classy playing, helped it must be said by the MD using all his experience. A clear leader that.
Phoenix Brass (Crewkerne) followed bravely and delivered a vibrant show, but the little niggles and nerves may have proved costly.
To come
13. Poole Borough (Phil Randall)
14. Shrewton Silver (Michael Dunford)
West of England
Saturday 10, 12:26:46
Third Section:
Bratton Silver closes what has been an enjoyable first half of the contest here with a performance that built from a slightly unsure opening. By the time we got to the closing section it was in full flow and ended with such a fine flourish.
Comfort break now...
To come
10. Swindon Brass (Francis Cowley)
11. Gillingham Imperial Silver (James Bennett)
West of England
Saturday 10, 12:18:38
Second Section:
Still up for grabs
We've had the comfort break here and the second half has got underway with two more accounts that held your interest, even if there were also a little uneven in execution.
Cinderford was rich and luscious in their ensemble sound and played with confidence. Some intimations issues just grated a little, but it was so well shaped by Chris Howley at the helm.
Lots to enjoy from Pendennis Brass and Kevin Ackford who made the most his resources. Super euph and trenchermen tubas played their part, but the ensemble precision at times just cost.
To come
11. Helston Town (John Berryman)
12. Phoenix Brass (Crewkerne) (Gary Greenstock)
West of England
Saturday 10, 12:07:50
Third Section:
Contrasting Napoleonic takes...
Two contrasting performances from St Styhtians and Lydney Town — both full of merit and interest.
St Stythians started so well but struggled just to maintain the quality. Loved the bass trom — real cannonball stuff and it had its movements this all the way to the end.
Lydney Town also showed wonderful balance and a cracking vibraphone. The delicate player was super and precise and this carried on all the way to a super end. A nice touch of the left bank Parisian Napoleon about that.
To come
9. Bratton Silver (Simon Carr)
10. Swindon Brass (Francis Cowley)
West of England
Saturday 10, 11:42:55
Second Section:
Nearly ones...
A brace of performances from Cheltenham Silver led by Nigel Galliott in his trademark colourful shirt and Corsham conducted by Colin Hogg that could be summed up in the 'nearly' department of the contesting day.
Both had their moments and were shaped with a knowing hand on the dynamics and tempos, but just a touch of unevenness may cost them.
There is a break now before we start again...
To come
9. Cinderford (Chris Howley)
10. Pendennis Brass (Kevin Ackford)
West of England
Saturday 10, 11:36:23
Third Section:
Poise and style even with a broken arm!
Bath Spa carried on the good work here with precise playing to open. It got nervous in the solo section, sounding a little tired to close, but finished with style and poise.
Pillowell Silver meanwhile opened with a sense a good sense of style and the fInal cornet fanfare led into final movement that went well even with a broken arm! A little untidy in places but closed with drive and boldness.
To come
7. St Stythians (James Burns)
8. Lydney Town (Kevin Ford)
West of England
Saturday 10, 11:18:44
Third Section:
Style and substance on show...
Two more good performances here in the Third Section with Ocean Brass and Tewkesbury bringing something to the Napolenic table.
Ocean played with such precision and neatness to go with the delicacy when required, whilst Tewkesbury had a real French brio about their playing. Just got a little enthusiastic in places but closed with a Gallic flourish.
To come
5. Bath Spa (Martin Perry)
6. Pillowell Silver (Ian Whitburn)
West of England
Saturday 10, 11:06:45
Second Section:
The spirit of light and shade...
More good playing to report on here in the Second Section on Jonathan Bates' engaging test piece.
A slightly uneven one from Bream Silver had its moments, and was followed by a rendition full of verve and brio by Camborne Junior Contesting that was so passionate and very musical, even if the intonation just caught some young ears out at times.
To come
7. Cheltenham Silver (Nigel Galliott)
8. Corsham (Colin Hogg)
West of England
Saturday 10, 10:43:12
Third Section:
Off with a flourish...
We've started with flourish here in the Third Section with both Weymouth Concert Brass and Swindon Pegasus bringing out the colour and character of Philip Harper's breezy portrait of Napoleon winding his way up the Alps on his trusty horse.
Lots of good detail at the quest dynamics from Weymouth under Adam Glynn and more solid stiff to close, whilst Swindon Pegasus also found the drive and pulse of the music to finish with a real flourish.
To come
3. Ocean Brass (Martin Humphries)
4. Tewkesbury Town (Nigel Morgan)
West of England
Saturday 10, 10:39:34
Riviera here we come!
Bands around the country are heading to their Area destinations and it's all smiles from Lydney Band as they make their way to Torquay.
An hour in to our trip to Torquay for West of England #regs2018 and we're just waking up! #brassband pic.twitter.com/39MHz3x9oK
— Lydney Town Band (@LydneyBand) March 10, 2018
West of England
Saturday 10, 10:32:52
Second Section:
A bit of a treat...
Four good bands gone and four contrasting, but solidly portrayed accounts.
The latest came from Denmead Brass who grew in confidence as they progressed under Estelle Flood's neatly shaped musicality and direction.
Contrast came with a richly coloured take from David Johnson (he of the red nail varnish finger nails a couple of year aback with Aldbourne). Lots of lovely ensemble playing, if more than a little hit and miss at times on the solo lines.
To come
5. Bream Silver (Phillip Turner)
6. Camborne Junior Contesting (Alan Pope BEM)
West of England
Saturday 10, 10:05:53
Second Section:
What a good start in Torquay...
It's may be damp and drizzling outside in Torquay but we've been wanted up with a couple of solid, well led performances from Soundhouse and Weston.
Contrasting too — Soundhouse, neat, light and precise, whilst Weston was a bit more beefy and pulsating with energy.
Two MDs using their noggins as well. Hope this continues.
To come
3. Denmead Brass (Estelle Flood)
4. St Pinnock (David Johnson)
West of England
Saturday 10, 09:32:07
Draw:
Third Section:
Test Piece: Napoleon on the Alps (Philip Harper)
Saturday 10th March
The Arena
Commence: 10.00am
Draw: 9.00am
Adjudicators: Alan Morrison & John Winterflood
1. Weymouth Concert Brass (Adam Glynn)
2. Swindon Pegasus (Steve Yorke)
3. Ocean Brass (Martin Humphries)
4. Tewkesbury Town (Nigel Morgan)
5. Bath Spa (Martin Perry)
6. Pillowell Silver (Ian Whitburn)
7. St Stythians (James Burns)
8. Lydney Town (Kevin Ford)
9. Bratton Silver (Simon Carr)
10. Swindon Brass (Francis Cowley)
11. Gillingham Imperial Silver (James Bennett)
12. Bugle Silver (Steve Osborne)
13. South Molton Town (Gil Taylor)
14. Indian Queens (Mark Arnold)
15. Saltash Town (TBC)
16. Hatherleigh Silver (Matt Green)
17. Porthleven Town (Tom Bassett)
18. New Forest Brass (Ian Luxford)
West of England
Saturday 10, 09:24:38
Draw:
Second Section:
Test Piece: Ex Terra Lucem (Jonathan Bates)
Saturday 10th March
The Forum
Commence: 9.30am
Draw: 8.30am
Adjudicators: David Roberts & Duncan Stubbs OBE
1. Soundhouse Brass (Lee Clayson)
2. Weston Brass (Ceri Thomas)
3. Denmead Brass (Estelle Flood)
4. St Pinnock (David Johnson)
5. Bream Silver (PhilipTurner)
6. Camborne Junior Contesting (Alan Pope BEM)
7. Cheltenham Silver (Nigel Galliott)
8. Corsham (Colin Hogg)
9. Cinderford (Chris Howley)
10. Pendennis Brass (Kevin Ackford)
11. Helston Town (John Berryman)
12. Phoenix Brass (Crewkerne) (Gary Greenstock)
13. Poole Borough (Phil Randall)
14. Shrewton Silver (Michael Dunford)
15. Downton (Paul Williams)
16. Midsommer Norton & Radstock Silver (Steve Sykes)
West of England
Saturday 10, 08:44:30
Good morning from Torquay
The English Riviera...
Good morning from Torquay where the English Riviera is as wet as Rangoon in the monsoon season at the moment and even the cackling seagulls are keeping their feathers dry.
As always we have had a wonderful warm welcome though for what promises to be a great day of competition — kicking off with the Second Section at 9.30am in the Forum and the Third Section at 10.00am in the Arena.
The day is rounded off in the Forum with the First Section to complete the day.
Lots to look forward to then.
West of England
Thursday 8, 11:40:04
Competing bands:
Championship Section:
Test Piece: Odyssey (Kevin Norbury)
Sunday 11th March
The Forum
Commence: not before 2.00pm
Draw: 12:00pm
Adjudicators: Alan Morrison & David Roberts
Aldbourne (Dr David Thornton)
Brunel Brass (Neil Skipper)
Camborne Town (Kevin Mackenzie)
Filton Concert Brass (Tom Davoren)
Flowers (David Childs)
Hyde (Jonathan Lush-Camps)
Lanner & District (Andrew Berryman)
Lydbrook (Glyn Williams)
Mount Charles (TBC)
St Austell (David Nicholson)
St Dennis (Darren Hawken)
Verwood Concert Brass (Kevin Smith)
Woodfalls (Dr Robert Childs)
First Section:
Test Piece: Brass Metamorphosis (James Curnow)
Saturday 10th March
The Forum
Commence: not before 2.30pm
Draw: 1.00pm
Adjudicators: Brett Baker and Stan Lippeatt
A W Parker (Drybrook) (Joshua Ruck)
Andover Town (Steve Large)
Bodmin Town (John Maines)
Bournemouth Concert Brass (Howard Evans)
Chalford (Steve Tubb)
City of Bristol Brass (Paul McLaughlin)
Forest of Dean Brass (Bryn James)
Glastonbury Brass (Simon Jones)
Michelmersh Silver (Melvin White)
Otterbourne Brass (Melvin White)
Roche Brass (David Hamilton)
Sherborne Town (Ian Lowes)
Sidmouth Town (Adrian Harvey)
St Keverne (Gareth Churcher)
SW Comms (Chris Spreadbury)
Wotton-under-Edge & District (Ian Dickinson)
Second Section:
Test Piece: Ex Terra Lucem (Jonathan Bates)
Saturday 10th March
The Forum
Commence: 9.30am
Draw: 8.30am
Adjudicators: David Roberts & Duncan Stubbs OBE
Bream Silver (PhilipTurner)
Camborne Junior Contesting (Alan Pope BEM)
Cheltenham Silver (Nigel Galliott)
Cinderford (Chris Howley)
Corsham (Colin Hogg)
Denmead Brass (Estelle Flood)
Downton (Paul Williams)
Helston Town (John Berryman)
Midsommer Norton & Radstock Silver (Steve Sykes)
Pendennis Brass (Kevin Ackford)
Phoenix Brass (Crewkerne) (Gary Greenstock)
Poole Borough (Phil Randall)
Shrewton Silver (Michael Dunford)
Soundhouse Brass (Lee Clayson)
St Pinnock (David Johnson)
Weston Brass (Ceri Thomas)
Third Section:
Test Piece: Napoleon on the Alps (Philip Harper)
Saturday 10th March
The Arena
Commence: 10.00am
Draw: 9.00am
Adjudicators: Alan Morrison & John Winterflood
Bath Spa (Martin Perry)
Bratton Silver (Simon Carr)
Bugle Silver (Steve Osborne)
Gillingham Imperial Silver (James Bennett)
Hatherleigh Silver (Matt Green)
Indian Queens (Mark Arnold)
Lydney Town (Kevin Ford)
New Forest Brass (Ian Luxford)
Ocean Brass (Martin Humphries)
Pillowell Silver (Ian Whitburn)
Porthleven Town (Tom Bassett)
Saltash Town (TBC)
South Molton Town (Gil Taylor)
St Stythians (James Burns)
Swindon Brass (Francis Cowley)
Swindon Pegasus (Steve Yorke)
Tewkesbury Town (Nigel Morgan)
Weymouth Concert Brass (Adam Glynn)
Fourth Section:
Test Piece: World Tour (Rodney Newton)
Sunday 11th March
The Forum
Commence: 9:00am
Draw: 8:00am
Adjudicators: Brett Baker & John Winterflood
Bideford Town Band (Mark Durham)
Chalford Academy (Steve Tubb)
Exeter Railway (Graham Eaton)
Gosport Solent Brass (Colin Garner)
Nailsworth Silver (Steve Ruck)
Okehampton Excelsior Silver (Robert Julian)
Pendeen Silver (Pascal Eicher)
Redruth Town (Keith Anderson)
Shaftesbury Town Silver (Martin Hill)
Shankling Town (IoW) (Malcolm Lewis)
Test Valley Brass (John Heritage)
Tiverton Town (John Fitton)
Torbay Brass (Gareth Davies)
Verwood Town (Emma Button)
Wincanton Silver (Steve Sykes)
