Conductor Garry Cutt made his own piece of Whit Friday history last weekend by directing the overall Tameside champion band for a sixth successive time

Six of the best

The title as the undisputed ‘King of Tameside’ had belonged to the Glossop based maestro for the past five years with Foden’s, but following his recent departure from the Sandbach band he brought his march magic to bear with traditional rivals Fairey (Geneva), leading them to their first overall Whit Friday title for nine years.

If you prepare and play consistently well at each venue, you reap the rewardsGarry Cutt

Delighted

Speaking to 4BR Garry told of his delight at achieving such a milestone: "'I'm absolutely delighted. It was a great night. Fairey is a fine young band and there was a cracking atmosphere on the bus going round."

Consistency

With all his success at the contests, Garry quickly identified why he believes he has been so successful.

"I'm a great believer that Whit Friday is a great leveller," before adding, "If you prepare and play consistently well at each venue, you reap the rewards. The band was great and I can't praise them enough for their level of performance on the night."

Howarth's praise

Fairey (Geneva) Band Manager, Ian Howarth was naturally delighted that Garry had led the band to the Tameside title after a long nine year wait: "The band is delighted to get back to winning ways on the contesting stage and I’d like to place on record on behalf of the band our thanks to Garry for his leadership and helping us to our success."

Pace

Ian also told 4BR that Garry had the knack of finding just the right pace to play Edward German’s march, 'The President'.

"You've got to take your hat off to Garry", he said. "Playing a march at the right tempo is vital and he does this so well — and when you're doing this outdoors in a variety of different acoustics, he deserves every credit."

Thanks

Ian also highlighted the contributions on the night of Laura Hurst and Jonathon Probert for picking up their clutch of solo prizes, whilst also thanking tuba player Andy Cattenach for his contribution to their overall success.