It seems that Beaumaris is still floating on a cloud of celebration after the Anglesey band claimed a historic fourth place at the National Championships at the Royal Albert Hall on the weekend.

Emotion

On a day full of emotion, their performance of Paul Lovatt-Cooper’s ‘Breath of Souls’ was highlighted by the three adjudicators for its musical qualities, especially in the slower sections of the test piece.

Walking on air

Speaking to 4BR MD Gwyn Evans was still understandably a man walking on air as he recalled his approach to a work that tested the 20 competitors to the full:

"I’ve always said that it's the musical shape which is most important, and we have worked hard to capture the essence of the piece," he said.

Whole band

Gwyn was quick to praise the whole band for their commitment on the piece, and was especially proud of the special team spirit within the band.

"The blend of youth and experience here is testament to the incredible work in youth development, and the hard work that experienced individuals gave week in week out in encouraging the younger players."

In fact there were 11 players who performed on Saturday who were under the age of 21.

the backbone of the performance was the contribution of all the players, with every individual on the stage putting their heart and soul into the ensemble playingGwyn Evans

Played their part

"Everyone played their part – both young and old," Gwyn added with a smile.

"There were fantastic individual contributions from Glen Van Looy on euphonium and Chris Williams on flugel in particular, but the backbone of the performance was the contribution of all the players, with every individual on the stage putting their heart and soul into the ensemble playing."

Thanks

The result also gave the band the opportunity to say thank you to the local community who supported them in their fund raising activities to get to London – support that came up with over £9,000 to meet travel and accommodation costs.

Gwyn said: "This again highlights the fantastic community spirit that the band has created over the years. This result is for all from all of us, past and present, who have made this band the success it is today."