The Brass Band League Spring Festival returned to the Alley Theatre in Strabane, County Tyrone last weekend.

Despite a flight cancellation for the adjudicator and travel problems for many of the bands due to motorway closures and various other events, the contest passed off smoothly.

Tuba star Les Neish adjudicated 13 bands on the day, and commented on the high quality of performances. He was particularly impressed by the Junior and School Band sections.

Tuba star Les Neish adjudicated 13 bands on the day, and commented on the high quality of performances. He was particularly impressed by the Junior and School Band sections4BR

1st Old Boys victory

1st Old Boys, conducted by Stephen Cairns decisively won the Championship Section and Rothmans Trophy for the second year running with their fine rendition of Edward Gregson’s 'Dances & Arias'.

The Second Section title was taken by the Third Carrickfergus, whilst CWA won the Third Section. Omagh Academy and 1st Old Boys Youth won the Schools and Junior Band Sections respectively.

The Brass Band League took the opportunity to thank Tommy Barr and his team at the North West Music Festival, Strabane District Council and the staff at the Alley Theatre for all of their help and assistance.

Results:

Championship:
Adjudicator: Les Neish

1. 1st Old Boys Silver Band — 97
2. Laganvale (Metal Technology) Band — 95
3. Downshire Brass — 94
4. Murley Silver Band — 93
5. Strabane Concert Brass — 92

Best Soloist: John Murdock (Euphonium) — Laganvale
Best Percussion: 1st Old Boys Silver Band
Best Trombone Section: 1st Old Boys Silver Band
Winning Conductor: Stephen Cairns

Second Grade:
Adjudicator: Les Neish

1. Third Carrickfergus Band — 89
2. Ballyduff Silver Band — 87

Best Soloist: Ruth Dodridge (Cornet) — 3rd Carrickfergus
Winning Conductor: Dessie Graham

Third Grade:
Adjudicator: Les Neish

1. CWA Brass — 85
2. Wellington Silver Band — 80

School Bands:
Adjudicator: Les Neish

1. Omagh Academy Brass Band — 79
2. St Michael's College Brass Band — 77

Junior/Youth Bands
Adjudicator: Les Neish

1. Old Boys Youth Band — 79
2. Third Carrickfergus Junior Band — 77