Last weekend Foden’s made its highly enjoyable annual pilgrimage to Northern Ireland as guests of the Armagh Old Boy’s Band.

Highlights

Now in its 13th consecutive year, the trip is seen by the band as one of the undoubted highlights of their hectic concert schedule.

The first concert of a busy weekend was on the Friday night, which saw Foden’s share the stage at the Market Place Theatre with the Armagh Old Boy’s Band, as well as a local school choir.

Launch

The concert also launched the sale of the latest CD 'Patrons Choice 6' — as well as the 'Foden’s Double Champions DVD' recorded live at Manchester Cathedral.

Meanwhile, Saturday saw the band back on stage to perform as the backing for 20 highly talented youngsters aged from 9 to 19.

Seat safe

The mixed ability soloists had chosen their respective solos wisely to show off their emerging talent – so much so that the band was almost left speechless by a rendition of ‘Cleopatra’ by a 15 year that had principal cornet Mark Wilkinson wondering if his seat was safe for the concert later that night!!

Mark later told 4BR: "Every single one of the soloists shone in front of a very appreciative audience. The youngsters must be commended for their approach and sheer enthusiasm. It was quite contagious!"

He added: "The bravery shown in standing up and performing a solo with Foden’s was outstanding. The future of banding across the Irish Sea is blossoming and is in good hands – and I had better watch out for certain!"

Hospitality

In between rehearsals and concerts, the band and the young soloists were shown the kind of hospitality that has become synonymous with this trip.

The evening concert belonged to Foden’s though, and they highlighted the full array of the ‘Double winning’ talents with soloist Mark Wilkinson, Glyn Williams, Helen Williams, Lesley Howie, Stewart Baglin and Natsumi MacDonald.

The future of banding across the Irish Sea is blossoming and is in good hands – and I had better watch out for certain!Mark Wilkinson

Smiles

As the final notes finished ringing around the hall after seven hours of playing on the Saturday, the large and appreciative audience poured out in to the brisk Irish air with smiles on their faces.

Plans are now well underway for the popular Armagh Summer School in August

Thanks

The final word went to Mark Wilkinson: "As has always been the case with this trip, Ivor Stephenson and his dedicated team of helpers must be thanked for their hospitality, communications and organisation. Without them, the trip would not have been possible."