The recent Manx Music Festival proved to be very successful for the Rushen Silver Band.

Prestigious

Not only did their players claim a number of successes in the brass solo and ensemble classes, but the band itself took home the prestigious Sir Laurence & Lady New trophy for their performance of the popular hymn tune ‘Eventide’.

It helped Rushen come runner-up to eventual overall winners Manx Concert Brass, with Musical Director John Kinley praised for his assertive and clear direction throughout their programme of music, which included two fine solo performances from trombonist Juan Wright and percussionist Joe Callaghan.

Young stars

Earlier on the weekend, there were notable successes for a number of players, including second prize for talented cornetist Owen Williams in the ‘Years 7-8’ brass solo class, horn player Emma Parsons, who was runner up in ‘Under 16’ brass solo class, and Martin Norbury, who gained a very creditable 4th place in the hotly contested ‘Open’ class.

the band itself took home the prestigious Sir Laurence & Lady New trophy for their performance of the popular hymn tune ‘Eventide’4BR

Ensemble success

There were also fine performances to note from the band’s Ballafesson Brass septet and the CRHS brass quartet, both of whom made a great impression on the audience and adjudicator.