St Austell Town Band recently performed a memorial concert for a stalwart of the brass band movement in the South West.

Although not a player, Hubert 'Bert' Buzza was known by many for his fine work on many committees. He passed away on the 30th December aged 88.

President

Bert's banding association started in the 1960's as the secretary of St Austell, eventually becoming President. He joined the SWBBA and became their registration secretary.

His wife Avril joined him on the committee and they were seen by countless bandsmen at the registration table of the West of England Regional Championships and Pontins Championships.

Musical favourites

The concert consisted of some of Bert's favourite pieces including 'The Theme from Lawrence of Arabia' which his son Bill had arranged. Bert's three great grandchildren who are members of the St Austell Youth Band stood up individually and played solos.

Bert remained a loyal supporter of St Austell Band along with the brass band movement in general. When possible he attended events around the country, especially enjoying trips to Whit Friday and European tours with the St Austell Town and Youth Bands.

One of his proudest moments was to witness St Austell premiere 'Eden' at the National Finals — although later surpassed when his great grandchildren joined the St Austell Youth Band4BR

Pride

One of his proudest moments was to witness St Austell premiere 'Eden' at the National Finals in the Royal Albert Hall in 2005 — although later surpassed when his great grandchildren joined the St Austell Youth Band.

As recently as December 2015 Bert could be seen at concerts by the bands supporting his great grandchildren and the members of his bands.