The City of Chester Training Band is about to take their summer break following a fine first half of 2017.

In the spring a new City of Chester Junior training ensemble, aimed specifically at children aged 7 — 11, was established under the direction of the Halle Orchestra's tuba player Ewan Easton MBE.

A spokesperson told 4BR: "Gradually the Junior Band is developing and membership is rising following a series of short promotional concerts in local primary schools."

Solo winner

Meanwhile, the City of Chester Training Band annual solo competition saw eight members perform for adjudicator, Robert MacDonald. The winner was 15-year old Robert Tarver, playing his own composition on the cornet.

Before the competition started the entrants gave a short concert under conductor Paul Donoghue. The concert resumed after the competition, whilst adjudicator Robert MacDonald gathered his thoughts before commenting on each competitor's performance and announcing Robert Tarver the winner.

Gradually the Junior Band is developing and membership is rising following a series of short promotional concerts in local primary schoolsBand spokesperson

Praise

All entrants were praised by the adjudicators for entering the competition and for their determination in playing solos before an audience.

Tips were given on preparation, presentation, style, technique and posture and the afternoon concluded with the presentation of medallions and certificates.