Players from Laganvale (Metal Technology) Band enjoyed a hugely successful day at the recent Brass Band League Solo & Ensemble Competition.

Prizes

In the 'Slow Melody' category, the band had no less than four players placed in the top 5. Baritone player Brian Downey took the honours with a beautiful performance of 'A Time for Peace' to pip Nathan Thompson's cornet rendition of 'Rusalka's Song to the Moon'.

The vastly experienced sop player Mark Ruddock finished joint third with Daniel Shape of 1st Old Boys, whilst tenor horn player Fraser Ramsay came fifth.

Double

Brian then went on to complete a memorable 'Double' by claiming victory in the 'A Solo' category thanks to his superb performance of 'La Belle Americaine' — a fantastic feat as he only moved from cornet to baritone in December last year. Nathan Thompson and Mark Ruddock were placed third and fifth respectively.

Our congratulations go to our representatives on their performances and victories and we hope there will be even more Laganvale representation at the competition next yearLaganvale (Metal Technology) Band

Quartet finish

The band completed a great day by taking home the 'A Quartets' trophy.

Nathan Thompson, Gemma McKee (cornet), Fraser Ramsay (Horn) and Brian Downey (baritone) performed Eric Ball's 'Jewels' which led adjudicator Owen Farr to remark in his comments that it was, "...the perfect ending to a great day. How nice to sit back and listen to beautiful music played wonderfully."

A band spokesperson told 4BR: "Our congratulations go to our representatives on their performances and victories and we hope there will be even more Laganvale representation at the competition next year."