Elland Silver Band's annual Slow Melody, Duet & Quartet Contest returned in fine fashion on the weekend with the local Southgate Methodist Church a hub of vibrant musical activity.

There were 70 entries across the sections of competition, with many performers making lengthy journeys to take part. There was also a wide range of youth and experience — from young musicians developing their skills to experienced brass players, all showcasing their musical talent, dedication and community spirit.

Great success

Adjudicators Stephanie Binns and Tom Hutchinson also enjoyed a wide variety of performances with the soloists, duets and quartets, whilst thanks was given to the outstanding accompanists Harry White and David Hall, supporters and volunteers who made the day such a great success.

Sponsors and prize donors, included Band Supplies, Besson Brass, Denis Wick, World of Brass, Wright & Round, Brass Wind, New Moon and John Packer Musical Instruments.

Fantastic day

Reflecting on the success, an Elland Silver Band spokesperson said: "What a fantastic day of music-making. We were delighted to welcome so many performers and supporters to Elland.

The standard of playing was wonderful, and it was particularly rewarding to see young musicians sharing the stage with more experienced performers."

They added: "Our sincere thanks go to everyone involved. Events like this take a huge amount of work behind the scenes, and the support of so many people makes it possible for us to continue encouraging musicians and celebrating brass music in our community."

The standard of playing was wonderful, and it was particularly rewarding to see young musicians sharing the stage with more experienced performersOrganisers

Results:
11 Years and Under:

1. Alex Wang (Elland Silver Youth)
2. Georgia Meneisy (Stockport Schools Band)
3. Lawrence Greenwood (Elland Silver Training)

Most Promising Player: Hugh Farrell
Youngest Player: Ruby Nichol

14 Years and Under:

1. Glyn Stokes (Elland Silver Youth)
2. Freya Garlic (Dobcross Youth)
3. James Oliver (Dobcross Youth)

Best Cornet: Glyn Stokes (Elland Silver Youth)
Best Flugel: Daisy Griffiths

16 Years and Under:

1. George Garside (City of Bradford)
2. Michael Stejskal (Elland Silver Youth)
3. George Heaney (Blackburn & Darwen)

Best Tenor Horn: Imogen Catterall-Annal
Best Bass: Michael Stejskal
Adjudicators' Award to perform as a soloist with Elland Silver Band: George Garside

Junior Duets:

1. Charlie & Michael (Elland Silver Youth)
2. James & Joseph
3. Edward & Rose (Elland Silver Youth)

Junior Quartets:

1. Dobcross Youth Band
2. MYBB Junior Quartet
3. Note Brass Ensemble C

Open Age:

1. George Garside (City of Bradford)
2. Simon Jones (Verwood Concert Brass)
3. Thomas Partington (Elland Silver)

Best Euphonium: Jeff Brown
Oldest Player: Ian Gill (Elland Community)
Adjudicators' Award to perform as a soloist with Elland Silver Band: George Garside

Veterans (Over 40):

1. Simon Jones (Verwood Concert Brass)
2. Jeff Brown (Verwood Concert Brass)
3. Claire Farrell

Senior Duets:

1. Ainslee & Tom (Elland Silver Band)
2. A&C (Audley Brass)
3. Pharrell Williams

Senior Quartets:

1. MYBB Senior Quartet 1
2. CHAT Quartet
3. ESYB Quartet