Thundersley Brass has announced that they have now completed their line up and have an enthusiastic full band who are very much looking forward to their debut in the L&SC 2nd section area, under new MD Roland Morris.

Joining are Brian Vincent, principal baritone of Aveley & Newham Band for many years, who joins on the same position. Ian Sharp will now move down to second baritone.

Area debuts

Meanwhile, Martin Hurrell, trumpeter with the BBC Symphony Orchestra, has signed to play soprano cornet. Mark Hambleton and Rebecca Goldsmith have joined the percussion section whilst also competing in their first 'areas' with Thundersley will be assistant MD David Howell on solo horn, and Paul Tong on 2nd trombone.

The band also welcome back Laura Nicholls on second cornet, after the birth of her first baby.

...the long journey down to Sussex for the Southern Counties Quartets and Ensemble Contest turned out to be a very worthwhile for the 8 members of the band, winning a car boot full of cups, medals, and plaques4BR

Solo and Quartet success

Meanwhile the long journey down to Sussex for the Southern Counties Quartets and Ensemble Contest turned out to be a very worthwhile for the 8 members of the band, winning a car boot full of cups, medals, and plaques!

Performing at the contest for the first time the group picked up the highest award on the day, winning the prestigious Magna Carta Cup for winning the Open Section Ensembles competition.

Swan Lake

The ensemble played an arrangement of 'Finale from Swan Lake' and also took second place, and more silverware, for their performance of a new version of 'Bohemian Rhapsody' in the Second Section.

The 'A' quartet won second prize in the Open Section Quartets competition and won 3rd prize in the Second Section too.

The 'B' quartet won 3rd prize in the Open Section Quartets and achieved 8th place overall.

Warm sounds

In the slow melody competition Rhys Cave won the Under 14 category for his performance of 'Evergreen' and 2nd prize in the Under 18 category with 'Share my Yoke'.

Commenting on the performances, adjudicator David Barringer was particular impressed with the groups warm and robust sound, and the ability of the soloists around the stands.

Thundersley now hope this is the start of winning ways for the year to come!