The northern end of the Cotswold Hills probably does not immediately come to mind as a brass band heartland.

Splendid take up

However, on 20th. April, Blockley Brass Band, a non-contesting village band, staged a Training Day and invited others to participate. The result was a splendid take up of over fifty players with a wide range of age and ability. Particularly encouraging was the number of young players.

The result was a splendid take up of over fifty players with a wide range of age and ability. Particularly encouraging was the number of young players4BR

Massed bands

The day was headed by Andy Culshaw, ably assisted by Paul and Tracy White, Kate Williams and Rob Stew, and concentrated on the basics and enjoying what was happening both as a massed band and in sectionals.

Rousing finale

Arrow Valley came along in the afternoon and provided accompaniment for a splendid range of solos from the tutors and some short items in a final informal concert, where the participants played what they had worked on and everyone joined together for a rousing finale.

Thanks to Blockley for a well organised day, which left everyone looking forward to the next time.