It is very nearly always the case that the sequel is a disappointment when compared with the successful original?

Question

And that's the question that players in Hampshire's Test Valley Brass are asking themselves, as the band enters their first senior contest for four years, at the weekend.

"Jaws was a classic, but somehow Jaws 2 didn't match up. Star Trek was primetime viewing, but Star Trek: Next Generation wasn't quite the same hit," said Steve Large, who will conduct the band, in the South West regional contest in Torquay.

Force

In the late 1990's Test Valley Brass were a force to be reckoned with, rising through the sections with podium finishes at Regional and National championships.

Although a few members of that successful group are still involved, many of the new grouping are drawn from the band's enthusiastic youth contingent.

New generation

Steve added: "This is something of a new beginning. A sort of Test Valley Brass — Next Generation. And in entering this weekend's 4th Section contest, we are boldly going where some of us have never gone before!"

This is something of a new beginning. A sort of Test Valley Brass — Next Generation. And in entering this weekend's 4th Section contest, we are boldly going where some of us have never gone before!Test Valley

Chances

As for their chances then? Steve concluded: "This time it's mainly about the experience. We'll find out whether contesting is something we've the appetite for, with a younger group of players.

"It's a tough testpiece and we initially struggled to play it through. But we've persevered. As long as everybody gives it their best shot, I'll be more than content."