Cory's victory at the European Championships in Ostend at the weekend has given percussionist Gavin Pritchard what is believed to be a record 7th consecutive win at the contest.

Successive wins

While there are other players and conductors who have tasted success at the European more times in total, Gavin’s 7 wins have come in 7 appearances — YBS (6 times) and with Cory (once).

"I have been privileged to have played in these two fantastic bands when they have been playing at the very top of their form," Gavin told 4BR.

I have been privileged to have played in these two fantastic bands when they have been playing at the very top of their formGavin Pritchard

Not as smooth

Not all of his victories have come as smoothly as Cory's this year though.

"I remember in 2000, during our performance of ...Dove Descending, the tam-tam got knocked over and took out a microphone stand as it crashed to the ground. We still managed to win, and sounded great on the CD!"

Most difficult

As for the most difficult part he has had to play in achieving victory? "A special mention has to go to Chain in 2002 which had a fiendishly difficult xylophone part which I had to play!"

Not finished

Gavin hasn't finished yet with the contest either and wants to add more European wins to his CV. "I hope to still be with Cory next year where they will be attempting a hat-trick in Linz. That would be number 8!"