Black Dyke previewed its European preparations that were to lead to victory in Freiburg, with an excellent concert in the heart of Whit Friday country.

The evening also gave the good folk of Tameside a chance to say thank you to Councillor John Sullivan (who has played a pivotal role in bringing high quality performers to the Borough) who was standing down from his council duties after fifteen years of merited public service.

Stirring start

Dyke opened with a stirring rendition of 'Queensbury', before the audience was given an insight into what music they were to perform in their bid to become European Champion.

Peter Graham's 'Metropolis 1927  for Brass Band & Percussion' was full of precise ensemble and solo contributions (the pianissimo playing was top draw) and it was little wonder the MD had a contented look on his face before he announced it was to be their own choice selection for the competition a week later.

If the casual brass band lover in the audience didn't know exactly what was involved in competing in Freiburg, those in attendance from local bands knew full well: A week later, so did their European rivals.  

Lighter vein

The rest of the evening's music was of a much lighter vein: Richard Marshall delivered a delightful account of 'Miss Blue Bonnet' which segued into a swanky rendition of 'Let's Face the Music and Dance'.

The concert was supported by the Golland Trust, set up in the memory of the late composer who lived in Dukinfield. In acknowledgement of the Trust's support, Katrina Marzella stepped forward to deliver a beautiful rendition of 'Peace'. It was lyrical solo baritone playing of the very highest class.

Old favourite

An old Black Dyke favourite of Gregson's 'Laudate Dominum' received a stylish reading to close the first half, whilst straight after the interval (where the audience got to get their picture taken with the ‘Double’ silverware) they enjoyed the première of Martin Ellerby's 'Gallipoli '100' march (Esprit de Corps) in honour of the centenary of the ill fated First World War Gallipoli campaign.

Jonathan Bates then took the lead role as both soloist and composer of the ‘Finale’ from Tchaikovsky's 'Violin Concerto' which paved the way for Gary Curtin to pay homage to his homeland in Andrea Price's delightful 'Eire Time'.

Fire in the blood

To close, the MD led his troops through PLC's 'Fire in the Blood' before dedicating the encore, Bach's 'Toccata in D Minor' to Councillor Sullivan.

It sent the packed house on their way with the hope that the Councillor’s successor would hopefully show the same commitment to bringing bands such as Black Dyke back to this venue for many more years to come.

Malcolm Wood