Fans of the 1996 film ‘Brassed Off’ starring Ewan McGregor and the late Pete Postlethwaite will find enjoyment seeing Grimethorpe Colliery Band in concert. 

Performing music from the film such as ‘Death or Glory’ by R. B. Hall and the ‘Finale from William Tell’ by Rossini, the band did not disappoint and reminded the audience exactly why we love the film so much; for the music!!

Musical talent

It doesn’t take a connoisseur to recognise the incredible musical talent within the band. Particular stand-out performances from principal cornet Roger Webster, co-principal cornet Jamie Smith, solo euphonium Michael Dodd and solo baritone Michael Cavanagh highlighted their strengths even further, leaving the audience completely blown away.

The programme was cleverly crafted with a mix of both sombre and uplifting music. Solemn songs such as ‘Irish Tune from County Derry’ and the beautiful, ‘The Spirit Within’ by Ben Hollings left many in the audience teary eyed; soon to be uplifted by upbeat music such as ‘Let’s Face the Music and Dance’ and ‘Carnival of Venice’, which put a smile on everyone’s face. 

Sentimental

Helpful anecdotes provided by conductor Brian Grant gave relevant background information and only helped the audience appreciate the music even more.

A sentimental mention of their performance of ‘Danny Boy’ at Pete Postlethwaite’s funeral, and its failure to leave a dry eye in the audience, had a similar consequence in St George’s Hall with many people moved by the beautiful sound created - made even more poignant when remembering Postlethwaite’s life. 

Amazing sound

It is certain that a brass band can only be appreciated live. Despite being a fan and very familiar with the music involved in ‘Brassed Off’, the amazing sound these players were able to create and the admirable stamina exhibited did not fail to blow me and many others away. To produce a performance of such high quality is nothing other than admirable!

Pleased

What pleased me most was to see the players and conductor share smiles and laughs together on stage. 

There is nothing more pleasing to an audience than to see those providing the entertainment enjoy what they are doing as much as those who are listening. Despite the challenging repertoire, the band remained in high spirits and their energy was infectious.

The audience were eagerly nodding along and tapping their foot to their favourite pieces.

DVD cupboard

Witnessing Grimethorpe Colliery Band live will have you whistling the tunes fondly for hours after and, for those who love the film, have you running to your DVD cupboard to put ‘Brassed Off’ on and appreciate the music all over again. 

I would urge anyone lucky enough to have the opportunity to go and see them to definitely do so. A wonderful afternoon or evening spent that will not fail to put a smile on your face.

Sarah Goldsmith

Original review at: http://www.northwestend.co.uk