Wingates Band's reputation for providing inventive, thoughtful entertainment on the concert stage has been enhanced in recent years under the baton of MD Paul Andrews.

It has also seen them gain a loyal following of support - including some hardy souls who travel in their own motor homes to see the band perform.

New talents

They wouldn't have been disappointed after this enjoyable evening at Bolton's Little Theatre either in a concert of beginnings and ends - of exciting new talents and fond memories.

The recent arrivals were certainly on excellent form - led in suave fashion by newly appointed soprano cornet John Atkinson, who delivered a rendition of ‘Live and Let Die,’ that would have had Roger Moore let alone Paul McCartney green with envy, whilst solo horn Thomas Tengelsen, also gave classic film goers something to savour with a stunning performance of ‘Over the Rainbow.’

Impressive

It was the impressive stable of soloists who stole the limelight on the night, even though the ensemble playing, full of detail and carefully considered balance was exemplary.

Bass trombonist Jack Percy was a dark and fruity lead in 'The Hall of the Mountain King', chosen by the MD in memory of his great friend Adrian Morris who passed away in 2016.

Brassed off

The evening also featured a ‘Brassed off’ sequel, with newly appointed flugel Nicola Shaw showcasing the well known 'Concerto De Aranjuez' ahead of the band's forthcoming appearance in a revival of the stage show in Altrincham later this year.

With some splendid band work on varied repertoire giving the audience plenty to enjoy, there was also time for a moment of heartfelt poignancy as the band performed a tribute to their ex-percussion player Matthew Densfield who recently passed away at the tragically young age of just 20.

The band gave an emotional performance of the hymn tune ‘Eternal Father’ which was warmly appreciated by the audience.