The prestigious annual awards presented by The Central Band of the Royal Air Force to some of its most talented service personnel, provides an impressive snapshot of the musical excellence that is continually being developed within its ranks.
It also provides a more lasting recognition of the level of dedication and commitment it takes to enjoy a highly rewarding career in what is increasingly becoming an ever more diverse and demanding area of professional music making within our Armed Forces.
Elements
Both elements were on show in what was a highly enjoyable afternoon presentation concert – with the various finalists and award winners showcasing their emerging talents, whilst Principal Director of Music Wing Commander Stubbs brought to an end his outstanding career in a manner befitting the high professional and personal regard in which he has been held.
The Central Band is a superb ensemble; beautifully balanced, precise and articulate, whether in solo spot mode or accompaniment role. The colour palette they provide is rich but subtly viscous - with the rare ability to change musical style at the drop of a baton.
The main competition however was a fine battle between six outstanding performers for the RAF Charitable Trust Soloist AwardIwan Fox
That was certainly shown as they opened with ‘Jubilee Fanfare’, followed by ‘The Lights’, by Cpl Matt Walker, which won the TradeWinds March Competition Trophy. Not content with just the one award, Cpl Walker then picked up the RAF Association Wings Appeal Trophy for his sprightly arrangement of the ‘Scherzo’ from ‘Eight Bagatelles’ (Opus 33) by Beethoven. The Studio Music Award went to Cpl Andy Taylor for his kaleidoscopic ‘Journey through a Spectrum’.
Fine battle
The main competition however was a fine battle between six outstanding performers for the RAF Charitable Trust Soloist Award.
The level of playing was excellent – with flautist SAC Kevin Carberry given a delightful rendition of ‘Concertino for Flute’ by Cecile Chaminade to open proceedings. SAC James Giddings certainly captured the playful swing of the Artie Shaw ‘Concerto for Clarinet’, whilst Sgt Neil Wharton was a fruity, fleet footed bass trombone voice on ‘Transformation on the Lambton Worm’.
Deserving winner
SAC Andy Belfield caught the sleazy brilliance of the famous Harry James ‘Trumpet Concerto’ to a tee, whilst George Bailey revealed a sparkling technique on Arban’s famous ‘Carnival of Venice’. The thoroughly deserving winner however was SAC Sabina Heywood (above) who was a polished, evocative lead on the Carl Maria von Webber ‘Clarinet Concerto No 2’.
With the presentations out of the way and Wing Commander Stubbs graciously taking his leave, all that was left was a rousing run through Philip Sparke’s ‘Reflections on an Old Japanese Folk Song’ to round off an enlightening spotlight on the talent that currently sits in the musical ranks of the RAF.
Iwan Fox
