Expressions 2018 was the first since Paul Sharman took over as Bandmaster, although Stephen Hanover still co-ordinated this event with an emphasis was on youth as Tom and Kristen Nielsen joined dancers Rebecca and Lucie Gifford as the excellent featured artists.
The band began with Kevin Larsson's take on 'Fill the World with Music', with Alex Gibson (cornet) and David Daws (euphonium) standing either side of the platform.
Later well-delivered items included 'Shine', 'Spiritoso' and the reflective 'At the Cross', which was accompanied by effective images.
Sparkling account
Thomas Nielsen's first contribution was 'When I Remember'; a sparkling account made to sound easy.
He also thrilled the audience with 'Jubilance', before beguiling with 'Someone to Watch Over Me'. His final item 'Spring Lullaby', was beautifully played on flugel.
His sister Kristen may not be as well known, at least in banding circles, but she showed herself to be a very accomplished violinist; enchanting the audience with 'Meditation from Thais', a Vivaldi 'Allegro' and 'Apres un Reve', ably supported by Andrew Gaudion at the piano. She also joined Tom in 'Pie Jesu', accompanied by the band.
He also thrilled the audience with 'Jubilance', before beguiling with 'Someone to Watch Over Me'. His final item 'Spring Lullaby', was beautifully played on flugel.
Down a storm
The Regent Hall Songsters contributed four excellent items; including a lightly-syncopated version of 'All Creatures of our God and King', arranged and conducted by Deputy Songster Leader Karl Westwood.
The dancing of Rebecca and Gracie Gifford enhanced the evening as they presented two contrasting items, demonstrating both athleticism and elegance in their interpretation of the music. Rink Jazz's version of 'Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory' also went down a storm, with each player's solo contribution warmly applauded.
As a finale, the band played Stephen Ponsford's 'Boundless Kingdom' - demonstrating a full, controlled sound with a little less aggression than has sometimes been the case, before a measured account of 'Rosehill' marked the end of a most enjoyable evening.
Peter Bale
