One of the more intriguing musical developments in the UK over the past year has been the launch of three professional brass bands within the British Army.

The long term aims of the initiative could also benefit the civilian banding movement for years to come, so this concert provided a welcome opportunity to hear the progress that has been made by the King’s Division Band (based in the North West) under the baton of Captain Justin Matthews.  

Impressive

Opening up with an impressive fanfare team on 'Young Pheasants in the Sky', the full band then delivered the march 'BB & CF', with just the right hint of precision swagger.

Fletcher's 'Labour & Love' was played with thoughtful appreciation - the MD allowing the music to flow without recourse to operatic bombast and a keen ear for internal balance and dynamic contrast. 

Virtuosity

In a change to the published programme, bass trombonist, Paul Strachan took centre stage in Stephen Verhelt's 'Capriccio', in what was a fine display of tasteful virtuosity.

Holst's march from 'A Moorside Suite' didn't quite knit together in places, but 'With Each Sunset Comes the Promise of a New Day', gave the audience time to reflect on those who've lost their lives through conflict in a rendition of utmost respect.

Intense

To close, an intense reading of 'Blitz', with the ensemble finding the sense of impending unease and ultimate catastrophic release to telling effect. It was an impressive account of a difficult work of substance - and one that was a brave and well considered contrast to what had been performed before.

Joy

After a short break, over 100 players from various primary schools in Wardle, near Rochdale took to the stage to perform a mini-concert.

For the fourteenth year in a row, they had come together on the eve of the event for a massed rehearsal, before proudly striding onto the stage to give a wonderful demonstration of their combined talents. It was a joy to both see and hear. 

'It's a Long Way to Tipperary' and 'Pack up your Troubles' were delivered with oodles of energy as was the theme tune from 'Scooby Doo' and Ray Woodfield's 'Circus Parade' - with some great added vocals.

MD, Lee Rigg then pulled the dynamics right down in a mature performance of 'Deep Harmony' before they finished off what was an enjoyable eighty minutes from both bands with 'When the Saints'.

Malcolm Wood