Tuesday, 7 November 2006

Hebden Bridge Band were celebrating this weekend after being awarded second place at the 2006 Pontin’s Brass Band Championships in Prestatyn, Wales. This is the first time for over 50 years that the Band has achieved a major prize at a contest of this standard.

Hebden were on fine form competing against the best bands from across the country, despite a few pre contest nerves once on stage the band delivered a fine performance. Both the adjudicators were full of praise for the Bands performance.

Adjudicator Roy Roe said: “This was a good musical performance with a lot to commend, good playing from all round the band.”

Whilst adjudicator Barry Thompson added: “Overall a performance of considerable depth.”

The success comes after an unfortunate couple of weeks for Hebden. Musical Director Professor Philip Wilby could not take up his usual position in front of the band due to family circumstances. With the superb help of Duncan Beckley in the final week of rehearsals and the expert conductorship of John Roberts on the day, the band managed to pull together and shine.

Hebden Bridge Band’s Vice Chairman, Steve Gardner added: “The band seemed to rise to the occasion responding magnificently. It is a true demonstration of the bands quality and our ability to compete at the highest level.”

The band would like to take this opportunity to thank Duncan, John and Philip for their support, without which this weekends success would not have been possible.

Hebden Bridge Brass Band has only been competing at First Section level, the equivalent of the Championship to use a football analogy, since January and to achieve second place against such a strong field of bands, combined with a difficult few weeks, is a remarkable achievement. This result should reinstate Hebden in the world’s top 200 bands.

The band is going forward with new found confidence, and as Professor Phillip Wilby is off to pastures new in Bristol where his wife Wendy has taken on a new role at the Cathedral, the band is currently seeking a new resident Musical Director.

For more information about the Musical Director position at Hebden Bridge Band contact Jenny Barker on 07980 281062

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