Awards to the dedicated band members
THE annual concert for patrons of Hathern Brass Band took place earlier this month and awards were given to dedicated band members.
The concert, at Hathern Primary School, was a way of saying thank you to those that support the band financially and was also an opportunity to try out some pieces.
The band whisked the audience off for ‘A Spin Around Moscow’ by Shostokovitch, followed by the hymn Manchester - a piece which has added poignancy following the Manchester Arena bomb.
Composer Andi Cook has arranged the hymn for brass bands and proceeds from the sale of the music goes to the charity set-up to help the victims.
Other numbers included Georgia On My Mind with soloist Dru Sparks on flugelhorn, Pie Jesu led by cornet duet Mike Wood and Ken Powell and the peaceful Tranquility played by George Baum on vibraphone.
Patrons’ Evening is also an opportunity for awards to be handed out. Bandsman of the Year, chosen by musical director Dave Newman, was presented to solo cornet player and pianist Susan Hargrave.
And Player’s Player of the Year, chosen by all the band members, was presented to soprano cornet player Ken Powell.
Dave Newman said that the band had never played better and, with talented youngsters coming through, the band is on course to be successful for many years to come.
He paid particular tribute to the bass (tuba) section, saying that they were the most improved section of the band.
Chairman John Worsfold thanked the patrons and made a plea for all supporters to spread the word about the band.
From 2018 the band will compete in the top championship section in annual regional contests.
The band does not have a sponsor, so the support of patrons, who contribute a minimum of £25 a year, is crucial.
• To keep in touch with the band and receive the quarterly newsletter, email Dave Neville at daveneville1947@gmail.com