Listening to the band as a member of the audience, on the other side of the stage, was a new experience for me. Of course I expected the band to play well, but the performance exceeded expectations. The programme began with a tight and rhythmic performance of “The lmperial March”, a convincing forerunner to the evening after which, the band never looked back. Highlights were provided by Shelby’s warm and delicate euphonium playing of “Music of the Night” and the soaring, exciting voice of Rebecca with “Ave Maria”. Mention must also be made of the accompaniment in these two items, when the band’s sensitive playing appropriately balanced the soloists’ renderings. Other solo sections in various pieces, were expertly given by principals of the band and volubly appreciated by the audience. Within the programme’s title of the concert ”Music from Films and Shows”, there was something for everyone; ballads, traditional marches, classical, popular and contemporary pieces. An excellent choice of music, which in fact, appeared to entertain everyone. The finale, a resounding “William Tell Overture”, was not quite enough to satisfy an eager audience, which reluctantly accepted that the concert was finally over after several encores of “Radetzky March”. Colum confidently and expertly conducted the band and compered throughout, entertaining an audience of all ages with good and bad jokes, ditties and asides. Congratulations to everyone involved with a superb evening’s entertainment. I look forward to playing with the band again in October. Anne Speed. ![]()
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