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Summer Brass!
Intermediate band make their debut

As part of a season on summer concerts, the band hosted their own concert at Guthlaxton College in Wigston entitled "Summer Brass". This also saw the debut performance of the Wigston Intermediate Band under the direction of their conductor Richard Stone.

As well as performing their own selection of pieces, including 'I will Follow Him' from Sister Act and a version of the Floral Dance, the Intermediate Band joined forces with the Senior Band to peform a massed bands item of Meet the Flintstones, conducted by Richard with a youngster on 1st Horn by the name of Garry Sleath.

The youngest member of the Intermediate band, Amy, presented the Mayoress of Wigston with a bouquet of flowers at the end of the concert.

Introducing the Intermediate Band...
Training Band settle on a name

After considering many names for our new band I believe “The Intermediate” band best represents its goal. From my previous experience a mixed band of young and some of our more mature players, provides a good balance for all to improve and gain experience.

The band will provide a training environment for our up and coming stars of tomorrow, allowing them to play solo and lead parts. A brass band provides a unique social environment for all; parents, adults and children where they can enjoy the pleasures and life experiences of music.

Hopefully before long we will soon be performing for you. Thank you for your support.

Richard Stone

Training band leaps forward...
First rehearsal for new training group

The training section of The Wigston Band have had their inaugural rehearsal. Under the baton of Richard Stone, a group of 12 keen players, of all ages and abilities, met on Tuesday 5th December at 6:30pm for the first practice. The first rehearsal was very positive and Richard is always looking out for anyone who may wish to learn or develop their playing on a brass instrument.

We are of course on the lookout for support in any way, financial, instruments, new players - if you think you can help us to boost our training band, please get in touch. We'd love to hear from you.

Adam joins the ranks...
Band welcome new percussionist

As if Marion didn't have enough on her hands keeping Roger in line, she now has another one to look after in the kitchen sink department! Seriously though, the band would like to give a huge welcome to our newest member. Adam Reynolds has decided to join us on percussion. Adam joins us from the Hathern Band organisation and brings with him a huge talent at such a young age.

The Trinity of Percussion: Roger, Adam and Marion

Adam now completes our percussion section joining Marion and Roger. Adam will primarily play the Drum Kit and orchestral percussion at contests, Marion leads on tuned percussion, with Roger brining up the rear on Timpani and anything else he can hit! Adam made his debut for the band at our recent contests and is already making himself known in our concerts- you just can't miss him! (in a good way!!) Our percussion section is now a real strength in the band. So welcome aboard Adam!

LEAMINGTON CONTEST
WMBB Competition - 26th November

Sunday 26th November saw the band take to the contest stage again, this time at Leamington Spa. Following our win the week before, the band were on edge and put in a reasonable performance of "Diversions" by Philip Sparke. Unfortunately we only managed 5th place in this competition, but that's contesting for you!

LBBA Contest - 2nd Section.
Leicestershire Association Open Competition
Sunday 19th November

1st - THE WIGSTON BAND
2nd - Carlton Brass
3rd - Harborough Band
4th - Daventry
5th - Foresters Brass 2000
6th - Stamford
7th - Unity Brass
8th - Hitchin Band
9th - Brighton & Hove City Brass
10th - Capital Concert Brass

OTHER KNOWN RESULTS:

Open Section - Winners = Clacton (well done Graham!!)
1st Section - Winners = Kibworth
3rd Section - Winners = Matlock
4th Section - Winnder = Thundersley


	Pleasing 'Area' result... Mid-table pleases band and MD Saturday 10th March saw the band compete once more in the Midlands Regional First Section of the national brass band championships. After being newly promoted to the first section following a successful few years in the second, Wigston took to the stage in Burton Town Hall and played what we felt was a fair rendition of 'The Wayfarer' by Eric Ball.
			Thankfully the adjudicators felt the performance was fair also, and awarded the band 10th place out of a possible 18 (one withdrew also). Mixed and sometimes opposing comments fom the two adjudicators gave the band both praise and constructive critique of our performance.
	Congratulations go to Gresley Colliery band who won the section, as well as to Enderby who look like they've earned promotion to the top section from next year after coming in 4th place. A special thank you and well done to Lizzie on Solo Horn - what a star! Here's to more first section contests!!

I don't believe it..
New member wins 200 Club

You can't say we didn't offer! We are delighted to announce that one of the band supporters that signed up to our 200 club at the christmas concert actually went ahead and won the very next draw! Well that is good luck! And it could have been you!

There's no closing date if you want to join the 200 club - get in touch! For only £2 a month you enter into our monthly cash prize draw, as well as the yearly superdraw where you can win hundreds of pounds! Not only that you can keep the band going at the same time!

Our treasurer is 'well-clever-like' and can even do standing orders, so you don't even have to remember to pay! Genius. How simple do you want us to make it?

Join today and make our treasurer's day! Thanks.

Garry Makes it a double record

Garry has done it once again and has taken the title of National School Orchestra Champions, the only School ever to have won the competition two years in succession. Playing in the Symphony Hall in Birmingham, as part of the national festival of music for youth, Garry and his talented orchestra once again impressed the judges. Congratulations Garry.

Comings and Goings
Musical Chairs

There have been a number of player changes over the last few months as the band welcome some new members to its ranks, and also says farewell to a couple of familiar faces.

We are very pleased to welcome Bob Foulds to fill the position of Solo Horn, Bob moves over from the Enderby band. Tony Spratt has made the move up north from Swindon and joins on EEb Bass, Colin Jones takes up the challenge of Solo Baritone, Steve Reynolds makes good use of his time taxiing our talented percussionist about and takes the plunge on BBb Bass and finally Matt Davis makes a welcome additon to the back row on 2nd Cornet.

Amidst all these new faces, there have also been a couple of other changes as Principal Cornet Kirk Turner leaves Wigston after 12 years to join the Newstead Welfare band on Principal Cornet. And finally, Richard Williams makes the move onto Bass Trombone as Tim Emberson helps out on Tenor Trombone balancing his busy schedule.

I think that's it? Those of you reading Bum Notes would have heard about the welcome return of Graeme and Debbie Hulls earlier in the year, both on Bb Cornet.

Right...time to update the player pages..

New Horizons...
New Signings and new arrivals...

Our latest press release...

The Wigston Band regret to announce that principal cornet, Kirk Turner will be leaving to take up the vacant principal seat at Newstead Brass. Kirk has been a loyal and hard working member of the band for the last twelve years, initially joining as second man down, before promotion saw his first stint as principal. Whilst at university, Kirk maintained his links with the band making the journey back to Leicester on several occasions to help fill vacant seats for contests. After graduating, Kirk returned to Leicester and rejoined the band on rep, before making the move back to principal.

Kirk has flourished as a player since his return to the principal’s seat culminating with Kirk and the Band taking the best soloist prize at the Bolsover Entertainments Contest last year – even though they were plunged into darkness mid-way through his solo performance! He has also become involved in the running of the band, being a valued committee member, and the band’s public relations officer (PRO). His PRO work has included a total redesign of the bands website.

Whilst the band is saddened by his decision to leave, they understand that Kirk wants to seek new horizons in his playing career and wish him well for the future. Kirk stated that he was sorry to leave such a great group of people and now looks forward to new challenges ahead. He would like to thank all the members of the band for their support and friendship, in particular the band’s Musical Director Garry Sleath for all his advice and encouragement.

New Arrival

Finally, the Band would like to wish Karen and Paul Edwards very many congratulations, on the birth of their first child, Peter Philip Edwards. Peter made his entrance into the world on Friday 13th July at 8pm weighing in at an admirable 9lbs 2oz. Karen and Peter are both doing very well, so well in fact that Peter has already made an appearance at his first rehearsal! All members of the Wigston Band would like to extend their very best wishes to Karen and Paul.

New Signing

On a happier note, the band is pleased to announce that Bob Foulds has joined the band on solo horn. Bob joins after several years playing solo and first horn at the Enderby Band. Before his time at Enderby he played with several Leicestershire bands including the Kibworth Band and Ibstock Brass.

On the new signing Garry stated: “We’re delighted to have Bob with us at Wigston, he is well known throughout Leicestershire as a committed and hard-working bandsman and will bring a lot of quality and experience to the band. The solo horn seat has been vacant for a while now so I’m pleased to have a good player full-time in such an important seat. I’m looking forward to working with Bob for the rest of the summer concert season, onward into the contest season and beyond”.

Lights out at Bolsover Contest...
NEMBBA Entertainment Contest - Shirebrook
Sunday 8th October

On Sunday 8th October, the band took part in the NEMBBA Entertainment "Brass Explosion" contest at Kissingate Leisure Centre in Shirebrook. Ten bands had entered and a late draw for band saw us take to the stage at about 2 o'clock.

Moments before this, hearts were racing as our guest Solo Horn player June Dodd was nowhere to be seen. Delayed from her own band rehearsal, there were moments to spare as June ran in ready to take to the stage! Phew!

Opening the Programme in fine style with "Comedy Tonight" from 'A funny thing happened on the way to the forum', whistles were blowing and rattles-a-shakin as the impressive percussion section got to work! Thanks to Adam for lending us a hand on the kit!

One piece down all seemed to be going very well as the band began its next piece featuring Principal Cornet Kirk Turner as Soloist playing Howard Snell's arrangement of 'Nessun Dorma'. As the drama heightened in the music, the same could be said for the hall as on the last line of the music, the whole of Shirebrook had a power cut and the lights went out.......but the band played on....in total darkness!! This was closley followed by an eruption of applause from the crowd as remarkably we all managed to finish together even though we couldn't see what was going on.

Officials soon informed us there were problems across the county and that the power was likely to be off for a couple of hours. Band and Adjudicator vowed to continue as Fire exits were opened to provide as much light as possible. Now in reduced visibility conditions the band soldiered on featuring its Trombone section in Rocking Trombones, followed by a change in tempo in the song setting "Mid All the Traffic". Finishing off on its feet the band featured its corner players in an up tempo swing arrangement of "When the Saints".

Only one band to go after us, the results followed shortly, starting with the award for the best soloist of the day, which went to the Cornet Player in....The Wigston Band, Kirk Turner. An excellent start for the band, the band cheered on in great spirit as Kirk collected his trophy. Various other trophies and places were presented with the band eventually achieving the runner up prize, 2nd Place for its efforts, with very complimentary remarks from adjudicator David Horsfield.

An excellent and enjoyable day all round with first place going to the impressive Strata Brass from Yorkshire! Some good performances on show and a good days entertainment for the crowd all round, even if the lights did go off!!!

Band on the Beeb with Burbage Bill...
Band's CD featured on Radio Leicester

If you happened to have your "wireless" tuned to 104.9FM on Sunday 1st October you may well have heard the band featured on Bill Maynard's show on BBC Radio Leicester.

Each week Bill, who's most famous recent role was that of Greengrass in ITV's show Heartbeat, features a local artist or group and this week was the turn of the Wigston Band.

Bill and his producer chose to feature Track 10 of the band's latest CD, Breezin', entitled Lets Face the Music and Dance. Bill was very complimentary about the band and was kind enough to say that people should be proud to have a band like that locally and that he felt the recording was very professional. Thanks Bill!

For details of the show, you can visit the BBC Radio Leicester Website. If you haven't got yourself a copy of Breezin' yet then you can get one by either ringing our Secretary Alison Raggett on 0116 2877187 or by sending us an email!

Johnson's help Wigston clean up...
Band recieve help from cleaning company.

We are very lucky to have recently recieved some very kind support from national dry-cleaning company Johnsons.

Seeing as the band have lots of uniforms to carry around, from waistcoats to stage jackets, Johnsons came to the rescue and have provided the band with a new set of suit carriers to keep us clean whilst out at engagements!

The band send their thanks to Johnsons, the home of the Priority Club and have used them now on many occasions!

Foston Church
St. Bartholemews - Foston: Saturday 5th August

Following on from summer engagements at Melton Park and Thurlaston Carnival, the band once again returned to the beautiful 10th Century church of St. Bartholemews in Foston. Offering a varied programme of classical music such as "Deep inside the Sacred Temple" and "Cavaleria Rusticana" to new arrangements including "The Water is Wide" and circus march "The Bombasto", the band put on a good show, which was warmly recieved by the people of Foston. Well done to Paul's mum Elaine once again for running around and sorting the raffle and to Gareth, not only for managing to stay awake after his long night shift at work, but for having the energy to collect his raffle prize!

Training Band to Reform

You may have seen an article in the Leciester Mercury recently reporting the good news that the Training section of the Wigston Band is hoping to start again in the next couple of months.

A member from within the band has volunteered to coordinate the new group and the band committee are now keen to get together enough suitable instruments on which people, of any age, can learn to play a brass instrument. If you think you can help by donating any brass instruments that would be of a good quality for a budding musician to learn on then please get in touch.

Band Goes Dutch...
Article taken from our newsletter "Bum Notes" -

The wheels are in motion for the next Wigston Band tour. The Easter of 2007 looks set for the next trip but this time we’re setting our sights for Holland, a bit different to previous trips to Spain. A sub- committee is being formed as we speak with specialised and skilled “volunteers” being put forward. Sam and Emma are going to make sure that enough wine is involved in the tour, so it’s a good job we’re not a temperance band anymore! If you know of any places in Holland that the band can play at, or have any contacts, we’d be more than happy to hear from you! We will keep you updated with any news of tour dates and locations!!

If you would like to recieve our newsletter...

Then please send your name and postal address to wigstonbrassband@hotmail.com

A Harding good welcome

The band are very pleased to announce 3 new members to the ranks. Alison, Pete and Abigail Harding have joined recently on Solo Cornet, Baritone and Backrow Cornet respectively.

A very warm welcome to our three new players - Profiles and dodgy photos on the way! (Alison has promised her holiday photos so watch this space!!).

Sleath's Been Rattled

Well we've always had our suspicions that Garry might actually know what he's doing, but he's only gone and won a national competition to show us what he's made of!!

Garry's day job is to be head of music at John Cleveland College in Hinckley, Leciestershire and he is always working non-stop making sure the students at the college are recieving the best music education around! There are a number of groups at the college, including Jazz band, Vocal Choir, Flute Choir, Clarinet Choir, Wind Qunitet to name a few, but recently the School Orchestra have been the ones in the news as they had reached the final of the National Festival of Music for Youth.

The high-achieving orchestra, under Garry's expert direction, has reached this final for quite a few years now, but had never actually managed to scoop the title. However this year was different and The JCC orchestra became National Champions of the festival making them the best School Orchestra in the country! Playing a 15 minute programme including a Selection from the musical Oliver and the very intense, mysterious and escalating March from the Pines of Rome, by Respighi, in what was a controversial but nevertheless award winning programme. Garry's orchestra took the title for 2006 recieving the award from Adjudicator Sir Simon Rattle!

We only get to see him after school - but we've come to realise that he's not bad really now is he?? Well done Mr. Sleath Sir!

Fayre's Fayre
Burbage Common - 14th May & Arnesday May Fayre

Well the outdoor playing season started with a bang, or more accurately started with a downpour. In true british style, there were country and village fairs showing their arts and crafts, selling their goods, soaking their local brass band!

As a kind introduction to the outdoor playing season, Wigston were lucky at Burbage to have a Gazebo keeping everyone but Principal Cornet, Flugel and Trombone dry! The rain held off for most of it and the crowds were treated to some fine brass music, not to mention a display of dogs with carts and a bee tent - not a spelling mistake, it was definately bees in there!

The traditional Arnesby May Fayre was busy as always with crowds flocking from all over the county. The rain this time managed to hold out right until the last piece finished, when it came down in bucket loads and some hail was thrown in for good measure forcing everyone to dive for cover. The joys of playing outdoors!

The band will be playing at a number of outdoor events over the summer including our annual trip to Melton Park, as well as Thurlaston Carnival and Foston Church. Let's hope that the weather is a little kinder to us.

On your Mark-s

He must have been inspired by the pure athleticism shown below in Ms. Luff, but Mark Cherry, husband of our First Horn Rachel, will also be running in order to raise some well needed funds!

Some of you will remember a charity concert performed by the Wigston Band last year in aid of Children's Brain Tumour Research, a charity that will always be close to the band's heart.

The University of Nottingham set up the Children’s Brain Tumour Research Centre in 1997 in response to the fact childhood tumours do not receive major research funds. The Centre has now begun a research programme to find out more about these fatal tumours so that far less damaging treatments can be developed.

Mark will be running alongside his mate Fraser in order to try and raise £1000 for this charity. So here's where you come in. We didn't think it would hurt to put a link on here to Mark's fundraising page Please click on the images below to open up a window with this page in.

Luff for Life...

Second Cornet extraordinare and have-a-go-harriet Emma Luff recently took part in the Cancer Research UK Race for Life raising money for this excellent charity.

Emma was originally running purely for the charity, but as a favour to me (The Webmaster), Emma agreed to run for Elma Ramplin, a superb lady who was a friend, fellow bandsperson and god-aunt if there ever was such a thing! (she was my sisters godmother). Elma, who played for the Long Eaton Silver band tragically lost her battle with bowel cancer on Good Friday this year. In tribute to a fellow bandsman, Emma ran her Race for Life in Derby earlier this month. Members of Elmas family will themselves be running the Leicester Race for Life in July, most of which also play for Long Eaton Silver band, including their conductor Sharon and Elmas daughters Melissa and Emma.

In preparation for the race, our Emma did two times around the block the night before, so was at the peak of her performance for the race.

Skittles are dangerous...EXCLUSIVE

Well I have been waiting for quite a few weeks now for Ian to write something about The Wigston Band skittles night recently held in The Crown in Wigston Magna, but nothing has materialised, so I have decided to write down all I know. Seeing as I didn't go to this, as Garry had me dragged away to play Jazz, all I can report is those that went to this social evening enjoyed themselves, apart from one person who shall remain nameless...but mixing alcohol and skittles can apparently make you fall down the stairs in the middle of the night...it must have been the skittles!

Seriously though, thanks to Phil Spray for organising the skittles social! If I had the faintest idea who won, I would tell you, it probably wasnt Steve though.

I .P. Freely
Social Reporter

Glorious Goodwood

The fair people of Goodwood bowls club once again hosted a concert for the band and once again provided superb facilities and grub! This concert gave the band an opportunity to dust off our sparkly silver waistcoats in the sell-out and rather warm concert hall.

A debut performance of a new piece for the band entitled "When the Saints" featuring Principal Cornet, Flugel, Tenor and Bass Trombone got feet tapping and even managed to drag Kay onto the Jazz bandwagon for just a moment (That girl got swing!). The waistcoats were donned by the soloists for this number, who were joined by the rest of the band for the second half of the programme...Snazzy.

Band Dinner 2006

Annual Dinner time again and this time The Shires pub and restaurant in Peatling Parva provided the location. Thanks to paul for organising us! A lovely evening was had by all, filled with competiveness in the competition to name the body parts from "band-freaks" in a photo quiz (see below) and plenty of food and drink, provided by the Shires!

The annual dinner also poses as the awards ceromony and this year awards and winners were as follows:

The Best Attendence Award went to Sam & Ian Hayto, well done guys! The Colin Hayto Most Improved Player Award went to Mandy Blankley, our Repiano and very own top-C machine. The Bandsperson of the year, nominated in a secret ballot by all band members, went to Karen Edwards, an all round top-lass!

Some special awards this year went to Rachel Cherry for her immaculate time-keeping and also to our blue-nail-varnished one-woman mexican wave and portable crowd filler, Chris. Williams for Groupie of the year!

First things first...

We have just recieved official confirmation from the Midlands Regional Committee that as from 1st January 2007, The Wigston Band will be promoted to the First Section of the national brass band championships, finishing top of the league table and the lowest total score (the lower the better)!!! There was some uncertainty about the number of bands being promoted this year from the 2nd to the 1st, however in line with the national rules, 4 bands will be promoted, as there are 3 bands tied in 2nd place.

1st. The Wigston Band, 15 points - promoted
2nd= Blidworth Hopkins Solicitors, 17 points - promoted
2nd= Foresters Brass 2000, 17 points - promoted
2nd= Shirland Welfare Training, 17 points - promoted
5th. Carlton Brass, 19 points

Two teas Phil...

A quick mention to say well done to all of the musicians taking part in the LBBA Open Solo and Quarter contest at Groby. TWB once again provided the catering, keeping all participants fed and watered. Thanks to all those who helped out and well done to Jack for playing on behalf of our band. Let's hope we can get a quartet or two together for the next one!!

Don't lose your Temperance...

This is an appeal for information with regard to the band's 104 year history. Recently, former President and life-time member of Wigston Band, Ray Cunnington, helped to go through some of the memorabelia of the band, recorded over its history. This includes newspaper cuttings, programmes, photos, histories about how the band started, lists of previous players dating back to the early part of the centry to name but a few. This is all in the process of gathering some form of publication together.

Due to the nature of a 104 year old organisation, not everybody who knows details of the history of the band is still alive, so we turn to you to ask if you can help us fill any gaps? Do you know anything regarding the history of the band that could help us? Do you think your father, mother, grandfather, great grandfather played in the band years ago? Any old photos? Anything you think may be of any use please get in touch.

We look forward to hearing from you.

The AGM Team...

The Wigston Band held its One Hundred and Fourth Annual General Meeting, at the bandroom in Blaby Road, South Wigston on Tuesday 22nd March. A quick look at the finances, reports and tales from the year from Secretary Alison and MD Garry provided a review of the year including our Qualification and trip to the national finals, player changes and some of his own personal highlights.

The new committee were voted in and they are....exactly the same as last year! So, to be all official, the 104th Committee of the Wigston Band is as follows:

President - Noel Sheehan
Vice President - Pam Ward
Junior Vice President - Vacant
Musical Director - Garry Sleath
Band Master - Karen Edwards
Secretary - Alison Raggett
Assistant Secretary - Phil Spray
Treasurer - Dave Spray
PR Officer - Kirk Turner
Liaison Officer - Mick Veasey
Committe Member - Mandy Blankley
Committe Member - Marion Horsburgh
Committe Member - Ian Hayto
Librarian- Paul Edwards

T.R.O.M.B.O.N.E.S

TROMBONES, a clever acronym for an amazing organisation that has come about following a tragedy. Tim, Kirk and of course Garry, are all involved in the John Cleveland College Jazz Band who were struck with a tragedy last July when a terrorist attack in Naama Bay, Egypt took the life of trombone player Matthew Fulham. Matt was a popular lad and a committed member of JCC Jazz Band, which has very close links with The Wigston Band.

There has been much media coverage surrounding the tragic loss of Matt's life, but I wanted to draw your attention to a website and an organisation that has been created in his honour, namely T.R.O.M.B.O.N.E.S, or The Relatives Of Murdered Britons Overseas Needing Emergency Support.

Visit www.matthewfulham.org for more information about Matt and this organisation. Please support where you can. Thanks.

Dan's on the BBC again...

UPDATE: Although Daniel unfortunately did not win the Radio 2 Brass Soloist prize, he was certainly a winner in our book! Two consecutive weeks on national radio, he truly was in a class of his own - Superb! A beautiful mature sound, with fingers so nimble we just don't know how he moves them so fast!! Well done Dan! Now, can you help us out a week on ..... :o)

Former Principal Horn of the Wigston Band, Daniel Powell, who now plays for the famous Brighouse and Rastrick band, has reached the Finals of the BBC Radio 2 Young Brass Soloist competition, to be held on Sunday 2nd April. Congratulations to Dan, who fought off stiff competition, including the talented Vicki Reynolds from Hathern Band.

Daniel performed renditions of Arthur Pryor’s ‘Bluebells of Scotland’ and the 'Finale' from Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto to win his place in the final. Daniels successes continue to grow and we wish him the very best of luck for the final in April. Two Tenor Horn players, a Bass player and a trombonist line up for the final, all of whom will be accompanied by the Black Dyke Mills Band - should be a good show!!

Area Contest ... and on the up...???

Drawn to perform last on stage....again...the band prepared itself to play Howard Snell's Images of the Millennium at a packed Burton upon Trent Town Hall for the Regional Championships of the Midlands Area. A section of 12 bands put up a fight against this truly difficult test. After the performance, the band packed away and rushed round to the front for the results from Adjudicators Stan Lippeat and Soprano legend Peter Roberts - The first time the Midlands has had 2 adjudicators! The results took a while to collate, but Stan was on form with the crowds once again!

Both adjudicators spoke about the test piece and the performances they had heard, agreeing that Images was difficult for all bands concerned. The results were anounced, starting with the fourth place going to the band that played number.......12! Wigston.

Third place awarded once again to Carlton, Second to Blidworth and First prize to Leicestershire band Foresters Brass 2000. Well done to Pete and the Foresters!

Wigston were pleased with the result and certainly made the most of the "brewery" town of Burton. Our fourth placing, along with the 2nd from last year means that we, from the 1st January (confirmation depending), are likely to be promoted once again to the First Section!!! A fantastic achievement for the band. We will however wait to hear the official news from the area committee, who are in charge of totalling up the points! We shall of course keep you informed.

Stone the crows...

Just in time for the Area, Wigston Band welcome the return of one of its former players Richard Stone. Richard had a stint at Enderby on Cornet, whilst his children continued to play in the Enderby Junior Band and now makes the move back on to 2nd Horn ready to play Images of the Millennium!

Welcome Welcome...

The Wigston Band warmly welcome two very experienced players into their ranks. Richard and Kay Hollingsworth join on Solo Euphonium and Solo Cornet respectively. After a short break in their playing careers, Richard and Kay join the band in time for the Area contest in March! Tony Mills has moved into the 1st Baritone seat allowing Derek Wadey to move off 2nd Baritone back to his preferred bit 'o' brass on BBb Bass! Welcome aboard Kay and Richard!

Butlins Mineworkers Open Competition...

A disappointing result from the Skyline Resort Butlins Competition where the band came 12th out of 18 playing Granville Bantock's "Prometheus Unbound". Although not such a fantastic result, the band made the most of the competition and facilities giving players the opportunity to hear some top section bands and to catch up with freinds and acquaintances in the banding world. All in all a good weekend was had by all, well done to the organisers for making it run so smoothly (Well done Mick and Ray!). Here are some photos from the weekend...(see Gallery for these photos)

New Year, New Room, New Faces...

After a rather tricky ending to 2005 losing our bandroom due to the closure of the Grand Hotel in South Wigston, 2006 is already looking up as we enter the contesting season at the beginning of the year. Butlins Mineworkers contest in January and The Regional Qualifying Championships again in March. We are hoping that we can do at least as well as last year!!

As you may have read in the Leicester Mercury in the special Boxing Day edition, the Congregational Church in South Wigston are currently provding a home for the band, coming to our rescue and providing us with storage and rehearsal facilities less than half a mile away from the band's previous facilities.

The beginning of 2006 also sees a number of new faces and a couple of position changes in the band as we welcome a string of new players! Steve Alexander moves over from Raunds Temperance Band on Soprano Cornet and Jack Maxwell, Claire Wilson and Emma Luff strengthen the ranks of the cornet benches. Following Eric's departure to University (learning something about roads) Mandy Blankley steps into his shoes and moves onto Repiano Cornet.

Louise Raggett, who has been associated with the band for many years, has joined the band on Tenor Horn, joining from the Ratby Band organisation. Derek Wadey's instrument has shrunk in the bath as he moves up from the depths of BBb Bass to 2nd Baritone and Andy Fenn makes a welcome return in time for the competition season on EEb Bass.

The Wigston Band warmly welcome all of its new members into our new home this new year as Garry makes us work towards Butlins and the Areas! Here's to 2006!

Fire at other Local Bandroom...

The Wigston Band send their sympathy and best wishes to Peter Vine and the members of the Rushden Town band who have recently lost, not only their bandroom but also their complete history of sheet music in a blaze which ruined the band's home. All of the local band's have offered support where possible, which is another example of how strong the brass band community is in the Midlands. We hope you manage to get back on your feet soon!

JOB UPDATE: Christmas Carolling
A Festive Thank you...

As all of the Christmas music is now collected in, the band would like to thank everyone who has supported us over the Christmas period. We hope you enjoyed the Carols in a whole host of different venues over Christmas, from Supermarkets to Police Stations and Churches to Street Playing. Thank you also to everyone who supported that band at our annual Christmas Concert in St. Thomas' Church in South Wigston. It was wonderful to see such a packed hall and congratulations to the lucky hamper winner.

Church comes to rescue in bandroom crisis...

No doubt you will have heard about our recent problems in losing the bandroom at the Grand Hotel, after nearly 15 years there.

We have been inundated with best wishes and support from people offering help in which ever way they can, ranging from the offer of garage space, support from members of themouthpiece.com rallying for our cause, as well as help from Liz Rockett and Andrew Whittaker of the Leicester Mercury and BBC Radio Leicester to name but a few. You may well have heard our President Noel Sheehan on the radio asking for support over the last few days too!

With all the inflicted chaos surrounding the move out of our 'old' bandroom, we have been unable to update you all until now. Following an appeal in the local paper and on the radio, members of the Congregational Church in South Wigston came to the rescue of the band in providing us with facilities to rehearse and store our equipment. Many, many thanks to everyone at the congregational church for their kind support.

Thank you also to everyone for all their well-wishes over this tricky period, it just goes to show what a great community the brass banding world is and also how the people of the local area value the band and were keen to support us. Thank you all!

Please be assured that all of our engagements will not be affected by the relocation of the band. We look forward to seeing some of you over the festive period. As soon as we know more about the long-term location of the Wigston Band, we will be sure to let you know!

Bandroom battle...

Article by leading Brass Band journalist Tabby Clegg...

The Leicestershire based Wigston band is at the centre of a major battle surrounding its rehearsal facilities and property. The band has been stunned to receive an order giving it just four days to remove its equipment and leave its bandroom.
The band, which has been renting a room above the Grand Hotel, Wigston for over 10 years, found out late on Saturday night (19 November) that it had until midnight on Thursday 24 November to clear all of its equipment from the room as the pub is to be closed and boarded up on Friday morning (25th). The band was further informed that if any equipment is left in the room after the deadline, the band will have to pay a substantial fee for the room to be unlocked or it will lose its property forever.

The eviction notice had not been sent by post to the band but instead was left in the bandroom doorway and was found by a player unexpectedly going to pick up his instrument on Saturday night. Under normal circumstances the room would not have been used until the regular Tuesday nights rehearsal.
The band moved into its rehearsal facilities (originally a ballroom) over 10 years ago having taken it over when it was derelict and had been unused for 40 years. The band then fully refurbished the room at its own expense, which has been an ongoing process with the recent addition of a music and instrument store and a completely refitted kitchen, as well as measures to improve the acoustics for rehearsal purposes.

Despite Wigston’s committee pleading with the pub’s owners, Punch Taverns Ltd., to delay until the weekend, the deadline remains fixed and immovable.

Said Ian Hayto of the band: “As the majority of the band’s members work during the day, this leaves very little time in the evenings for them to help recover the band’s and their own equipment. This includes all the fixtures and fittings as well as instruments, percussion equipment and music. Also in the bandroom is the priceless and irreplaceable archive of memorabilia from the entirety of Wigston’s 103 year history, as well as old photos of other Leicestershire bands which will also have to be removed and an appropriate place found to store them.”
Understandably, the band’s members and committee are disappointed and puzzled by the suddenness of this action. The band’s members had previously enjoyed a good relationship with the landlord, using the bar downstairs every Tuesday and Thursday for a post rehearsal drink and celebrating its contest successes with the landlord and staff.

Despite this major setback, the band has vowed to complete all its engagements for the busy Christmas period and will be competing at the Butlins Brass Band Festival and the Area Qualifying Championships in January and March respectively.
Said Ian Hayto: “The first priority is to find dry storage for as much equipment as we can retrieve in the time we have left. The band’s committee is unsure as to whether it has enough time remaining to recover all of the band’s property with the likelihood that some of the band’s more minor assets will have to be left in the room. The band is seeking help from a number of local companies with respect to their immediate storage problem and will be seeking any appropriate rehearsal facility on a short or longer-term basis, preferably within the Wigston area.”

If you can help Wigston Band’s plight in any way either with retrieving its property in the next few days or with storage or rehearsal facilities, please contact the band’s treasurer, Dave Spray on 07958 900914

JOB UPDATE: St. Mary's Church - Melton
Melton Mowbray, Saturday 22 October 2005

Well what a fantastic church for a concert! There are not many churches in the county that can say they have enough space for a brass band to sit and perform comfortably, but also with such a lovely acoustic. Hopefully we helped to raise some much-needed funds for the restoration of the Great West Window.

This was the band's first engagement following our trip to Harrogate for the National Finals. The disappointment of the Finals seemed to be forgotten and a great concert was performed with a rousing march opening the first half of the concert, followed by the atmospheric "You Raise Me Up". Emma and Phil Hales made band history, being the first Mr and Mrs to perform a trombone duet - they beautifully played "Softly As I Leave You".

During the interval, refreshments were provided, for a small donation, to help with costs and many members of the band enjoyed a glass of wine, or orange juice for the drivers amongst us.

The concert continued with a new piece of music for the band "Spirit of Adventure". "Mary Poppins" also made its debut and, if you were watching closely, you may well have seen the amusing sight of Richard (on Baritone) removing Sam's mute in a very short space of time and putting in back in a few bars later! (According to Sam, it was extremely difficult to remove the mute in 3 beats with her left hand, whilst preparing to play with her right, especially bearing in mind the bell of the instrument faces slightly to the right!).

Show music featured during the second half with "Lets Face the Music and Dance" and "Breezin' Down Broadway". Ian Hayto and Kirk Turner also performed solos during the concert, playing the beautiful folk tunes "My Ain Folk" and "Carrickfergus" respectively. Being in such an amazing place, Garry couldn't resist playing "Gaelic Blessing" (also played at this same church for Emma and Phil's wedding a couple of years ago).

Thanks to the guest players who helped out on such an enjoyable evening and we look forward to seeing the Great West Window restored to its former glory.

Report on the Finals...

Well done to everyone who took part in Wigston's first trip to the Finals in 40 years. A dissapointing result after a very very long day. Leeds Garforth Hotel did a sterling job in housing the band and thanks also to Fourway Coaches of Leeds in provding a bus, sorry I mean "corch" (quote Mrs. E).

After the trip to Harrogate International Conference Centre, news came at 2:30 that we were drawn to be the last band to play in the section, which meant we would be on stage at about 8 o'clock and meant a lot of waiting around. Eventually the time came to play and the band came off stage pleased with our performance, some quite nerved by the experience. Official photos of the band in stage uniform to follow - a blurry one below...

With Mick Veasey on the stage at results time, as band Representative, the Sponsors and Adjudicators had their say on the days proceedings, with adjudicator Phillip McCann saying that many of the bands struggled with the difficult test-piece and flippently that the winner of the day was Sir Arthur Bliss and Belmont Variations. The top six bands were announced, with St. Keverne band taking the title of Champion Band - congratulations to them. When the written remarks arrived on our performance, there were mixed and differing comments from both Phillip McCann and Steve Sykes. We achieved 13th place, out of 16, which could have been better, but the band were proud to have competed in the Finals representing Leicestershire and the Midlands. A great weekend was had by all - even with not such a fantastic resut. More photos and tales to follow...

Finals Update ...

Well...its not long now. Rehearsals are well underway practising the set test 'Belmont Variations' by Sir Arthur Bliss, arranged for brass band by Frank Wright. Saturday 24th September will see the Wigston Band compete in the National Finals for the first time in nearly 40 years and Musical Director Garry is busy preparing the band for the Finals competition.

A lot of hard work has gone into the preparation not only in the rehearsal room, but also behind the scenes, making sure the band have enough money to get there and somewhere to stay etc! Some local companies and supporters have kindly helped us on our way to Harrogate for the competition, for which the band is very grateful. A very warm thank you to the following…

Woods Coaches, All Saints Church Congregation, Leicester Co-op, United Biscuits, Leicester Merucry, Mr & Mrs Broadwell and many others who donated to our finals fund. Thanks also to those who participated in our Quiz, to Nev and Mandy for their sponsored Bike Ride and to Sam, Karen, Sue and Jackie a lovely spread on the cake stall.

JOB UPDATE: Church Concerts
Foston Church - Well what a glorious evening (even if it did get a little chilly towards the end of the concert) and what a glamorous setting, you can't get much better than in the grounds of a quaint 10th century church. The audience were extremely receptive (as usual) and they found the time to enjoy the music whilst taking a break from their picnic and wine. Unfortunately our resident MD was not available, however Huw Thomas, MD at Enderby Band very kindly stepped into his place for the evening. The summer programme of music made its appearance again, with a few changes and with a little persuasion Phil Spray took to the soloists stand to play the euphonium solo Largo Al Factotum. In his rush from work (which incidentally was at Edgbaston in Birmingham watching the cricket!) one of our cornet players forgot their black trousers. So the new trend is now jeans with white shirt, bowtie and blue Wigston Band jacket.

All Saint's Church, Wigston - Back under the baton of Garry Sleath, the band made the short journey up the road from the Band Room to All Saint's Church. The layout of the band for this concert was quite unusual due to the limited space available - extremely strange to have the baritones behind the front row cornets and next to the second cornets and the percussion, basses and euphoniums forming what seemed like a long line down the aisle. A good performance was provided for the extremely attentive and receptive audience with soloists including Tony Mills on euphonium, Ian Hayto on Flugel and Kirk Turner on cornet.

St Catherine's Church, Burbage - Finishing the trio of concerts, the band travelled to Burbage, home to at least 3 members of the band to play in St. Catherine's church performing one of our best concerts of the year so far. The band were definitely helped on by the beautiful acoustic and a number of people asked for a second rendition of "You Raise Me Up" which was a favourite of the audience - listen out for our new CD recorded later in the year for a possible second chance!

Oh Danny Boy...

Just in case you haven't heard, former Wigston Principal Horn player Daniel Powell, recently joined the world famous Brighouse and Rastrick band. After a stint at Leyland Band, whilst studying at the Royal Northern, Daniel has made the move over to 'Briggus' who once topped the chart with the Floral Dance. Wigston wish Dan well with his new band!

WARNING Extreme Pensioner...

If I said extreme sports for pensioners, you'd probably think I was joking and no I don't mean David down the bowls club either! In aid of the charity Wishes for Kids, band friend and supporter Maureen Fisher decided that for her 70th birthday that she'd throw herself out of a plane for fun and raise money for a good cause at the same time!! Sources report that Maureen managed to raise nearly £900 for the charity but also managed to raise a few eyebrows as well. Maureen completed her tandem skydive at the Hinton Skydiving Centre and hopes for her 75th to perhaps tackle a wing walk! Maureen you must be bonkers!! Congratulations on your big jump!

Brass Band Aid...

Bob Thompson, one of the founder members of Brass Band Aid has asked us to help promote this new fundraising initiative after his daughter Briony had an idea about having a celebrity band and conductor raising money for organisations such as Make Poverty History. The Brass Band aid initiative now has its own website and is attracting a lot of national interest. The BBA website can be found by clicking on their logo below. Please take the time to support this worthwhile initiative, whose CD is now available.

JOB UPDATE: Narborough Parade & Concert

Sunday 24 July 2005

Blaby District Council Thanksgiving Parade and Service to Commemorate the end of World War II.

Well it was another day of extreme weather, only this time it was cold and very, very wet. A few of the band assembled at St Pious Church in Narborough in anticipation of the parade being cancelled. Some of the veterans and the ATC, among those present, decided to parade as they were already soaked through! Unfortunately the worsening weather meant the band did not take part. Instead whilst the parade and the band's nominated "bugler" made their way to the church service at All Saints Church, the rest of the band made their way to the Council Offices to set up for the concert and a chance to catch up with an ex player, Daniel who seemed quite at home telling of his experiences at Brighouse and Rastrick Band.

After the service, the congregation arrived and the concert began. After our first piece had been played the organisers decided to hold some presentations so that the serving of the superb tea put on was not delayed too long. After a couple of pieces, helped along by the flowing wine, people thought it would be nice to ask for requests, not always possible, but we were able to please someone by playing Happy Birthday. Well the band certainly seemed pleased to finish, a few minutes late, however not surprisingly as there was food involved and I'm sure everyone did a great job of finishing off what was left!

JOB UPDATE: Melton Park Bandstand

Sunday 10 July 2005

Phew what a scorcher of a day and we had to sit and entertain the crowds! Mind you they all knew what to do, sitting in a large circle around the edge of the park under the trees, trying to find a bit of shade - still the kids didn't find it too hot to run around in the play area.

Despite the extreme weather, a great concert was put on and not a guest player in sight (not often you can say that these days!). The usual summer concert material made an entrance again, with an addition to the playlist of a euphonium solo by Tony Mills. This unfortunately did not go quite as well as it should have, the audience didn't seem to notice, but I guess we can safely say we will be rehearsing that piece before its next public outing!!

For the official photo at the end of the concert, it was extremely difficult to don the stage jackets, but if you take a look at the picture on the home page, I'm sure you will agree it was worth it. All we need to do know is find our cornet player a hand to put out of her jacket sleeve - any suggestions?

JOB UPDATE: Thurlaston Carnival

Sunday 11 June 2005

Well this buzzing village carnival started with a "short parade" (oh dear). Well OK, it was fairly short, but no-one mentioned the hill up to the carnival ground! The parade led by Filbert Fox included floats from various local organisations, school children and oh yes, us. Tony Mills did a sterling job on the bass drum, even if he didn't always keep it on the beat (known on the march as "by the left"). Never again should we hear him complain about the basses playing not quite on the beat!

A short 20 minute concert in the main arena followed, in competition with the music over the tannoy, I think we won that one! There was an hour long break then to our second half, so the band dispersed to go their own ways in search of the tea tent, or in some cases the cream teas or beer tent.

The highlight of the afternoon was the arrival of the Air Ambulance, which caused havoc when it landed as the grass on the carnival ground had been mowed in the run up to the carnival. Yes it went everywhere - it was quite amusing to see everyone looking in awe as the helicopter landed in close range and then people suddenly turning their backs as they realised they were going to get a mouthful of grass if they stayed where they were.

JOB UPDATE: Arnesby May Fayre

Monday 30 May 2005

Again, it looked as if the weather was going to be against the band on this bank holiday job. There were dark clouds and heavy rain when the curtains were pulled back in the morning, however by lunchtime it had stopped raining and the clouds were starting to clear. By the time everything was set up and the band seated, ready to start playing at 1:00 pm outside the Village Hall in Arnesby, sunglasses were needed as there was hardly a cloud in the sky (what a relief!).

It turned out to be quite a scorching afternoon and a fairly light and entertaining programme was provided to the audience who were sat outside the Village Hall with their tea and cakes and ice creams (couldn't find the Mr Whippy ice cream van though during the interval break!). With the hooting from the train which was doing the rounds of the village, if you closed your eyes you could have imagined yourself by the sea (wishful thinking). Stalls were all around the village streets in abundance, selling bric a brac, clothing, antiques, basically anything you could think of, someone was selling. As the end of our second half drew near, the dark clouds started to gather but fortunately it didn't amount to anything other than a slightly cooler temperature.

A special thanks must go to all of the guest players who helped us out and did a superb job, I think there were more guests than Wigston players, but at the end of the day it went well. Thanks also to our own players who not only swapped around which parts they play, but also changed instruments for the day.

Band raises £500 for Tumour Charity...

The Wigston Band is proud to support the fundraising efforts of our 1st Horn player Rachel and her family. At 7:30pm on Saturday 7th May the Wigston Band performed a Charity Concert in aid of Children's Brain Tumour Research. Following the diagnosis of Rachel's son Samuel having a brain tumour in early 2004, this particular charity is very close to the band's heart.

Pioneering research into Childhood Brain Tumours is being undertaken by the CBTR centre at Nottingham University, research which receives no national funding and relies solely on donations and goodwill of organisations and the public.

During the evening, the band raised £500 for this extremetly worthwhile cause, which has gone directly to the Children's Brain Tumour Research Centre.

Although the concert has passed, you can still help us to raise money, by making a donation. Please get in touch with the band through email if you would like to help! Thank you.

Harrogate here we come...

Article from "Bum Notes" - The newsletter of Wigston Band

There is a fair chance you will have heard that Wigston Band is heading to the National Finals in September, for those of you that haven't heard this excellent news, let me tell you how it came about. On Saturday March 12th, the band travelled to Burton on Trent to take part in the Second Section of the Midlands Regional Brass Band Championships. All bands across the country take part in their own 'area' contest and there are two or three bands in each section that are chosen to represent their area at national level. Wigston Band came 2nd on the day after playing 'Variations for Brass Band' by Vaughn-Williams, which was the set test for this year. In coming second, we achieved qualification for the National Finals, for the first time in nearly 40 years!! - a huge achievement for the band.

Well now you know how we got our place there, now we just need to figure out how we will get there!! As you can well imagine, taking the 30-strong band and all of our kit to Harrogate for the weekend is going to be costly and we are currently raising money to get the band to the 'Finals' competition, which is to be held on 24th September. The fund-raising is taking shape in many forms, such as quizzes, sponsored cycle rides (Well done Nev!) and extra concerts amongst other things. We are also looking to local companies in Wigston to see if any of them can offer support to their local band, when we represent Wigston, Leicestershire and the Midlands in September. If you feel you can help in anyway, please get in touch.

JOB UPDATE: Hollycroft Park / Sunday 8 May 2005

Unfortunately the weather was not kind to everyone who turned out for this concert to celebrate the 60th anniversary of VE Day. This however did not stop the 150/200 people who dared to brave the weather, sat huddled in rain coats and blankets, against walls to keep away from the wind, umbrellas at the ready, the audience were entertained by an afternoon of music from the 1940's including old classics such as 'The White Cliffs of Dover', 'We'll meet again' and 'Miller Magic' to name but a few.

The band were fortunate enough to entertain from under a covered stage and were thankful of this, especially when the heavens opened suddenly on a couple of occasions during the afternoon. Despite the weather it was satisfying to see the audience singing along and especially poignant to see everyone standing tall and to attention, remembering family, friends and colleagues during the national anthem at the end of the afternoon.

Dinnertime!

The Annual Band Dinner also took place on Friday 1st April at the Manor Restaurant in Glen Parva. Thanks to David for organising another great evening. The band dinner provides an opportunity for the band to give thanks to those who run and support the band over the previous year and a token of thanks from the Musical Director was presented to each of the committee members and the annual band awards were presented.

Bandsman of the Year and also Most Improved Player of the year went to Principal Cornet Kirk Turner. Garry described the move up from Repiano to Principal as being "a very large hole to fill that Graham had left". Graham, who was making a very welcome appearance for the annual dinner contested that he doesn't make a habit of leaving big holes where he sits. Kirk was awarded the "Colin Hayto Memorial Shield" for most improved player, kindly donated by Colin's family. Best attendance for 2004-2005 went to Ian Hayto in holding up his end of the horn section.

Other presentations were made to Bruce for being voted "Best Registration Card photo" and to Karen for winning the caption competition, which seemed a bit of a fix as she thought up the idea in the first place!! Health warnings prevent us from displaying Brucey's picture, but you'll have to trust us on that one!

AGM 2005

The 2005 Annual General Meeting was held on Tuesday 22nd March at the Bandroom in South Wigston. Chaired by Band President Noel Sheehan, a review of the previous year's events and of course scrutiny of the financial comings and goings took place. This also gave the band a chance to reflect on recent successes at the Leicester Contest and most importantly the Area Contest a few weeks previously. A review of the ups and downs of the year was delivered impeccably by Secretary Alison Raggett, to whom the band expressed their extended thanks and rapturous applause!! The musical director being absent on this occasion sent an unreadable transcript of his thoughts and feelings, so Karen did a sterling job of translating them for everyone.

The election of the committee for 2005/2006 was as follows:

President - Noel Sheehan
Vice President - Pam Ward
Musical Director - Garry Sleath

Secretary - Alison Raggett
Assistant Secretary - Phil Spray
Treasurer - Dave Spray
Bandmaster - Karen Edwards
Public Relations Officer - Kirk Turner
Liaison Officer - Mick Veasey

Committee Member - Mandy Blankley
Committee Member - Marion Horsburgh
Committee Member - Ian Hayto

Librarian - Paul Edwards

THE FINALS COUNTDOWN...

Well what a day!!!!! Chances are you will know already, but on Saturday 12th March The Wigston Band qualified for the National Brass Band Finals to be held in Harrogate in September!!!!!

Drawn, by the steady hand of Mrs. Edwards,to play number 9 the band performed the set test piece of 'Variations for Brass Band' by Ralph Vaughn Williams coming 2nd place out of 14 in the Midlands Regional Competition (Second Section) achieving qualification for the Nationals for the first time in nearly 40 years!!!

The band have been hard at work contesting since late last year with a great result in the First Section at Leicester, coming runners up, followed by a very disappointing result at the Butlins Mineworkers Contest in January.

Hours of hard work by Garry and all of the band has really paid off at the 'Area' and the band are now excitedly looking forward to representing the Midlands at the Nationals in September. Truly a special achievement for the band, with quite a few of our players never having played in the finals before, some of them however managed to play at the one with the band 40 years ago!!

Congratulations to all of the band and especially to Garry. Thanks to him for all of his hard work - Here's to the finals in September!! Congratulations also to Shirland MW Training Band who gave an outstanding performance to become Midlands Champion Band for the Second Section and will also be representing the Midlands in September.

Top 4 results announced were as follows... *Qualify for the National Finals

1 - Shirland Miners Welfare Training*
2 - The Wigston Band*
3 - Carlton Brass
4 - Foresters Brass 2000

Butlins 2005 ...

The contest result was very disappointing after a very pleasing performance, but nevertheless the band had a great time at the Open Mineworkers Brass Band Contest held at Butlins in Skegness. Our very own Mick Veasey was one of the organisers (and indeed encouraged our band to go) and Mick, along with the rest of the organisers headed up by Stan Lippeat, did a tremendous job in facilitating a brilliant weekend for all bands involved.

Some members of the band stayed onsite and were 'wowed' by the spectacular show from the Championship Entertainment Section the following day. Not disheartened by the result from this contest, the band are now working hard for this year's area contest coming up in March.

A Firestorm at Leicester..!

Well there may have been only a few of the band left in the hall to hear the cheers and rapturous applause (the rest of them had already gone off to the Chinese restaurant!!) but at the LBBA contest on Sunday, The Wigston Band achieved 2nd place in the First Section !!!!! after performing "Firestorm" by Stephen Bulla.

A huge success for the band!! This has come as a really encouraging achievement for the band, as we go into the 2nd Section from January 2005, following not so brilliant results at the last two regional competitions! Strengthened in the ranks by some new players the band are now looking forward to upcoming competitions in the new year!.

The Mayor of the Borough of Oadby and Wigston was there to support the event and present the prizes and was very pleased to see his local band collecting the Jack Peberdy Trophy, Certificate and Prize Money!!!

The band were already planning a meal out, whatever the result, so a huge cheer bounced around the restaurant as the trophy and remaining players arrived to announce the good news!!!!

New Faces at Wigston..!

We are very pleased to announce that we have recently had the good fortune of a number of new signings to the band.

We warmly welcome into the band John Hill on Cornet, Paul and Sue Williamson on Cornet and Tenor Horn respectively, Lisa Rymer on Tenor Horn, Richard (Rick) Williams on Baritone and Mandy and Lee Blankley on Cornet and Eb Bass respectively. Everyone is already in the swing of things rehearsing for the upcoming Leicester (LBBA) contest at the end of November.

Following tough times for the band, after some members of the band re-located with work and university, or retired due to ill health, the band is once again thriving both socially and musically under Garry's musical direction and flair!

We are now looking forward to upcoming concerts and competitions with the new line up. To reach our full compliment, we are continuing to look for a Solo Horn, Soprano and Bb Bass - so if you think you might be able to fill one of these positions, please get in touch, through email or through our Secretary Alison on Leicester 2877187.

Driving Miss Daisy...

Congratulations to our Bass Trombone player Tim Emberson on passing his driving test!!! All those trips back and forth to band seemed to have paid off! Well done Tim, who no doubt is now happily playing taxi to his mates! Those members of the public who may be concerned at the thought of Tim being let loose, please ring our helpline number on 0845.......

Band On Parade...

The Wigston Band recently took part in its only marching enagagment of the year to participate in this years festival of Remembrance.

The Band marched through the streets of Wigston Magna to All Saints Church where we took part in the service, playing a number of hymns and the sounding of the Last Post and Reveille. The band were again proud to be part of this occasion to remember those who have given thier lives during all wars in both this and the last century.

The Remembrance Day Service was one of number of recent engagaments for the band, who have also recently performed to a very enthusiastic and appreciative audience at St Margerets Bowls Club in Leicester as well as a joint concert with the 'Magna Music Makers' in the beautiful setting of St. Mary's church in Queniborough. We have a number of concerts and carolling engagements still to come this year and some already booked well into 2005!! One in particular being our Free, yes Free Christmas Concert in Wigston on 16th December. Please check the diary for details.

www.Banding..?

For something a little different on wigstonbrassband.com we are featuring an article on the rise of brass banding on the internet...

The rise of the internet is a well documented phenomenon, with a seemingly endless availability of websites covering a huge spectrum of subjects. Brass players too have plenty of choice as most instrument-makers, music publishers, brass bands and even some players have their own websites. In this melee of brass related sites two have emerged as frontrunners in terms of content and popularity - 4barsrest.com and theMouthpiece.com.

Although unrelated, both sites hail from the same part of the world - South Wales and both are enjoying increasing success and gaining credibility. Both sites can happily co-habit as they essentially offer different services.

4barsrest is a news related website which aims to ... [MORE]

Pyro and Pomp...

By C Raggett

It started on Friday evening, when the Band played a marvelous concert at Launde Abbey in aid of 'The Friends of Launde Abbey'. As many people know the Abbey is only open one weekend each year and to be asked to play a concert there in aid of Abbey Funds is a privilege, which The Wigston Band has been happy to undertake for a number of years.

This year we were also approached by the Mayor of Nuneaton and Bosworth and asked to play at the 'Picnic Proms' concert at Bosworth Water Trust in aid of the Lord Mayor's Appeal on what turned out to be a chilly but bright August evening.

In a beautiful setting overlooking the lake, the band thrilled the audience with a mixture of music from the traditional brass band march 'Florentiner' (as featured in the film 'Brassed Off), through to Big Band , Swing, Show tunes, as well as the Classics to name but a few. Included in the programme were fine solos from Kirk Turner who played 'Nessum Dorma' and Ian Hayto who played 'The Folks Who Live On The Hill'. The evening also featured Daniel Powell in his last concert with the band before he goes to the Royal Northern School of Music in September. Daniel played the Tenor Horn Solo 'Somewhere Over The Rainbow'.

The whole concert was brought to a thrilling climax and a true 'Last Night of the Proms' style finish with renditions of 'You'll Never Walk Alone', Jerusalem', 'Fantasia on British Sea Songs' and the traditional March from 'Pomp and Circumstance' featuring Land of Hope and Glory. The announcement in the middle of this, that Kelly Homes had when her second gold medal as well as the Men's Relay Team winning gold brought the audience once again to their feet and with fireworks timed to perfection, provided by Jonathan's Fireworks Ltd. the concert was bought to a truly awe-inspiring close after a further three encores!!!

He's Shaw to do it again..!

Well he's done it again, he must have the luck of the draw!! Our former Principal Cornet player Graham has gone and won the monthly 200 Club again!! A full list of those lucky lucky people over recent months...

APRIL: 1st Prize M Ford (070), 2nd Prize J Spray (025)
MAY: 1st Prize M Stowe (058), 2nd Prize E Edwards (089)
JUNE: 1st Prize I Hayto (092), 2nd Prize M Parsley (034)
JULY: 1st Prize M Stowe (058), 2nd Prize S Robinson (037)
AUGUST: 1st Prize G Shaw (077), 2nd Prize M Veasey (071)

If you would like to be in with a chance of a win on the band's 200 Club please email the band with your contact details to arrange your lucky number!! At only £2 a month- have you any excuse not to?- and its all in a good cause!

University Challenged...

The band this week said farewell and good luck t