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 Phoenix Brass (Crewkerne)

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16-Aug-2008

 A Band Wedding

Yes, at 2 o'clock, Matt (Principal Cornet) and Lynda (Tenor Horn) were married at St Mary's Church, Beaminster.  The service was conducted by the rector, Rev. Ken Masters and the music was provide us (Phoenix Brass).  Twenty minutes of music was provide before the service including, Light as Air - Richards, As Time Goes By - Hupfield, an excerpt from "Jesus Christ Superstar" - Lloyd Webber and Beauty and the Beast.  The bride entered the church to a movement from Handel's "Water Music".  During the signing of the  register, the band played The Irish Blessing and A Special Place - Goff Richards.  The couple left the church to the triumphant sound of Mendelssohn's Wedding March.  It was a shame about the rain, but the couple still looked very happy.

03-Feb-2008

 Gloucestershire Brass Band Association Entertainment Contest, Royal Forest of Dean College, Coleford

In Crewkerne and surrounding areas, brass players were waking early to join a coach. It started at Yeovil and picked players up at Crewkerne, Chard and Taunton before heading north, crossing the Severn Bridge to the 'Land of My Fathers' and then heading north to Coleford in the Forest of Dean.  On arrival, one could here the playing of junior bands.  This was a section for bands that do not normally contest.  The open section in which we were entered started at 14:30 and we drew fifth.  It was compered by David Hayward using material supplied about the music from each band.  If there had been a prize for the best "Googler", Phoenix would have won that for the material that Paul Slator supplied.  Our programme of 

The Devil's Bridge - Darrol Barry
My Love is Like a Red Red Rose - Trad/Langford
     Solo: Matt Read
Mack the Knife - Weill/Richards
Dem Bones - Langford
     Trio: Dave Bulgin, Michelle Cleal & Ian McLaren
A Klezmer Karnival - Spark

went down well with the audience.  But what did the adjudicator think. Well, Phoenix
1) won the best soloist - well done Matt
2) were the most entertaining band
3) were the best 2nd section band, and
4) 2nd overall

Mid-Rhodda were first and Tylerstown were third.

The players all went home very satisfied with their performance!

03-Nov-2007

 South West Brass Band Association Contest, Torquay

The contest results as reported in 4barsrest were as follows:

1. St Stythians (Derek Jonston) - 188pts
2. Soundhouse Brass (Gary Pumford) - 187pts
3. South Molton Town (Terry Treherne) - 186pts
4. Phoenix Brass (Crewkerne) (Paul Slator)
5. Michelmerch Silver (Lawrence Bulchart)
6. Torbay Brass (Barry Cole)
Best Instrumentalist: Euphonium Player with Michelmersh Silver.

23-Nov-2007

 Huish Episcopi School Hall

Stan Jones was impressed with both the band's performance and attitude to playing at the recent Exmouth Entertainment Contest.  As a result, he and Somerton Rotary Club have arranged a concert at Huish Episcopi School Hall on Friday 23rd November.  The proceeds will be shared by Rotary charities and the band. 

01-Sep-2007

 Exmouth Entertainment Contest

We all packed and were then on our way to Exmouth with our Bucket and Spades.  This was the annual Entertainment Contest held every year in The Pavilion in Exmouth.  There are  also fringe concerts held in the gardens of the Pavilion all day.  For the last eight years the weather has been fantastic but the clouds were about this year.  When the bands started to play outside at 10:30, the clouds lifted and the crowds gathered, with well over a 1,000 people listening to the 14 bands playing through out the day, solely for the audience's enjoyment.  We played outside at 15:15 to a now packed audience.  We started with Florentiner March and then our star Flugel player Julie Bulgin played a solo, The Way We Were.  As always this was played to the highest standard but when Julie finished, the audience applauded with great enthusiasm while Julie's knees still knocked!.  Phoenix then played Funiculi-Funicula Rhapsody arranged by American Michael J Garasi.  This brought the cars to a standstill along the main road as this piece is full of gusto.  The mood was then calmed down to the beautiful sounds of John Woods playing Myfanwy.  Then swing time arrived as our Award Winning (but more of this later) Trombone Section playing a Trombone Trio called Dem Bones.  This featured Dave Bulgin, Michelle Cleal and Caron Lisett.  The crowd went wild with their playing.  Then followed our last piece for the fringe concert outside, the Clog Dance. The length of the clapping from the audience after we played almost made my beer to go flat.  This was a good rehearsal for our main event of the Concert when we were to play at 17:30, Phoenix being the penultimate band of the main contest.  We played nearly the same programme of music inside with Julie Bulgin again wowing the knowledgeable audience in her second rendition of the day of, The Way We Were.  Funiculi-Funicula was also a great hit as Phoenix are one of only a three bands in the country to have this music.  Myfanwy was played again to calm the audience down before we went into the Gallop from William Tell.  Particular mention must go to our Principal Cornet Matt Read for his excellent playing of the very tricky Cornet Solo within William Tell.  Well done Matt.  When the results were awarded, Phoenix won the Best 2nd Section Band prize at the Contest, beating some very fine bands.  Phoenix were also awarded the prize for the Best Trombone Section at the Contest.  No mean feat as they beat 13 other bands including 1st and Championship Section bands and didn't play a specifically featured item.  Overall we came 4th out of 14 bands; our best result to date at this Contest.  A huge confidence boost for Paul Slator and all at Phoenix.  The hard work does pay off, you know. A good family day was had by all in Exmouth which is well worth a visit if you haven't yet been to this Contest.

Results

1

 Lanner & District Silver (Colin Toghill)

2

 Heyl Town (Derek Johnston)

3

 Lympstone South West Telecoms (Charles Fleming)

4

 Phoenix Brass (Crewkerne) (Paul Slator)

5

 Soundhouse Brass (Mike Faro)

6

 South Molton Town (Terry Treherne)

7

 Sidmouth Town (Adrian Harvey)

8

 Torbay Brass (Barry Cole)

9

 Tiverton Town (Gilbert Taylor)

10

 Camelford Town (Ann Brown)

11

 City of Exeter Railway (Richard Evans/Colin Dance)

12

 Bideford Town (Gary Taylor)

13

 Appledore Silver (John Croker)

14

 Callington Town (Paul Boase)

 Withdrawn - Brixham Town

08-Jul-2007

 "First Summer Outing"

Yes, again at Barrington Court somewhere in Somerset.  Those of us travelling from the south coast had had to take diversions down narrow country lanes because of accidents.  However we arrived and the sun was shining brightly.  What a pity we were to be playing in the small marquee.  However the sun worshippers and those used to living under canvas had the sides rolled up pretty dam quick.

However, the moment Paul raised his baton, the drizzle started.  It didn't last long for it was fast replaced by torrential rain.  Which was the louder, the rain on the canvas of the trombone section?  After a few more numbers, the band retired to the house where it played "Happy Birthday" for the National Trust in its 100th year at Barrington Court.

By now the rain had ceased and after a photocall on the stairs (photograph), something to drink and a piece of birthday cake, we went to play again.  And then; the torrential rain commenced.  Dare we come back to Barrington for its village fête?

Jul-2007

 Changes of Personnel

The band’s member list is quite long at the moment, many of whom have been members for a long time. This is very settling and has allowed us to become an established team. This, in my opinion, is coming through in our performance. We have got just two additions to tell you about. One is Jim Parker, who has joined on percussion. He is an excellent player and a rather nice chap. We are pleased to have him on board and hope that he will remain with us for a while, as that percussion spot has had many visitors in our relatively short history!

The next new face is actually an old face, meaning an ex member returned and not someone who is 102 years old! Marie Osborne was a founder member, along with her husband Tony. They left us about 4/5 years ago when they moved house and started playing for Thornbury Band. This was a brief stop, with Marie and Tony eventually playing for Yeovil Band. We have stayed in touch over the years and were thrilled when Marie wanted to return at the beginning of this year. Unfortunately Marie’s old seat on solo baritone was occupied, by the male half of our husband and wife baritone section, Tom Lissett. We offered Marie a seat on Ist horn as we knew her presence would boost the section. Marie agreed to have a go for the Area Contest in March and she got on so well, she decided to stay. It’s great to have her back, both musically and personally.

Jan Preston on cornet will be taking a back seat for now as the life of a primary school teacher is proving to be hectic. Along with further studies and moving house she doesn’t expect to have much time for practice—I can’t see why!

06-Jun-2007 Concert at Bridport United Church

For the second time the band visited Bridport.  The programme this time was:

Fanfare and Flourishes ……… James Curnow

Selection from "Oklahoma" ……… Richard Rodgers / Alan Catherall

Simon and Garfunkel Melodies ……… arr. Frank Bryce

Paraphrase of "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot" ……… Wallis Willis / John J. Morrissey
Trombone: Dave Bulgin

The Young Amadeus ……… Tom Parker arr. Jan De Haan

Batman The Movie ……… Danny Elfman / Alan Catherall

Interval

Tone Poem: "The Kingdom Triumphant" ……… Eric Ball

Hymn: As the Deer Pants Martin ……… Nystrom / David G. Baldwin

Moondance ……… Van Morrison / Stephen Brodie

Tuba Smarties ……… Herbie Flowers / Denzil S Stephens
Tuba: Colin Gardiner

The Irish Blessing ……… Joyce Eilers Bacak / Stephen Bradnum

A Klezmer Karnival ……… Philip Sparke

The audience of over 100 were delighted with both the programme and performance.  Fanfare and Flourishes let the building ring with sound from the band's crisp and dynamic playing.  Oklahoma and Simon and Garfunkel Melodies provided music with which the audience was familiar.  Throughout the concert, the dialogue of Paul Slator explaining the background to the music was attentively and well received.

The second half of the performance started with the players choice, "The Kingdom Triumphant".  Having successfully use it at a recent own choice contest, all of the players wanted to play again the music they had so much enjoyed rehearsing.  This showed in the enthusiasm and dynamic range they gave to this item.  It contrasted with The Irish Blessing which one professional musician was heard to remark upon the quality of quiet playing.

Both the band and the audience had an extremely enjoyable evening and all hope that there will be a similar event in 2008.

Webmaster

20-May-2007 Weston-Super-Mare Own Choice Contest - other views and results

 

Result Band Points Conductor Draw Test Piece
1 Portishead Town 187 Ian Dickenson 5 Variations on a Ninth - Vinter
2 Tylorstown Arriva Trains 185 Gary Davies 6 Un Vie De Matelot
3 Gillingham Imperial Silver 184 Alan MacRae 4 Purcell Variations - K Downie
4 Phoenix Brass (Crewkerne) 183 Paul Slator 2 The Kingdom Triumphant, Ball
5 Briton Ferry 182 Christian Jenkins 7 The Plantagenets, Gregson
6 Rogerstone 181 Brian Buckley 1 Blackfriars - Arr. Frank Wright
7 Ynyshir Welfare 180 D Evans 3 Aeronauts, Goff Richards
8 Lydment Lydney W/D Colin Hogg W/D  
9 South Molton Town W/D Terry Treherne W/D  

Comment from "themouthpice.com" by the "MusicMan" was as follows:-

Wonderfully controlled entry and crescendo by the percussion, but the trombones are just slightly out of tune. Cornets - excellent!!

Sorry to be critical - but I hear a band out a balance - cornets seem to be over the top of the rest of the band... not balanced!! The short Cornet solo though is very expressive and well played and builds into some well phrased and controlled 'mood' music!

The 'Carol' section sounds gorgeous! The balance is now much improved with wonderfully clear horn playing. Trombones much better as well now...

I hear lots of short individual solo lines - all very well played and this is well rehearsed, well done. Nervous horn though... don't be nervous, you can do it! Muted cts very good and Trombone entry is pitch perfect, well done band... lovely discords are heard. So far this is a good all-round performance - but there are some balance issues heard in places.

Personally, I'd like to have heard more Bass sound through slow middle section, I still hear the cornets over the top of everything else - but that's just me, and I am not the adjudicator

Finale is well played with gorgeous sounds.

In summary - I'd have to say you are in with a shout of a podium place, but the performance was somewhat inconsistent. Sometimes I heard excellent sounds and soloists, other times I heard balance issues with cornets over the top of the remainder of the band. Just my opinion... Thanks.

20-May-2007 Weston-Super-Mare Own Choice Contest - player's perspective

We didn't have many rehearsals for this contest.  With Paul Slator, our MD being on holiday the week before it was not surprising that we had our final rehearsal in the Community Centre at East Brent on the morning of the contest.  The chosen test piece was the Tone Poem - The Kingdom Triumphant by Eric Ball.  This piece was quite unusual in that all the players without exception really enjoyed playing it and most would want to feature it in forthcoming concert programmes.  The only element of doubt about its selection was the duration.

After the rehearsal, we all travelled down to the Winter Gardens where we fulfilled out number 2 draw leaving the stage proud of the performance that we had made and with some degree of expectation that we could be "in the frame".

11-Mar-2007 West of England Regional Championships, Torquay

We has to get up early this year as our section started at 10:00.  Yes, we were all outside Torquay Girls Grammar School by 08:30 (including Mike) and playing hymn tunes woke us all up.  And then we achieved the best result we have ever had in this section.  This is what 4barsest had to say.

   

"Phoenix put up the first real marker of the contest. From the number 3 draw they produced a confident opening ‘Cavalcade' followed by a slightly uncomfortable ‘Pavane' and neatly controlled ‘Burlesque', that perhaps kept something back too much in reserve. It was a pretty good performance nonetheless (we had them 6th) and if they had just let their hair down at the end they may have just squeezed into the qualification places."

 

20-Dec-2006 Carols at Sainsburys Again

We has to get up early this year as our section started at 10:00.  Yes, we were all outside Torquay Girls Grammar School by 08:30 (including Mike) and playing hymn tunes woke us all up.  And then we achieved the best result we have ever had in this section.  This is what 4barsest had to say.

   

Is he a real Phoenix player?

 

04-Nov-2006 South West Brass Band Association Contest, Torquay

It was an early start for the band with a rehearsal booked for 10.30 in Torquay.  Donna Williams, wife of soprano player Lloyd Williams went to witness the draw where the order of play was determined. Phoenix were to play second - not the best draw as it meant rushing from rehearsal to the Riviera Centre ready to perform.  Luckily it was only a short walk and the band ready in plenty of time. There was a guest player on percussion who came all the way from Kent to help out.  He did an excellent job especially as he only rehearsed with the band on Friday evening and the contest morning.  It was also the first brass band contest that Lynda, on 2nd cornet, had attended.  All present and correct we waited with the usual mixture of excitement and nerves. Then the moment arrived. The band gave a confident performance of Philip Sparke's Kaleidoscope. There were many highlights from every section of the band and although it was not a faultless performance we left the stage feeling satisfied that we had done our best and knowing that it was now up to the judge and the performance of the other bands to decide our fate.  The results were announced at the end of the day when all the other sections had completed their performances.  They were finally announced at about 20:00 with many other presentations and speeches.  Best of all WE WON!  Some members of the band had heard other performances from our section and new that the competition was strong - it was an amazing feeling. This is also our first win with conductor Paul Slator, who was over the moon.  We received a nice shinny trophy and individual medals.

It was also a double celebration for Paul as he performed with Yeovil Town Band on principal euphonium helping them to win first prize in the Championship section.

15-Oct-2006 Band
The band are pleased to report that Matt, our Principal Cornet and Lynda have announced their engagement with the intention of getting married in the Summer of 2008.  Congratulations to you both from all of us.
12-Sep-2006 Exmouth Festival

What a day.  The usual high standard of brass band music from the South West was on display. All bands played inside the Pavilion for the contest and outside in the garden to entertain the crowds.  The weather was kind helping to attract a large audience.  We based our performance around a 'pick of the pops' theme, with all pieces featuring in the charts at some point.  Paul compared the concert well, having put a lot of time into researching each piece of music.  The band played;
Fanfare for the Common Man

  • Fanfare for a Common Man
  • At the Sign of the Swinging Cymbal
  • Ticket to Ride
  • Candle in the Wind
  • Desperado (Euphonium soloist John Woods)
  • Light as Air
  • Ruby Tuesday

New comers Chris & Helen Porter were thrown in at the deep end when they helped to cover the percussion part in the first item.  Neither had played percussion before but they weren't going to let that cause a problem!  Helen had to learn the art of stopping a Tam Tam from ringing too long, which is not a particularly elegant for a lady to do!  Both did a grand job for which we were very grateful.  We were pleased when we came off stage.  This was our first contest with Paul Slator conducting and also for new members Alex Slator (2nd Horn), Chris & Helen Porter (3rd Cornet) and Caron & Tom Lisett (Baritone).  We were keen to show how well we had all worked together to embrace this fresh start.  Paul was happy with our performance but sadly the adjudicator, John Berryman, didn't agree, placing us =7th out of 10.  

The Band thought that we had a good omen for the Contest as our theme was Top of the Pops, Hits Over The Years.  Just before we played, Sir Jimmy Saville was outside the theatre signing autographs and having pictures taken with Fans of ALL ages.  Unfortunately, Sir Jimmy didn't fix it for us to win, but it was nice to still see pulling in a crowd at 80!.

Though not the result we were looking for it was still a performance to be proud of.  John Berryman was reported as saying to the SWBBA Committee that although he wasn't a fan of our choice of music, he thought that Phoenix Band was the most musical band on the day, which was most encouraging to know.  We can build on positives as well as negatives.

24-Jul-2006 Player News !!

Kate
We were grateful for Kate's help at the areas but didn't expect to see her again so soon.  She contacted Dave Coles about joining and we jumped at the chance.  It is great to have a regular drummer - particularly one as good as Kate.

Matt Read
It's been nice to see a bit more of Matt lately.  He has also brought his girlfriend Lynda along to learn cornet - if you can't beat 'em, join 'em!

Cornet Players
We also have Helen and Chris playing back row cornet.  Both are learning so we'll try not to scare them away.  We think they are doing very well and hope that we will all help them as much as possible.  Kate, Chris and Helen all play in Taunton Concert Band with Graham Davies so thank you Graham for introducing us all.

Jill Brighouse
Jill's husband is still away in Iraq and is due to return mid July.  She will be back with us soon after.  Some of the girls went to visit her last week for a quiet evening of tea and cake! (I bet!!!)  She looked great and seems to be coping fine, though obviously she is missing the band terribly!

09-May-2006 New Conductor

We are fortunate to have Paul Slator conducting the band at present.  Paul helped out when Mike Knapton was ill and was well liked and respected by the band.  Paul was pleased when Chris approached him about taking the band.  He is currently Resident Conductor for Yeovil Band and has obvious commitments with them.  We hope that we can work around this, but only time will tell.  For now we are thrilled to be under his expert guidance and hope for a long future together.

24-Apr-2006 Mike Knapton Resigns

Last month the band accepted Mike Knapton's resignation as conductor of the band.  As you know Mike has fought hard to recover from his stroke and has done remarkably well.  However it was starting to affect rehearsals and was causing frustration throughout the band and Mike felt that he had lost the support of the band.  He left on good terms and we wish him well in the future. With Mike went his wife, Lesley, on percussion and daughter, Tracey, on horn.  All will be missed and their contribution and commitment to the band has been much appreciated.

08-Apr-2006 "First" Bridport Concert

This was the first time that the band had performed in Bridport.  The concert at the United Church,  was a joint event between the band and the church.  The following report was taken from the May Issue of Bridport United Church's Magazine.

SOUNDING BRASS

The visit of Phoenix Brass was billed as "first time in Bridport".  The way it was received by a large and appreciative audience in the church on 8th April would indicate it will not be the last.  There were some who feared the noise generated by a brass band indoors might be overpowering even in a large building like the church, but they need not have worried.  Some of the pieces did achieve a thrilling crescendo of sound.  Others were marked by a quiet moving sensitivity.  The programme covered a wide variety of material, ranging from well known musicals and an intriguing medley of hymns to pieces written for brass band which were new to most.  One of the highlights was a lively setting of "Shine, Jesus, Shine" which like several of the pieces had feet tapping through the church.

Altogether this was a highly enjoyable evening and out thanks go to Dr. David Baldwin, a keen member of the band, for his initiative in arranging this.  It was also a success financially in that it raised almost £450, the proceeds being divided between the quite considerable running costs of the band and the church building fund.

Revd. Nelson Bainbridge

18-Mar-2006 A "Top Less" Day

What a day!  This was the first time that Jill Brighouse had performed with the band in a national contest.  She packed her car the night before to make certain that she got away in plenty of time.  The next morning, her husband informed her that she could not take her car because it required an MoT and therefore he had transferred al her 'equipment' to the other car.  As she got in to the got she noted that her cornet and sandwiches were there and drove to Torquay.

Disaster, as she started to empty the car.  "Where is my black shirt?", she thought to herself, or words with a similar meaning.  But being a true professional (female), she had noted a branch of "Next" on the outskirts of the town.  Off she shot to purchase anything black that could substitute for a band shirt.  She was successful and the following weekend she was able to buy other items of clothes to compliment the original purchase.

The contest was not such a good result for the band.  The players had worked hard with Kevin Darby and believed that they could present a very commendable performance on the day.  (Generally, this piece had been criticised by notable commentators as being too hard for the section.)  After leaving the platform, the band were aware of some errors but expected to be in the top half and were therefore astounded at being thirteenth out fifteen,  I suppose that's banding.

14-Feb-2006 West of England Regional Brass Band Championships

The band are pleased to announce that Kevin Darby will be conducting them at the area contest.  The band are looking forward to starting rehearsals with him soon.  We hope that we can reward his efforts with a stunning performance.

01-Oct-2005 Happy Birthday Smarty Pants!

Last Saturday saw the latest Concert by your "Favourite" Band.  St Bartholomew's Church, Crewkerne was the venue and was the Band's Annual Concert for their "Friend of Phoenix" supporters.  This was also the Band's 10th Anniversary, so current and ex-players with their families were invited to attend a Birthday Bash at the White Hart before the Concert.  This was well attended and included the Mayor & Mayoress, who cut the cake to celebrate a wonderful 10 years of Banding for Crewkerne.  They wished Phoenix Brass all the best for the next 10 years.

The Concert followed on at 19.30 with Mike Knapton both conducting and comparing.  He did really well with his notes and was a big bonus to his recovery.  He is now conducting and comparing better than ever !!!!!!!.  Well done Mike, another big step!

The other big event at the Concert was the first showing of our new Uniform / Waistcoats.  The Old Waistcoats have lasted 10 years (just!!), so it was decided that perhaps for our birthday we would have a new uniform.  While other bands still have the "old type jackets ", full of gold braid and tassels etc., Phoenix originally went for waistcoats.  Since then, many others have followed in our footsteps.  Other bands always comment how smart and practical we look.  Well we have gone for waistcoats again, but yet again with a ground breaking idea.  We now wear gold / beige waistcoats with black shirts and no ties!.  Yes, the restriction of ties are no longer.  We will have to find another excuse now as to when we make a mistake.

The Concert was well attended by Ex-Players, Supporters and Friends of Phoenix, who are always welcome.  Many came from great distances to be there.  On display were the Champion Band of the South West Banners which the Band won on two consecutive years, and memorabilia from the last 10 years.  Many changes of hairstyles were on show in the photographs etc, and the women had a few changes as well!  Another first at this Concert was the permanent move of Tracy Gill (Mike & Lesley's Daughter), a horn formerly with the City of Bristol Band.  Tracy has only recently given birth to a beautiful daughter, but couldn't wait to get back to banding.  Not sure if it was a musical decision or the thought of all those Nappies?. Here's to the next 10 years. Thank you Phoenix Brass ( Crewkerne ).

03-Sep-2005 Exmouth Entertainment Contest - Report

The sun shone all day, but on this occasion, the sun didn't shine on your favourite Band!  We came away with 9th place out of 13.  This doesn't look very good, but the standard was " Top Drawer " according to the day's adjudicator Philip Harper.  Phoenix was drawn to play 2nd at 11.00am, which is far too early for some!   There was drama even before going on stage as our announcer Sam (Mike Knapton's daughter), was unable to attend as she was taken into hospital the night before.  Mike didn't want to worry the Band, so he decided to do the announcing himself.  To take the pressure off Mike, as he had enough to do, we hurriedly tried to find a victim, sorry volunteer, to announce the music.  As you can imagine, there were many putting there name forward - Oh Yeah!  As luck would have it, Mike's other daughter, Tracy, turned up to listen to us play and agreed(?) to take on this task.  She did fantastically well, especially with only 10 minutes practice and words like Jan Mange Forde, (which isn't said as spelt!)  The Band didn't play to their full potential, but after all the things that have happened to Mike and the changes we have had over the last few months, being there was a good result.  While we were disappointed with our performance, we were, as everybody else was, in awe of the performance of Mount Charles Youth.  They are the National Community Youth Champions of Great Britain 2005 and lived up to their status.  It was truly wonderful to watch them entertain the huge crowds, both inside and outside at Exmouth.  There was over 1000 people watching.  Philip Harper gave then 100% for entertainment and quite right he was.

03-Sep-2005 Exmouth Entertainment Contest

The Band now look forward to playing with our new players and with Mike at the helm at Exmouth 03-Sep-2005 where we are playing at an Entertainment Contest. This involves 14 Bands playing 25 minutes worth of Music, to " Entertain " the public. We will be up against some of the best Bands in the South West. So keep posted to the web site to see how we get on - please.

21-Aug-2005 A Warm Welcome

The Burnham On Sea Concert also saw the first for three new players who have recently joined the Band.  Jan Bissell has returned after a year out due to studying at University and luckily has taken on a Teaching job at Chard.  Jill Brighouse and her family have moved into the area from Farnworth.  Graham Davies has decided to return to his Brass Band roots and was looking for a good Band to join.  He couldn't find one, so he joined us ( only joking ).  All three new players have joined the Front Row Cornet section.  In fact it was a baptism of fire for Graham, as he also played the first Solo of the night, playing Annie's Song by John Denver.  Well played Graham. And a very warm welcome to all three of you.

21-Aug-2005 Big Night for Mike - - - and - - - Donation to Alzheimers Society

On Sunday, we had a Concert at the Princess Theatre, Burnham On Sea.  These are a series of Concerts throughout the Summer Season organized by the local Council.  Phoenix Brass (Crewkerne) were asked to perform their stuff and duly accepted this offer. Although the sun was out, a big crowd witnessed Mike Knapton's (Conductor) first Concert back after his recent stroke.  Mike has been taking rehearsals for the first hour over the last few months, with Paul Slator ( from Yeovil Band ) taking the rest of the rehearsal.  But this Concert was the first time, for some time that Mike had taken the whole evenings worth of playing.  Although very tired afterwards, he was also on a high at the same time after achieving yet another milestone in his recovery.  He was fantastic, and the Band were really pleased for him.  He was very nervous but pushed himself as he has done from day one.  I think the Phoenix Brass ( Crewkerne ) must be the only band in the world ( well from Crewkerne anyway ) that has a Conductor, who, when taken on to Conduct the Band, conducted right-handed and has now changed to left-handed.  Some would say for the better !! but I didn't get their names??  Well done Mike from ALL of the Band.

During the evening, a cheque for £415 was presented to John Vosper Treasurer of the mid Somerset branch Alzheimer's Society by John Woods, Solo Euphonium with Phoenix.  This was the proceeds of a joint Concert with Sherborne Town Band earlier in the year in memory of John's late father who was a well known cornet player and founder of Sherborne Town Band.  The monies will be used for research and respite care in Somerset.  (Photographs available)

27-May-2005 Matt the Trumpet - Good and Bad

Matt has been very active on the Professional circuit recently playing Trumpet with Riverbrew, who are an 8 Piece Energetic Party / Function Band.  But due to his success of Riverbrew, who are now playing all over the Country in Clubs, Concert Halls and Theatres, Matt has had to take a back seat from being the Bands Principal Cornet.  Whilst this is good news for Matt, it has left a vacancy for a Principal Cornet within Phoenix Brass ( Crewkerne ).  Matt will still help the Band out when he can, as his talent is always appreciated by the Band and Audience alike.  The band attended one of Matt's " Gigs " and a good time was had by all. www.theriverbrew.co.uk

14-May-2005 Ensemble Promotes Crewkerne

The Bands Brass Ensemble played in Crewkerne for the Shoppers Promotion Draw, where the winner would win £1,000 just for shopping in the town.  The weather was damp but there was a buzz around the town that morning, and the Brass Ensemble was very well received.

The big buzz for the Ensemble was that they were conducted by Mike Knapton.  This was Mike's first Band engagement since having a stroke at the end of January. This was a big step for Mike, as since the day after his stroke, he has learnt to conduct left-handed.  Some might say that his conducting has improved!!  But all joking apart, that is one hell of a feat for anybody.  The only problem being is that while conducting left-handed, he turns the pages left-handed and then wants to take the music for the 2nd repeated time also left-handed.  When all 3 of those tasks coincide, it has to been seen to be believed.  Mike has now perfected, nodding to keep the beat going, using his left hand to turn the music over and sticks his tongue out for 2nd time only.  Only Mike could get away with it!!  This just shows the determination of the man.  Well done Mike.  In fact at Tuesday's practice on 24-May-2005, he was also playing the Cornet for half the practice.  What else can I say?

26-Apr-2005 Mike's Back at the Helm

To loud applause from the players, Mike Knapton conducted his first rehearsal after his illness.  He is still recuperating and at the moment is conducting left-handed.  Although he has made excellent progress, he found it necessary to hand over the baton to Paul Slator at "half time".  Nice to see you back Mike and continue the good progress!

24-Apr-2005 Maurice Wood Memorial Concert

This  concert, organised by his family, was a celebration of Maurice's life.  It was held in the where  Digby Hall, Sherborne where many past members of Sherborne Town Band and banding "friends" were able to attend..  Music was provide by Phoenix Brass and Sherborne Town Band and compèred by Cyril White, a close friend and co-founder of Sherborne Town Band.

"Maurice died suddenly on 15th August 2004 having endured Alzheimer's for 3 years. He learnt cornet in the Sherborne Boys Brigade before seeing active service in World War 2 in the Mediterranean serving with the Royal West Kent's Regiment. At that time he also played trumpet in an army dance band gaining valuable musical experience and lifelong friendships. Maurice was a founder member of Sherborne Town Band in 1960/61 and went on to be Principal Cornet for a number of years, also holding position of chairman and secretary for many years. Maurice was Solo Cornet when the band won the 1965 Third Section National Finals in London. Throughout his life he had a very keen interest in brass and taught many youngsters in Dorset and Hertfordshire; where he retired having married Marion in 1991. Maurice's son John is a past member of Sherborne Town Band and a member of Phoenix Brass (Crewkerne)."

The first half from Phoenix Brass was March: Praise, Jaspers Dance from Pineapple Poll, Lucille, featuring Matthew Read on cornet, Waltzing Matilda, Lightwalk and I’ll Walk With God (listen here!).  The second half from Sherborne Town Band included March: Blaze Away, West Country Fantasy, Cornet Carillon, Maurice Woods memorial Suite (1. At the Castle Gates from Kenilworth, 2.All Hands at Work from Shipbuilders, 3. Prière a Notre-Dame from Suite Gothique, 4. March from A Moorside Suite).  The finale from the now combined bands was March: Contestor and Music

I am sure that the family will have been very satisfied by the concert as were all the banding "friends".

09-Apr-2005 Fred Newton Memorial Concert

This concert was organized by the band's Bb Bass player - Roger - to celebrate his father's love of brass bands.  Roger started playing in Winsham Band and then joined Chard Concert Brass where he remained until joining Phoenix Brass (Crewkerne), shortly after the band's formation in 1995.  Fred Newton was always behind him and became a strong supporter of both Winsham and Chard Band and was one of the first 'Friends of Phoenix'.  Though he never played an instrument he had a good ear for music and often correctly placed the top bands at contests, even if that didn't include the band he was supporting!  He would always give an honest opinion and was very encouraging.

Under the baton of Gary Greenstock the band commenced with the march 'Praise' by Wilfred Heaton which saw the evening off to a good start.  Our principal cornet Matthew Read then performed 'Lucille'.  This was Matt's first outing with this piece but he showed no nerves and performed with his usual finesse and display of technical ability.  The packed hall thoroughly enjoyed Matt's talent.

'Pastime with Good Company', 'Let's Face the Music and Dance', 'Calling Cornwall' and the beautiful 'Irish Blessing' all followed with 'Ardross Castle' from the 'Hymn of the Highlands Suite' concluding the first half.  This challenging piece, which started with muted solo horn and solo baritone, also tested the percussion section; it gave the band good cause for a rest and refreshments.

Eventually 'Fanfare and Flourishes' kicked off the second half.  This was followed by 'Share My Yoke' performed by Julie Bulgin, who's sweet flugel tone fitted well with this beautiful melody.  One of the best pieces of the evening was 'Country Scene'.  This clever composition paints a country scene of sunshine and bird song.  Fred had requested this piece at concerts in the past as it was one of his favourites.

'Oklahoma', 'Light Walk' and 'Cwm Rhondda' all played their part in this memorable evening.  The final item was 'Gaelforce', again featuring the percussion section, along with difficult parts for the euphonium and cornet sections.

The evening was very enjoyable and I'm sure that Fred would have enjoyed it too.

 

09-Apr-2005 Mike Knapton Continues to Make Significant Progress

Mike Knapton left Hospital last Tuesday.  Mike also " walked in " on our recent Concert at Winsham Chard. (see above)  It was nice to see him there (with his Son Ian, who has only recently returned from a Tour of Singapore & New Zealand with Yorkshire Co-Op ). Mike was as pleased to be there as the Band was to see him there.  His wheelchair was left in the car; he made it under his own steam!  Well done Mike.

 

02-Apr-2005 Phoenix Install New Organ at Topsham

Not quite!  But a group of players from the band joined the Budleigh Salterton Male Voice Choir in a concert to raise money for the installation of the new organ at St. Margaret's Church.  The church was full and with an audience of over 200 and £2,100 was raised in the evening.  The programme from Phoenix included:

  • Trumpet Tune & Air - Henry Purcell arr Elgar Howarth
    To a Wild Rose - MacDowell arr Clair Johnson
    Sourwood Mountain - Acton Ostling
    Last Spring - Edvard Grieg arr Roger Harvey
    Waltz No.1 - Shostakovitch arr Dennis Wilby
    March from Symphony No.2 - Tchaikovsky arr D Wilby

  • Frere Jaques - Trad arr John Iveson
    Summer Knows - Michel Legrand arr John Golland
    Alpine Merry-Go-Round - Rice arr Edrich Siebert
    Ein Schnaps - Dave Baker arr Dennis Wilby
    Barbie - Peter Laine arr Dennis Wilby

The players, conducted by Gary Greenstock were; Matt Read, Mike Tolman, Dave Coles, Julie Bulgin, Bev Dean, Elaine Brinson, John Woods, Dave Bulgin & Alan Read.  To quote, "… a good night was had by all…"

14-Mar-2005 South West of England Regional Championships, Torquay

Our section was won by St Keverne with Woodfalls in second place; we came 11th.  The band was disappointed with the result.  We thought out performance on stage did not reflect the hard work and achievements in rehearsal during the days leading up to the Contest.  Perhaps nerves took over, only producing a safe performance  rather than our usual standard.  However, the whole day was boosted by the presence of Mike Knapton (our Musical Director ) who was given "leave" from hospital to attend the 'regionals', specifically to hear us play.  Although the result was lower than we expected, the "real" result was Mike being able to attend after only 6 weeks from the start of his illness.  Keep on improving Mike!

01-Mar-2005 Musical Director is taken ill

At the end of January, Mike Knapton had a stroke whilst at work.  He is still in hospital recovering although it is anticipated that he will be released from hospital soon to continue his recovery at home.  The members of the band wish him well and hope that he will soon return to his position with the 'stick'.

The band have been fortunate the have had the services of Gwynne Price to front the show at recent concerts in Seaton and Bridgwater.  For the area contest at Torquay on 12 March, Gary Greenstock, the bands former musical director has agreed to take the band.