We may not have taken home the top prize at this year’s National Finals, but the band’s hard work and dedication resonated in every note of Daniel Hall’s Smoke Sketches. While the result didn’t reflect it, both 4barsrest.com and British Bandsman magazine had tipped us for a top 6 finish, and our performance left a lasting impression on fellow musicians and listeners in the audience.
Conductor Matthew Ruel’s words before stepping onto the stage captured the essence of our performance: “We’re here to make music and entertain the audience just as much as we’re here to win.”
As highlighted by Brassing Around, the band’s effort was evident, with positive feedback throughout the day, particularly praising our professionalism, sound quality, and attention to detail. While we may not have won, Matthew and the entire band are incredibly proud of what we achieved, delivering everything we worked on in rehearsals—and more.
For those who wish to hear our performance, it’s available to stream on wobplay: https://wobplay.com/view?asset_id=37Nj2dovD5.
Though a different contest draw may have led to a different result, this experience has been a valuable learning opportunity and a testament to how far we’ve come. Reaching the National Finals itself is a significant accomplishment—one we will continue to build upon.
A huge thank you to everyone who has supported us on this incredible journey!
Members of our band that performed at the 2024 National Brass Band Championships of Great Britain – the band’s first time qualifying in 65 years!
Conductor
Matthew Ruel
Soprano Cornet
Kevin Edwards
Front Row Cornets
Jack Porter, Charlotte Hemsley, Jim Brennan, Aaron Thomas
Back Row Cornets
Connie Barbary, Oliver Williamson, Tanya Winter, Rebecca Devaney, Ella Smith
Flugelhorn
Nigel Winter
Tenor Horns
Thomas Thorne, Jacqueline Ruel, Philip Edwards
Baritone & Euphoniums
Freddie Shaw, Michael Fowkes, Darren Killick, Graham Netherton
Trombones
Mark Hawkins, Megan Saxon, Ian Head
EEb Bass & BBb Basses
Emil Jonasson, Clifton Roestoff, David Holmes, David Yates
Percussion
Andy Light, Tim Lain
Backroom Team Member
Philip Davey
