Rousing Night With Superb Brass Band

On Monday the 12th July the band braved the heat and humidity to give its first performance in the Harrogate Theatre for several years. The audience were treated to an excellent performance which they greatly enjoyed. The following text is quoted from the review of the evening by Jane Soar writing for the Harrogate Adviser
“The evening started in fine style with Valero by James Swearing arranged by Sandy Smith, a jazzy, bright and breezy number. Derek Broadband who was conducting in place of the band's resident conductor Morgan Griffiths then introduced himself and the band. Next we had Shostakovich's Festive Overture a rousing, exultant piece, arranged by Peter Kitson.

The first solo of the evening was performed by principal cornettist Jamie Smith, who made his cornet sing with The Nightingale by Harold Moss. This was followed by Hora Staccato a piece made famous by the late, great Harry James, then the psalm setting of I Know Thou Art Mine by Leonard Ballantine its slow solemnity contrasting well with the previous number. Next the popular opening number from Pineapple Poll by Arthur Sullivan was fast, lively and top tapping.

The second solo of the evening featured the band's principal tenor horn, Helen Varley with a lyrical rendition of the lovely romantic ballad Demelza. A quiet drum solo introduced Berne Patrol by E. Howarth, the marching theme being picked up by each section of the band, reaching a crescendo, then fading into the distance as the patrol left town.

The first half of the evening ended with a new work by the composer in residence, Richard Rock, Heroes of Erin.

The second half opened with Rhythm and Blues by P. Sparke, then an arrangement by G. Langford of Fifth of August a traditional piece based on Brigg Fair. The stirring, ever popular theme from 633 Squadron led into the quiet, cooling Largo from Winter by Vivaldi. providing relief from the rather humid evening temperature.

The golden oldie Annie Laurie gave principal euphonium player Matthew Allsop an opportunity to show off his considerable skills.

This most enjoyable evening ended with two rousing numbers Pastime with Good Company and the March from The Pines of Rome invoking dramatic historical eras.”