[Date Prev][Date Next][Thread Prev][Thread Next][Date Index][Thread Index] Re: Pershore Midsummer Brass
In a message dated 03/07/00 21:27:37 GMT Daylight Time,
shelleyhill@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx writes:
<< Pershore Midsummer Brass was, as usual, a terrific day out, with some
fantastic performances from all of the bands that played.>>
Couldn't agree more. Yet another fine day. I'd better be careful what I say
this year because my reference last year to it being one of brass band's
'best kept secrets' was quoted by Gordon Hartley Bennett, the indomitable
organiser, in the programme. Thoroughly enjoyable performances from
Bretforton, Lydney, Staffs, Rolls Royce, Sovereign and Flowers.
Particularly enjoyed Phillip Harper conducting Flowers playing his own
'Horizons' in the Abbey. Also enjoyed Staffs performance of Sparke's Tallis
Variations in the Abbey. I got the impression that my enjoyment of this test
piece performance was not shared by all of the audience (the chap in front of
me kept getting up and going for a walk during it!)
<<On a sour note, however, I was angered, upset, and not to mention
disgusted,
by the compere's announcement that Flowers were 'one of the star
attractions'. >>
Come on, Shelley. It is a fact that Flowers are currently the highest ranked
of the bands who play at Pershore. It was a pleasure to hear them but the
size of the audience all day showed that people enjoyed listening to bands of
all standards. Midsummer Brass has always worked on this basis and should be
applauded for doing so. Surely it's a little harsh to criticize them for
singling Flowers out for praise.
For me, the solos were a bit disappointing this year. 2 (very good) flugel
players (Flowers and Sovereign) made not wholly convincing attempts at 'You
needed me' and Kevin Lee of Rolls Royce fought a losing battle against the
band in Blue John.
I also grew a little tired of conductors indulging in 'in jokes' which may be
hilarious to the players but come over to this listener as patronising the
audience.
These are minor quibbles. Pershore Midsummer Brass remains one of the
treasures of the brass band calendar.
Big Chap
Bedrock Brass
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