News from the World of Brass Bands

Andover Concert at Stocksbridge Parish Church

Musical Director Steve Large told The Brass Band Portal, "Andover Town Band aims to be part of the community – our players live locally and there are brothers and sisters, mothers and fathers involved. We offer lessons for new players young and old - and musical development for more experienced brass musicians. One year after reforming, we have plenty to celebrate.

"We also enjoy sharing our music with local audiences, helping them to raise money for their good causes. It will be a treat to play in St Peter's Church and to share our latest favourites with a new audience."

Stockbridge has a growing national reputation as a foodies' paradise, with a range of restaurants, and specialist food shops to rival anywhere in the country.  Fittingly the concert took the form of a "tasting menu".

Graham Capper

23/10/11

U.S. Open Championships 2011 Adjudication Panel Announced

The adjudicators US Open Brass Band Championships to be held on Saturday, November 5, 2011 at the Norris Cultural Arts Center in St. Charles, Illinois, have been announced.

Dr. Dale Lonis, who has adjudicated for several past Opens, has been appointed "chief judge". Dr. Lonis currently serves as the Chief Operating Officer of the Elgin Symphony, having held a similar post with the Winnipeg Symphony in Manitoba.

Dr. Jay Kennedy, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Vice Provost at Berklee College of Music in Boston, has also joined the panel. An accomplished percussionist, Kennedy is as a Grammy finalist and is an accomplished percussionist.

Clark Niermeyer

17/10/11

U.S. Open Championships 2011 Line-up Announced

The 9^th Annual U.S. Open Brass Band Championships will be hosted by the Prairie Brass Band. This year's competitors, consisting of 6 bands from 6 states, will take the stage at the Norris Cultural Arts Center in St. Charles, Illinois on Saturday, November 5, 2011. Doors will open at 9:00 AM, the first band begins at 9:30 AM and the contest will run until 4:15 PM.

The following bands have accepted this year's invitation to compete in this, the only entertainment contest of its kind in the United States:

• Brass Band of Central Florida
• Dublin
• Eastern Iowa Brass Band
• Fountain
• Motor
• Prairie Brass Band

The bands will be competing for trophies and cash prizes including: Grand Champion; 2^nd. Place; Best Performance of a March; Most Entertaining Band; Best New Composition or Arrangement for Brass Band; and Most Outstanding Percussion Section. The award for the Best Soloist of the Day and Best Cornet Player of the day will once again be awarded by Buffet Crampon.

Further information and tickets may be secured by checking out the website.

Clark Niermeyer

11/9/11