On Sunday 31st October the East Anglian Brass Band Association held its Annual Brass Training Day at Hellesdon High School, Norwich. Delegates from age 10 upwards had enrolled for the course. This year the tutors were from the Cory Band. The change in the format of the course which started in 2018 with an Andante Band for less experienced players and beginners and an Allegro Band for more experienced players was continued. Altogether there were 65 delegates enrolled to participate in the two bands.
The Allegro Band was led by Glyn Williams who was also baritone and euphonium tutor. The sectional tutors for the Allegro Band were Tom Hutchinson (front row cornets), Hannah Plumridge (soprano and back row cornets), Helen Williams (flugels), Ailsa Russell (tenor horns), Chris Thomas (trombones) and Simon Howell (basses). Players in the Allegro Band studied the march The Triple Crown (Philip Harper), Elephant Patrol (Philip Harper), I’ve Gotta Be Me (Walter Marks arr. Philip Harper) and Sanctuary (Philip Sparke).
The delegates were delighted to accompany Chris Thomas in Trust in Me (Sherman & Sherman arr. Philip Harper).
The Triple Crown was commissioned by EABBA to celebrate its 90th Anniversary and in memory of Brian and Dianne Hastings.
The Andante Band was led by Chris Thomas and studied music suitable for Halloween, Grandmother Tells a Ghost Story (Theodor Kullak arr. Matt Kingston) and Danse Macabre (Camille Saint-Saens arr. Matt Kingston).
Association Secretary, Christine Wade reported that the day had been thoroughly enjoyed by all the delegates. I received many comments about the day such as ‘It was a really great day’, ‘It was super’, ‘It was a brilliant day’.
The Association wishes to thank Glyn, Tom, Hannah, Helen, Ailsa, Chris and Simon for an excellent day.
The Association is grateful for the financial support of Norwich Freemen’s Charity and Newmoon Insurance Services Limited.
The 2022 Brass Training Day takes place on Sunday 30th October when the tutors will be from the Leyland Band.