Brackley & District Band Blog

Busy Band Christmas starts well

Brackley & District Band — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 16:35:37 +0000

For the whole of Sunday’s opening hours at Sainsbury’s in Banbury, the band entertained the shoppers and raised much needed funds to help keep the band going through the winter.

The band and its helpers played shifts throughout the day, and Mr. Owens (Chairman Rhys to us) gave some of his school pupils a taste of performing in public when they joined us for a massive performance of Jingle Bells. The Mayor popped by to say hello, many shoppers commented on how nice it was to hear a proper band, and one even admitted to singing along to the carols as she went up and down the isles.

We then decamped, via the pub, to Brackley to play with the Junior band at this year’s community Carol Singing in the market square. As usual it was packed out and the players, John Bennett, the weather and Santa’s performances were all excellent.

Winter Edition of BRASS Rubbings

Band Supporters Club — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 09:42:31 +0000

The Winter 2011 Edition of BRASS Rubbings Newsletter is available.

“Brass Rubbings” Club Newsletter – Autumn 2011

Band Supporters Club — Mon, 19 Sep 2011 19:23:44 +0000

The Autumn Edition of our newly relaunched Club Newsletter “Brass Rubbings” is available to download, giving a news roundup of the Club and Bands’ recent activities. If you have any contributions for the Christmas edition then please send them into the Band Club for the attention of the Editor, Des Stimpson.

Ravensthorpe Fete

Brackley & District Band — Sun, 07 Aug 2011 15:56:39 +0000

Sharing their musical duties with a steel band the senior band were able to instil a little humour into proceedings with performances of Singing in the Rain and A Grand Day Out as the heavens opened at regular intervals during the afternoon. Thanks go to Nigel Hall for conducting the band and to Angus Oliver, Steve Clapton and Julie Jackman for helping us out at our last engagement before a well earned summer break.

Small Group feature at Air Ambulance Music Festival

Brackley & District Band — Sat, 23 Jul 2011 15:56:09 +0000

A small group from the senior band played in the open air for the first time when they started the Air Ambulance Music Festival at Brackley Town Football Club on Saturday. Bolstered by the presence of Angus Oliver on Eb Bass, Dan Blake on cornet and Lee Smith on drums the group were pleased to hear that their arrangements work equally well outside and to report that their 40 minute session was well received.

Brackley Band kicks off the 2011 Music Festival

Brackley & District Band — Fri, 24 Jun 2011 15:55:44 +0000

For the first time in the long history of the Brackley Music Festival, the Brackley bands were honoured to headline with the first concert of the 2011 season. The senior band were delighted to welcome back David Williams as guest conductor for the night, his first time in front of the band since our purple patch in the 80s. A return to the traditional Magdalen Chapel venue saw a typically well attended event with fine performances from both the senior and junior bands.

Wet weather clothes required for marching in Padbury

Brackley & District Band — Mon, 30 May 2011 15:55:13 +0000

An early start at Padbury for the band’s second showing at the annual Padbury Sick Benefit Society march supporting the Society’s collection for local people in need. A wet morning didn’t hamper the band’s spirits or that of our hosts as we entertained the villagers between regular stops for refreshments and the drying out of wet uniforms. A small ensemble stayed behind after the marching to provide musical background for the Society during their roast beef lunch. Again, a very enjoyable and worthwhile morning enjoyed by all the band. Special thanks to our hosts for their appreciation and hospitality.

New committee elected to take the band forward

Brackley & District Band — Fri, 20 May 2011 15:54:49 +0000

The 2011 AGM saw the election of a new committee for the band. Soprano player Rhys Owens takes over as Chariman, with Eric Young standing down after a five year term. Newly married Liz Slack is the new band Secretary and recent recruit Matt Cotton will be Treasurer, taking over from Jane and Tim respectfully, both of whom also stood down this year after long periods in the roles. The band wish the new committee well and will be supporting them fully in the year ahead.

Weston and Weedon Lois Country Fayre

Brackley & District Band — Mon, 02 May 2011 15:54:22 +0000

Having endured winter conditions for this event on the previous two years, the band were pleased to round off a sunny spring holiday weekend by providing the music for Weston and Weedon Lois Country Fayre. We are very pleased to … Continue reading →

Congratulations to Liz and Billy on their special day

Brackley & District Band — Sat, 26 Mar 2011 15:53:50 +0000

The Holt Hotel near Oxford provided a perfect setting for the marriage of 2nd cornet Liz to new husband Billy. Guests were treated throughout the afternoon to a light programme of music provided by the band playing in the hotel … Continue reading →