LATEST NEWS FROM THE BAND

After being content with second or third prizes for a few years, the musicians of The Cricklade Band have once again hit the winning heights.

The 30-strong band took part in Phoenix Brass Band Festival at Hungerford on 22 April. Bands from Avon, Wiltshire, Dorset, Berkshire and Gloucestershire were in contention. The competition consisted of playing a 20-minute entertaining mini concert. The bands were judged on their technical ability, artistic interpretation, choice of programme and entertainment value.

The adjudicator was Michael Howley, principal euphonium player with the world-famous Brighouse and Rastrick Band. The Cricklade Band impressed him sufficiently for him to award us First Prize Overall. In addition, Mark Blackwell, the band’s principal cornet, was awarded the prize as best soloist of the day. Not to be outdone, the band’s tuba section also received the best bass section trophy.

The band consider themselves to be proud ambassadors for the town of Cricklade, not only carrying our location to all of our playing engagements but also to our fellow bands from around the country and also through our newly launched website:   thecrickladeband.co.uk

Now all the hard work in preparing an award-winning performance has been rewarded with an impressive collection of salver, shield and large cup, the programme for next year’s competition is already being worked on.