National Brass Band Championships of Great Britain
Wetherby Band Stand
A Musical Journey by the Riverside
Setting the Scene
On a not-so-sunny afternoon by the River Wharf in Wetherby, West Yorkshire, families, friends, and music enthusiasts gathered at the picturesque Wetherby Riverside Bandstand. The air buzzed with anticipation as the band prepared to weave their magic.The Band and Their Repertoire
The South Yorkshire Police Band graced the bandstand, their brass instruments gleaming during glimpses of sunlight. Their free program featured a delightful mix of brass band favourites, five soloists and a cornet trio that had been carefully curated to captivate the audience. Here’s a glimpse of their musical journey:Nesum Dorna
Buglers Holiday
Finale from Violin Concerto
Berne Patrol
Clog Dance
Spanish Eyes
Three Lions
Carnival for Bass
One Voice
Valdres March
Someone to watch over me
Rusalka's song to the moon
Bohemian Rhaposdy
Taps in Tempo
Dear Lord and Father
Bladen Races
McArthur Park
Happy birthday Alan
What’s Next?
The South Yorkshire Police Band continues its musical journey. Next stop: the National Brass Band Championships in Cheltenham. We eagerly await their next performance, knowing they’ll make every note count.So, if you find yourself near the River Wharf on a Sunday afternoon, follow the music—it might just lead you to the magic of the Wetherby Bandstand. 🎶🌟
Concert in Ulley Country Park
Cutlers Feast Fanfares
A Resounding Success: The South Yorkshire Police Band at the 387th Cutlers’ Feast
It’s our absolute pleasure to recount the spectacular performance of the South Yorkshire Police Band Fanfare Team at the historic 387th Cutlers’ Feast. The evening was a symphony of tradition, excellence, and community spirit, encapsulated by the heraldic fanfares that resonated through the grandeur of Cutlers’ Hall.
The Fanfare Team’s Triumph
The South Yorkshire Police Band, a beacon of musical talent and dedication, showcased their prowess with the heraldic Smith Watkins trumpets, an instrument synonymous with regal occasions and significant events. The fanfare team’s performance was a masterful display of coordination and skill, as they welcomed VIPs with the majestic sounds of “Kingston” by Malcolm Arnold and “Dignified” by Arthur Bliss. These pieces, rich in heritage and complexity, were not merely music to the ears but a tribute to the legacy of the composers and the ceremonial significance of the event.
The Company of Cutlers: A Legacy Upheld
The Company of Cutlers in Hallamshire, established by a Parliamentary Act of Incorporation in 1624, has been the voice of manufacturing in Sheffield & South Yorkshire for nearly four centuries2. This illustrious body has tirelessly worked to maintain the standards and quality of Sheffield-manufactured cutlery and steel products, promoting the name of Sheffield as a hallmark of excellence.
Cutlers’ Hall: A Testament to Time
Cutlers’ Hall, the magnificent venue for the feast, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Company of Cutlers. The current hall, opened in 1832, is the third on this historic site and has been a Grade II* listed building since 1973. Its architecture, a blend of tradition and innovation, provided the perfect backdrop for an event that celebrated the past while looking firmly towards the future.
In Conclusion
The 387th Cutlers’ Feast was not just an event; it was a celebration of manufacturing history, craftsmanship, and community. The South Yorkshire Police Band Fanfare Team’s performance was the jewel in the crown of an evening that will be remembered for years to come.
Visit our website at www.sypmusic.info to relive the magic of the evening and to learn more about the band’s upcoming performances and initiatives.
Hashtags for SEO
#SouthYorkshirePoliceBand #CutlersFeast #HeraldicFanfares #SmithWatkinsTrumpets #MalcolmArnold #ArthurBliss #SheffieldHeritage #MusicAndArts #CommunitySpirit #TraditionMeetsExcellence
The South Yorkshire Police Band and the Company of Cutlers in Hallamshire are proud to have been part of an event that not only celebrated the rich history of our region but also showcased the talent and dedication of our local musicians. We look forward to many more years of partnership and performance. Thank you for your continued support.
2024 Yorkshire Brass Band Championships
Winners
What a glorious day for the South Yorkshire Police Band! They have emerged victorious in the Yorkshire Area 2nd Section Brass Band Finals, putting on an awe-inspiring performance of Philip Sparke's "Triptych". It was more than just a performance; it was a musical journey that struck a chord with the audience and left a lasting impression.The judges were left in no doubt as to the band's mastery of Sparke's challenging piece, noting their "unified sound and dynamic flair." The band tackled the piece's complexities with finesse and an unwavering passion for music, leaving the judges and the audience spellbound.
"Triptych" is a three-part musical journey, and here's a breakdown of each:
1. **Pageant**: A medieval festival full of life and colour. The opening fanfare built up to a grand, layered sound that set the stage for what was to come.
2. **Fantasy on One Note**: A reflective, almost spiritual experience where a single note, a concert 'F', stays constant while harmonies shift around it. The band's performance made the note heard loud and clear amidst the beautiful changes.
3. **Festival**: A musical celebration where everyone was invited. The band's infectious energy and rhythm had us bopping along.
The band's soprano cornet soloist won the 'Best Soloist' title.
Let's not forget the star of the show – the band's soprano cornet soloist, who snagged the 'Best Soloist' title. Their solos were sheer poetry, and they played with such emotion that you couldn't help but be moved.With this win, the band will compete in the National Championships in Cheltenham. We can't wait to see what they do next. Here's to making every note count!
Adjudicators Remarks
Yorkshire Regional Brass Band Committee
NATIONAL BRASS BAND CHAMPIONSHIPS OF GREAT BRITAIN
Yorkshire Regional Championships
2nd Section (ORDER OF PLAY)
ADJUDICATOR’S REMARKS
A confident start with crisp articulated playing. The detail is noted with parts linking across the band well.
Not always secure on bar line, and some rushing within the beats causing issues. Generally secure in balances, allowing lead lines to be heard.
II (two)
Transition into II is well managed with secure intonation.
Soloists are confident and play with shape.
Playing is controlled and you take the dynamic risks. - Timps are well managed into [P].
[P]- is not overblown but played with a full-rounded sound. Slight tuning issues [S] and slight ensemble to close although this is balanced.
III (three)
Clean articulation is noted and music has drive;
Inner parts are heard with good sop contribution
[X] full sounds & the drive maintained. Some pitch errors prior to [Y]. Detail is evident & the music builds to a strong close.
Overall - A very enjoyable performance with good basics in place and some excellent individual contributions well directed by MD.
Thank you
PLACING 1
Signature MJW Date 2/3/24
Adjudicators Remarks (SBinns)
A very good opening filled with detail in articulations + dynamics
[C] Good balance +ensemble
[F) great horns and well-balanced accomp.
H- lots of detail heard + great dynamic contrast after[J]
[K] - Accel is well paced + good style into Mov2
Movement Two
Intonation is good to start mov2 with some lovely sounds from cnt + Euph - Thank you.
Super attention to dynamics, well controlled + lovely warm band sound. This is great.
[N] Good tuning in trom/bari - Yes
Into [P] works very well, leading to a luscious and broad sound.
[R] - Perc is just right and into [S] tempo is good.
Again, intonation is great throughout with the minor ensemble blip in cnts, but this was super playing.
Mov 3 Festival
Starts with great pulse and control
Ensemble is tight - This is good
[V] - All good
W - odd little blemish, but a beautiful sop
[Y] - Good dynamic control + all parts are heard.
[AA] - Again - Yes!
[Bb] - style is good + consistent in approach, leading to a triumphant end.
Overall a performance which has so much to admire + enjoy, including super dynamics, styles and soloists
Thanks to band + M.D !
SBinns
2nd March 2024
Light Up a Life Services
Light Up a Life Service rasies £30,000
https://www.barnsleyhospice.org/2023/01/27/30000-raised-from-hospice-light-up-a-life-appeal/
Summer Reception by High Sheriff
South Yorkshire High Sheriff's Summer Reception
The band's ten-piece ensemble performed at the South Yorkshire High Sheriff's Summer Reception last Saturday at Firth Hall, Sheffield University.
The event was hosted by Professor Jaydip Ray, Vice-Chancellor of the University. It was attended by VIP guests and civic dignitaries from across the county.
The reception was a great success, with guests enjoying a delicious buffet and live music from the South Yorkshire Police Brass Band Ensemble.
The band performed various pieces, including classical favourites and popular tunes, and their performance was met with great applause.
The reception was also an opportunity for guests to network and learn more about the work of the High Sheriff's Office. The High Sheriff, Professor Jaydip Ray, spoke about the office's importance and the work he is doing to support the community.
The South Yorkshire High Sheriff's Summer Reception was a fantastic event that brought together people from all walks of life to celebrate the county and its community. We would like to thank everyone who attended and made the event a success.
Here are some of the highlights of the event:
- The delicious buffet dinner
- The live music from the South Yorkshire Police Band Ensemble
- The opportunity to network with VIP guests and civic dignitaries
- The chance to learn more about the work of the High Sheriff's Office
Wentworth Woodhouse - concert in the park
Bawtry Arts Festival
Wetherby Bandstand
Wetherby Bandstand post-concert review
The band performed on a gloriously sunny afternoon to a packed crowd.The band performed on a gloriously sunny afternoon to a packed crowd.
We donated our fee for the event to the Lost Chord Charity. The charity CEO Claire was with us today.Listen to her explain how the charity delivers interactive music into care homes and the community.
Comedy Tonight
Composer: Stephen SondheimArranger: Sandy Smith
Year: 1962
History: " Comedy Tonight" is a song from the musical A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum. It is the show's opening number and sets the tone for the rest of the production. The song is lively and upbeat and celebrates the joy of comedy. It is a fast-paced song with a catchy melody and a witty lyrics. "Comedy Tonight" is a classic musical theatre song that will get your toes tapping.
Memory from Cats Composer:- Soprano cornet solo
Andrew Lloyd WebberArranger: Alan Catherall
Year: 1981
History: "Memory" is a song from the musical Cats. It is sung by the character Grizabella, an ageing glamour cat looking back on her life. The song is a beautiful and haunting ballad that tells the story of Grizabella's loneliness and regret. "Memory" is one of the most popular songs from Cats and has been covered by many artists, including Barbra Streisand, Elaine Paige, and Sarah Brightman.
The Girl I Left Behind Me
Composer: Percy FrenchArranger: Gordon Langford
Year: 1892
History: "The Girl I Left Behind Me" is a traditional Irish folk song. It is a slow and mournful ballad that tells the story of a man who has left his sweetheart behind to go to sea. The song is a classic of Irish music. It has been covered by many artists, including The Clancy Brothers, The Dubliners, and The Pogues.
April in Paris - Flugel Solo
Composer: Vernon Duke Arranger: Mark Freeh Year: 1932 History: "April in Paris" is a jazz standard by Vernon Duke. It is a lively and upbeat song that captures the spirit of springtime in Paris. The song is a favourite among jazz musicians. It has been recorded by many artists, including Count Basie, Duke Ellington, and Ella Fitzgerald.
Goldcrest March
Composer: Alfred Reed Year: 1956 History: "Goldcrest March" is a military march by Alfred Reed. It is a bright and cheerful march often played at parades and other public events. The song is a favourite among marching bands. It has been performed by many ensembles, including the United States Marine Band and the Boston Pops Orchestra.
Trumpet Tune - piccolo trumpet solo Bill
Composer: John Stanley Year: 1729 History: "Trumpet Tune" is a trumpet solo composed by John Stanley. It is a short and simple piece often used as an introduction to other pieces of music.
Little Prayer - Glennie
Composer: James GalwayArranger: Unknown
Year: 1987
History: "Little Prayer" is a flute solo composed by James Galway. It is a beautiful and serene piece that is often used as a meditation or prayer.
Farandole
Composer: Georges Bizet Arranger: Unknown Year: 1875 History: "Farandole" is a lively and upbeat piece from Bizet's opera Carmen. It is a favourite among orchestras and has been performed by many ensembles, including the New York Philharmonic and the London Symphony Orchestra. The song celebrates life and is often used as a concert finale.Niagara test piece run out
NEMBBA Contest
The band were awarded third place by adjudicator David Ashworth.
Force Carol Service
The entire programme can be found on the event page.
We are recruiting: an Eb or Bb bass, a percussionist and 2nd baritone. Get in touch for an informal chat about opportunities for musicians of all ages.
National Police Bravery Awards
The awards ceremony presents awards to members of the public who have intervened in life-threatening events across the U.K. The citations were humbling.
Directed by musical director John Davis, the band played topical themes to greet each medal winner, and dinner music through the evening.
