Leicestershire Brass Band Association Open Contest

    After a lazy Sunday morning (25th November) most of the Band met at the club ready for the coach to leave at 2pm (the members coming from Wales chose to make their own way).  Spirits were subdued on the way up a rain-soaked M5 towards Leicestershire.  The rehearsal / warm-up / final run-through was scheduled for 5.30pm and the coach made good time, dropping us off early: plenty of time for a drink and a biscuit, accompanied by a band rehearsing Between the Moon and Mexico.

    The pre-draw had given us the number 7 slot (out of 9 bands) - so a late performance was anticipated; and the contest was behind time as well!  Our estimated performance time of 7.30pm was being pushed further and further back.  We decided to gather at 8pm and eventually made it onto the stage about an hour later!  Our performance went well - slpis from each section meant we didn't come off stage unscathed.  A swift half in the local pub for some while others chose to listen to the final band, and then finally it was time for the results.  Our adjudicator, Brett Baker, bemoaned poor intonation and over-loud sounds, but, aware of the time, was very brief in his summary.

3rd: Ibstock Brick Brass
2nd: Wigston
1st: CITY OF BRISTOL BRASS BAND!!

   

    The coach journey home was raucous, full of song and much shorter than the journey up!  A very late night, but well worth the effort!!

---