Saturday 26th January 2008

Move Improved Gwent Band

The Blaenavon Town Junior Band came away from the Greater Gwent Youth Band Festival with Most Improved Gwent Band in Section 2 and an award for the youngest player in Section 2, 6 year old Callum Lewis.

The band was drawn number 2 and had to play in a less that packed hall at 9:45am. The programme included a Euphonium Duet 'Cherry Ripe', played by Daniel Cox and Ryan Browne.  Adjudicator, Simone Rebello, was impressed with the bands presentation and performance.

Conductor, Evan Smith, said that the band had worked really hard for the last 3 weeks putting in extra rehearsals and practicing at home.

Adjudicators Remarks

Concert Overture

Very exciting opening. Watch tuning on long notes and keep quavers staccato. Tempo is holding very well. D watch balance is clear here. E very full and rousing sound and neat finish - well done.

Cherry Ripe - Euph Duet

Nice contrast in style - watch first note is exactly together. Lovely legato style from soloists at start and good support from rest of band.  Good observation of dynamics from band.  Some tuning and intonation issues here and there to watch out for.  Good confidence from soloists. Very stylish finale to this piece.

Tromba Tango

Love the extra percussion! B great contrast in dynamics but watch that 'mp' in bar 20 is just as clear. Superb work on rhythmic features. Well done.

Radetsky March

A great rousing finale. Watch pick up to bar 5 is neat. A very good way to feature all sections of the band and everyone rises to the challenge.  Trio - very confident and full sound. Watch 'mp' dynamic at start of trio for full contrast.  Great commitment is shown right around the stand - well done.

This band plays with good attention to the conductor and the stage deportment is very professional. A very well prepared programme and very enjoyable. Well done to everyone.  Simone Rebello.

 Well done to everyone in the junior band.