On Sunday 20th November, the Concert Band, Wind Band and Big Band travelled to the Rochdale to perform in the National Concert Band Festival Regional heats.They had the opportunity to play in the Gothic splendour of Rochdale Town Hall. The 80 boys involved in all three ensembles gave outstanding performances, delivering their programmes with professionalism and flair. The Big Band premiered a new work by Year 12 student, Colman Chan, called Shine and Jake Hinson performed the Artie Shaw Clarinet Concerto. Both boys were singled out for special mention. The band received a Silver award in a tough class.
In only their second outing at the National Concert Band Festival, the Windband, conducted by Peter Lacey, received a Gold award in their category and may be asked to participate in the Finals concert in March. The highest achievement of the day went to the Concert Band, directed by Gerald Douglas, who were awarded a Platinum certificate and a place in the Finals Concert at the Royal Academy of Music, performing Eric Whitacre’s challenging Ghost Train amongst other works. It was a terrific day and congratulations should go to all the boys involved for their success in this challenging National Competition.
