Valley 'Brass In Concert' Championships 2008
Music Adjudicator Mr Alan Fernie
Comber band 78 marks
Punchinello: Good sounds, keep that tempo steady ! Can the trombones give me more at bass solo! Trio exposes some problems in quieter dynamics and I'd like it to be a bit steadier generally, Very Good though.
Red Rose: Some middle band problems in balance / sound production is evident. Soloist has class though. Don't slur to high Bb, be brave! Some detail lost into letter D and tutti cornets here are a bit hard for a love song. Indeed, just now and then i'm looking for more warmth in tutti band. Why have the back row come in a bar early at close? Great soloist!
Magnificent 7: Fine start to open - louder percusiion needed before B! This is your best yet and bass trom shines just in the right way. I still can't hear percussion. ( gunfire!!) Low solo cornet evades (1/3 for a low A?) A pity, Just a bit muddled to close but good playing.
They can't Take That: Bass trom again excels. Middle band balance well - top and bottom not so well, (such a trickything to do well!) Just a hint of frantic-ness into key change (Bar 44) - can it all be a touch more laid back? and maybe quieter!! Some really nice touches though! Soloist is great!
Bond: Band now sound comfortable again, Bass trom catches ear! B is very well done! More horns at D? Whats making this work so well are the tempo's from the MD!! Some wrong key reading before F? and a bit of confusion into G? Clearer balance at 122?, but we lead to an effective and very good close.
Very good band this, much to commend. Good programme, well chosen and well directed. Thank you.
Alan Fernie.