The 'Valley Entertainments Contest’ 2008

On the 23rd February the band won the newly revived ‘Valley Entertainments Contest’ in Fivemiletown.

Stephen Cairns and the band opened their program with Alan Fernie's Arangement of  'Just a closer Walk' with most off the band on stage and then a processional from rear of the hall lead by Ronnie Kennedy followed by fake coffin and small band lead by John Cooke on Flugal in New Orleans Dixie Style. When the band broke into quick dixie the audience cheered in appreciation.

Next was the march Mephistopheles which the band gave a good solid rendition

Then principal euphonium Alan Haworth who picked up the soloist prize with his own humorous and very technical arrangement of ‘Delilah’ complete with knickers thrown at soloist at the end was next up, adjudictor Alan Fernie’s remarks stated - "Not much to write, just great!! outstanding stuff – great imagination and execution,……. And a lot of fun!"

Buglers' Holiday was next, with a slick no nonsance account from Mark Bingham, Jacklin Bingham and Morris Cameron.  The Adjudicator said "this is playing of quality, both from soloists and band, not to mention how well directed it is!"

Irish Blessing was next with quartet out front some excellent dynamics were remarked on

Finally the Band Concluded with The Little Russian with band playing very well throughout.

The Adudication concluded with

"A very good band, well directed without fuss, and I appreciate the effort and imagination in this excellent varied programme!

Well played, and thank you"

Alan Fernie