tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-91867184540009402212024-03-04T21:31:37.890-08:00Thames Fanfare BrassAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11087174769246211289noreply@blogger.comBlogger15125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9186718454000940221.post-14973408037951220972014-03-25T02:28:00.000-07:002014-03-25T02:32:04.229-07:00John Wallace And Roy Bilham “Camping Musical” Bariloche, Argentina Trip 5th Jan – 19th Jan 2000<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This project was the outcome of several
previously failed attempts to fulfil a demand from musicians in Buenos Aires
to foster links with British musicians to help raise instrumental standards in
Argentina. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So on the 5<sup>th</sup> January 2000 John
and myself left for our long flight to Buenos Aires and then on to Bariloche.
We were met at the airport by a welcoming deputation who had organized a
champagne reception and press conference. A TV station were there and a posse
of reporters from the local and national press. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“Camping Musical” is an association which
at the time was celebrating its 50<sup>th</sup> Anniversary. This visit came
about with the support from the British Council with whom John, and myself had
worked alongside for many years.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Bariloche is a city in the province of Rio
Negro, Argentina, situated in the foothills of the Andes on the Southern shores
of Nahuel Huapi Lake.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The camp was 25km away from the main urban
centre – San Carlos de Bariloche on an island in a very remote location. Once
on the island, among all trees were log cabins and cottages where all the
participants slept. There was also a Refectory come rehearsal area, an
auditorium and a place outside for concerts.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This was to be the first brass course that
the “Camping Musical” has ever organized. Alongside us planning this event were
two professional trumpet players from Buenos Aires, who were invaluable with
translation. Because this was a first time event there was great enthusiasm to
make this course work and a great deal of energy all round. There were a few moments where flexibility
and flair for improvisation were required but all in all it succeeded beyond
our wildest dreams.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The participants had a low opinion of their
own capabilities at the beginning and thought they would never play the
difficult works that we had organized in the programme, but day by day we
raised their perceptions of their own worth until they surprised and shocked
themselves by coming through the concerts with flying colours.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">All the participants were a complete
cross-section of Argentine Brass players the youngest player being a fourteen
year old boy who along with his mother and father had travelled 2500km from
Tucuman in the north. There were even a couple of musicians who had travelled
from Chile to take part. The level of ability was high, but because of the
diversity of age and experience the levels of achievement were mixed, high
school students, students from conservatoires, professional musicians from
provincial orchestras and major orchestras from Buenos Aires. Having all these
different levels in ability was very beneficial in speeding an upward hike in
standards.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The participants were surprised when every
day we would warm up without instruments, playing games. They entered
immediately into the spirit of things. Our days were mixed, we would have full
band, then we would split the band in half I would rehearse my half and John
his. Later we would take individual lessons, mixed duets, brass quintets and
sectional groups. It really was a full day of playing. Even after our evening
meal we would have informal work-in-progress concerts to get the participants
used to playing to each other. Word soon got about and a large audience of
locals started showing up to listen of a night time, sometimes these concerts
would go past midnight. The evenings out there were magical I have never seen
so many stars in the sky it was just breathtaking during the day the blue of
the sky was amazing and sometimes you would see the odd Condor flying over with
it’s 10ft wing span.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The food at the camp was of a very high
standard and the wine was of a very high standard too – delicious. On the last
Friday we were treated to an Asado which is a South American barbecue. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Out first official concert was held on the
last Saturday of the course in The Sala Rautenstrach, attended by 180 people.
The acoustics were excellent. On the final Sunday of the course we travelled
25km to San Carlos de Bariloche to give two concerts. First a serious programme
in the Neo Gothic Cathedral at 6.00pm, which included the music of Tallis,
Gabrieli and Mussorgsky’s “Pictures at an Exhibition” and then an outdoor
concert at 8.30pm of slightly less serious music. The cathedral was packed to
the rafters and people were even standing outside to listen, with the
spectacular backdrop of Lake Huapi and the Patagonian Andes.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The course for me was a brilliant adventure
I enjoyed every minute of it, a new experience which I grabbed with both hands.
Everybody left the course fulfilled, happy and glad they made the long journey
to participate in this wonderful event. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was a great time making music and for me
you cannot get any better than that.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thanks to the British Council for making
such a memorable <a href="http://www.thamesfanfarebrass.com/">Brass Course</a> possible.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<link href="https://plus.google.com/112861316855131191476/" rel="author"></link>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11087174769246211289noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9186718454000940221.post-25480017723000651292014-02-20T02:06:00.000-08:002014-02-20T02:06:39.539-08:00The Royal Artillery Band Farewell To Woolwich 1762-2014<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Having served 22 years in The Royal Artillery Band, finishing my service as Band Sergeant Major and Deputy Bandmaster, I knew that the weekend of the 8th-9th February would be a very proud and special two days for me. A celebration of music provided by past and present members of this amazing wind band and orchestra the likes of which we will never see or hear again.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The powers that be whose idea it was to end this magnificent band/orchestra’s 250 year reign as one of the country’s finest is beyond belief. An organisation that simply can’t be replaced – and for what I say to myself. The band/orchestra has always been multi-functional supplying multiple ensembles including Old Time Orchestras, Big Dance Bands, Pop Groups, Brass Groups, Wind Groups, Fanfare Trumpets even Dixie and Umpah Bands, you name it the band had always supplied it right up to the present day.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The new home for the Royal Artillery Band will now be in Tidworth, Wiltshire from April 2014. Amazingly though not one present day member of the band is being relocated there. Instead they are all being placed in various other army bands. In my opinion it seems that the hierarchy want to start with a clean sheet and have a completely new band with not one old member.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Royal Artillery Orchestra has also been disbanded apart from a handful of string players who will be the foundation of a new orchestra who will be made up from various other bands to create the newly formed Corps of Army Strings Orchestra. To relocate the majority of the R A Orchestra just to bring in players from different regiments is beyond belief.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Saturday 8th February the R A Wind Band and Orchestra gave their last performance in the Woolwich Town Hall. A location where the R A started playing a series of concerts since 1810, the longest running concert series in the country.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The concert opened with the Fanfare Trumpets of the RA playing a fanfare called “Royal Arsenal” which was followed by a lovely selection of wind band music accompanied by the Woolwich Military Wives Choir. The wind band played beautifully and the choir’s contribution was well received.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When the interval came this gave the packed town hall audience a chance to stretch their legs and chat and mingle with RA Band members past and present. In the second half we saw the orchestra take to the stage boosted with some ex-members and wives string players. It started with Eric Coates’ “Knightsbridge March”, followed by Alpha & Omega written by The Director of Music for The Royal Artillery Captain Craig Hallatt, apparently he wrote this piece while the band was serving in Afghanistan. He is to be congratulated it was a very fine piece of writing. As this piece was being performed, behind the orchestra was a large screen that was showing photographs of the band’s history. At this point in the concert my emotions got the better of me and I could not stop the flow of tears. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was now time for Frank Renton (Ex Director of Music of the Band) to speak about the weekend. Frank who was reputed to be the finest conductor to come out of the Armed Forces, a statement which I totally agree with. The speech he gave was very moving and left no one in any doubt that this was a very sad time for the present serving men and women of the band and the end of an era, which can never be replaced. Frank conducted “The Holberg Suite” by Grieg, played by the string section of the orchestra.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was only fitting that during the concert the orchestra played “The New World Symphony” by Dvorak, as they were the first orchestra in the world to perform this piece. It was now time for some light entertainment – the popular Post Horn Gallop – my wife Pam had my post horn in 2 pieces in her handbag so I had to quickly put it together to perform. I was number 2 of 7. We played it with antiphonal effects all around the town hall and at the end there were some brilliant cadenza’s played, the audience loved it and it went down very well as it always seems to. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The concert came to an end with the traditional RA Slow March and RA Quick March.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Bravo to the Band/Orchestra a wonderful concert.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sunday 9th February started in General Gordon Square in Woolwich, a huge screen was on display and written on it in big bold letters was “FAREWELL TO THE ROYAL ARTILLERY BAND”, followed by photos, videos and old pathe news clips, this was the start of mixed emotions for a lot of musicians.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The power of Face Book brought together in a very short time over one hundred past members to make up a concert/marching band. Some past members had not played for years, some had to borrow instruments to play. Music lyres had to be found and 1700 march cards sorted out. A huge task to make this special day work, and special it turned out to be in every way.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The veterans’ band in concert formation conducted by Frank Renton played for about 45 minutes to a very large crowd of spectators friends and families, while waiting for the Royal Artillery Band to enter the square. The present RA Band then played a selection of popular music and medals were given to those members who had been deployed to Afghanistan. Then the past and present RA Bands played together. It was now time to form up in marching band formation, over a hundred of us 3 Ex Drum Majors and 1 Ex Director of Music. Three pace rolls and then we all stepped off to “The British Grenadiers”, phew what a sound we were now on our way. So much pride – I was almost at bursting point. Could I get up that bloody hill, well we all managed it, at the top of the hill a right wheel in through the barrack gates onto the front parade ground another right wheel and counter march and we halted, where we waited for the R A Band to arrive. It was great for us to play them onto the square and march past. A very sad emotional part of the day.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Then that was it, the end. Well done to all the organizers for putting it all together and a big thank you to Captain Hallatt who allowed us veterans to be part of this great day. In the end it was a celebration of music and this wonderful Royal Artillery Band and Orchestra. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Later in the afternoon we all mixed together in the Sergeants Mess – The Band Of Brothers, everyone reflecting their time spent with the band – stories galore – mixed fortunes. A memorable day and a privilege to be in the company of past and present RA Band members.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Good luck to the present members wherever you have been sent, at least you have been fortunate to serve in this truly wonderful band.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On a personal note I will never understand why this day had to come whoever had this bright idea may I just say you have got it O so wrong.</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11087174769246211289noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9186718454000940221.post-91874216852723406872014-01-14T08:10:00.000-08:002014-01-14T08:10:30.140-08:00A FESTIVE CELEBRATION IN MUSIC 2013I have always enjoyed playing Christmas Carols, a tradition which started when I was a boy playing for the Rowntrees Cocoa Works Band some 55 years ago. The years have rolled by and the tradition still remains. Let me share with you Christmas 2013.<br /><br />This year it started on the 5th December for the Kids for Kids Candlelit Christmas Concert at All Saints Church in Fulham, London with my Thames Fanfare <a href="http://www.thamesfanfarebrass.com/">Brass Ensemble</a>. The church was packed out, we started the proceedings off with a Christmas Fanfare and segue into Once in Royal David's City, which was then followed by an introduction to the evening by Eammon Holmes, Patron of the Charity. There were several readings given by celebrities throughout the evening such as Richard Wilson OBE, Julie Etchingham and Ruth Langsford. Ruth Rendell was in attendance who is a strong supporter of the cause. Patricia Parker, founder of the charity gave a very emotional address about the work the charity had managed to do that year. There was also a lovely violin solo from Ruth Palmer and some lovely vocals from the Danes Hill Choir and the St Andrews Singers. It was a truly lovely evening and £9000 was raised which was great news. My group and I had a very enjoyable evening.<br /><br />Next up for me was the 10th December I had been asked to play at the Royal Albert Hall for the concert Christmas with the Stars which was to raise money for Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research. I was to play in Frank Renton's Concert Brass this was my third time playing in this group for this occasion. It doesn't get any better than playing at a packed out Albert Hall, also on stage with us were the Sydenham High School Choir, Fanfare Trumpets of the Scots Guards and many famous faces from television series such as Downton Abbey, Coronation Street and Emmerdale. These celebs gave their time to either sing read or just introduce the next item on the list, there was Caroline Quentin, Nicole Faraday, Heather Pearce, Clare Teal to name a few. Frank Renton was on top form with his conducting and presenting skills. I do remember when Frank was Director of Music for the Royal Artillery Band of which I was a member, our band played for this event it was Frank's first one and that was some 28 years ago and to his credit he has kept them going ever since. At the end of the concert the celebrities and the band go up to the balcony for champagne and nibbles and you get the chance to mingle with the stars which is always interesting. Another fantastic night of making music and raising money for another good cause.<br /><br />On the 12th December I would be working at St Paul's Cathedral for a concert for the VSO (Voluntary Service Overseas). I would be there with 4 of my Thames Fanfare Brass Fanfare Trumpeters. There would also be The City of London Choir performing directed by Hilary Davan Wetton. I was very excited at playing in St Paul's again as it was some 25 years ago when I last played there. Sir David Green the organiser of the event told me the Cathedral would be packed out and when the evening arrived he was not lying St Paul's was full to the brim. I stood there with my fellow Fanfare players and we opened the proceedings with the fanfare “Crowning” it sounded great even if I do say so myself. There were many famous faces there giving readings, Griff Rhys Jones, David Suchet, Hayley Mills, Mick Lyons and Sue Macgregor. Angelique Kidjo sang an African song which was stunningly good a solo voice filling the whole of St Paul's it was fantastic. Simon Johnson the organist played and we played Sir David Willcocks descants trumpet parts. It was a great evening not to be forgotten, after Sir David told me that they raised £180,000 what a great result.<br /><br />To bring my festive carol playing season to an end on the 14th December I played with Kent Festival Brass at Mote Hall in Maidstone, this time Marie Curie Cancer Care was the charity we were raising money for. The evening was a great success and the carols went down very well with the audience.<br /><br />So as long as I don't lose all my teeth I will look forward to playing carols in 2014 whether it be at such prestigious venues such as St Paul's Cathedral or The Albert Hall or even on the platform at Euston Station or on Regents Street I look forward to it all again.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11087174769246211289noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9186718454000940221.post-16539105012275093732013-11-19T06:51:00.000-08:002013-11-19T06:51:05.744-08:00REMEMBRANCE WEEKEND<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">REMEMBRANCE WEEKEND</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Having served 22 years with the Royal
Artillery Band as a trumpet player I have played the Last Post, Reveille and
Rouse more times than I can remember whether the Cavalry of Infantry version
played on the Bugle or Fanfare Trumpet, I never took it for granted it has
always been a challenge to perform it well. It can be such a difficult piece to
play at times whether you are at a graveside or a memorial.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Since leaving the Royal Artillery Band in
1987 I have still been called upon to play the Last Post on many occasions. But
a regular occurrence is the Remembrance Weekend. It starts for me on Saturday
evening with a local engagement approximately a couple of miles from my home, a
Remembrance Mass at Our Lady of the Angels Church in <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Erith</st1:city>, <st1:country-region w:st="on">Kent</st1:country-region></st1:place>.
It is always a good workout for me as there are a lot of hymns and descants.
There is also a small choir who I perform alongside too, whether it is Sanctus
from The Armed Man or Hallelujah. There is of course the laying of the wreath,
which is carried out by Commander J. Mankerty (retired) and the playing of the
Last Post and Rouse. Hopefully I will be asked again next year which will make
it my 14<sup>th</sup>.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Sunday morning is an early start; I leave
home at 8:30am with all the uniforms, music stands, instruments etc for a brass
quintet engagement for The London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham. My group -
Thames Fanfare Brass play on Shepherds Bush Green where the War Memorial is.
This year was a bright sunny morning a little cold but dry and no rain which is
always good for us. Our group has been so lucky in the 10 years we have been
playing here as it may have rained before and after the service but never
during. </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">We start playing just after 10:30am while
people take their places for the service. This year we played Dvorak-
Humoresque, Sullivan’s – The Lost Chord, Abide With Me, Amazing Grace and
finally A Nightingale Sang In Berkeley Square. There is also a parade of
soldiers that make their way from <st1:street w:st="on"><st1:address w:st="on">Shepherds
Bush Road</st1:address></st1:street> to The Memorial on The Green. Leading
the parade is Piper Bob Ash and our own TFB Drummer Tim Saxby. The parade of
soldiers fall out and take their places at the memorial. There are a few
introductory words from the Reverend Canon David Tann and then into the first
hymn – All People that on Earth Do Dwell. At 11:00am I signal to Tim our
Drummer for a drum roll which is the signal for the 2 minutes silence. Oscar
Hurst who sits next to me times the 2 minutes, he lets me know 10 seconds
before it finishes to stand by then I play the Last Post. After that the Deputy
Mayor gives his reading followed by Mrs. Joan Edwards from the Burma Star
Association, she reads the line “When you go home tell them of us and say for
your tomorrow we gave our today”. The flags are then raised and I play the
Rouse. Then Bob the piper plays while all the services lay their wreaths. Next is an address by Rabbi Geoffrey Shisler,
followed by more hymns and a blessing. I then cue for a drum roll and we play
the National Anthem.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">We then play a couple more pieces of music
while the soldiers form up for a march pass. Then that is us finished for
another year. Load up the car then back home.</span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">On Monday 11<sup>th</sup> November this
year I was playing at a new venue, for the last few years I have played at a
service at <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Bromley</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">High School</st1:placetype></st1:place> for Girls all
1500 of them. The Head of Music Kath Ridgeway had moved schools so this year I
found myself at <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Blackheath</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">High School</st1:placetype></st1:place> and playing
indoors which was a change. The Headmistress gave a nice PowerPoint
presentation which leads me into playing the Last Post and Reveille. Then Kath
played an intro into Abide With Me and in the second verse I play a lovely
descant part which always brings a tear to her eye. I always say “It wasn’t
that bad was it”. </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Now my Remembrance Weekend has come to an
end. That evening while I was watching the news I saw my friend Martin Hinton,
Principle Trumpet of the Royal Artillery band playing the Last Post at <st1:placetype w:st="on">Camp</st1:placetype> <st1:placename w:st="on">Bastion</st1:placename>
in <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Afghanistan</st1:place></st1:country-region>.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">It’s never easy playing the Last Post as
this piece of music holds lasting memories for a lot of people who have buried
loved ones. But I am honoured each year to be asked to play at these services
to pay our respects for all those men and women who past and present gave their
lives for their country.</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11087174769246211289noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9186718454000940221.post-563341169391103932013-10-22T01:42:00.002-07:002013-10-22T01:43:48.557-07:00MY SOLO VISIT TO CAPE TOWN FOR THE BRITISH COUNCIL<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 15.0pt;">I used to be
player manager of the world renowned Wallace Collection who’s leader John
Wallace is now the Principle of The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. In the
1990’s the Wallace <a href="http://www.thamesfanfarebrass.com/">Brass Ensemble</a> were undertaking lots of work with the
British Council playing concerts and taking workshops and master-classes in
many countries.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 15.0pt;">We had visited
South Africa on a couple of occasions, working in Durban, Soweto, Pretoria,
Johannesburg and Cape Town.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 15.0pt;">The British
Council knew about my Military background and approached me with an idea. They
wanted me to carry out a solo visit to Cape Town; I grabbed the opportunity
with both hands. I was to go to Cape Town for one week then John Wallace would
follow on to over see the Cape Town Brass Congress for four days. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 15.0pt;">Plans were made
and I was put in a five star hotel and was to be looked after by a Jack Simpson
who was a Staff Sergeant of the South African Staff Band. When Jack met me at
the airport he handed me my itinerary and showed me to my car. Wow what a
schedule I couldn't believe my eyes they had managed to pack in master-classes,
recitals, radio interviews, coaching and conducting The South African Staff
Band, The Royal Navy Staff Band and the Salvation Army Band plus lectures at
the Cape Town University, local schools, bands and Townships. You name it, it
was on there. I was going to have to use everything I had learned to get
through this week. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 15.0pt;">It was a very
hectic week but very enjoyable, I don’t think I slept with all the preparation
needed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 15.0pt;">My army background
came in very useful for the Army and Navy Bands and they were very interested
in the history of my army band The Royal Artillery. Both bands played at a very
high standard and it was a privilege to conduct them. I also had the pleasure
to conduct The Salvation Army Band too and after I played “Carnival of Venice
with Variations” for them which went down very well – I was just happy to get
through it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 15.0pt;">The local schools
were very interesting but so behind and the lack of resources made things
difficult they had to share instruments which were in a terrible state although
everyone had a good time and the Township Bands were great fun.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 15.0pt;">I talked at length
with Jack and we put together a draft proposal to try and get local business to
sponsor A South African Staff Band Music Academy for the under privileged kids
hopefully it would help change the image of the army too. We hoped to educate
children from surrounding areas to have access to music tuition through small
Satellite Community Teaching Centres. Jack was really up for the changes we had
a great week and he really looked after me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 15.0pt;">When John Wallace
arrived he asked me how it went I told casually, yeah it was ok, as if I had
been doing this sort of thing all my life. I can tell you the next four days
with John seemed a doddle in comparison.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 15.0pt;">Teaching one of
the tiny community bands in Cape Town.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<ahref https:="" plus.google.com="" rel="author" target="_blank" u="">Google+</ahref>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11087174769246211289noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9186718454000940221.post-55966344358117082922013-09-17T02:00:00.003-07:002013-09-17T02:00:46.335-07:00MY YEAR AT KNELLER HALL - THE MILITARY SCHOOL OF MUSIC<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">In 1966 I
was a member of The Royal Artillery Band stationed at Woolwich South East
London. I played the Cornet/Trumpet. I was very fortunate to be in this
prestigious band as most of the members were what they call Double Handed which
means they are able to play two instruments a wind and a string. When I joined
in 1965 I was accepted on just the one instrument, and I did not think I was
very good on that. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">In 1966
summer had been quite a busy time for the Band, playing at the Royal Tournament
at Earls Court and the Edinburgh Tattoo, after which we all went on summer
leave. On my return from leave I was told I would be attending Kneller Hall,
for a 1 year pupil’s course. I was thrilled to bits to get the chance to study
at this establishment, and have my first ever professional trumpet lesson.
There were quite a lot of us from Woolwich starting, although I would be the
only one from the Main Band. The others were from the Royal Artillery Junior Musician
Troop, who had started there at the age of 15. They were all a bit disgruntled
to have to do another year of lessons as they assumed now that they were 18
they would be going straight to the main band as they were now classed as men.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was elated to be there, it was a golden
opportunity for me to learn and boy did I grab it with both hands. I believe
there were about 200 pupils attending the 1966/67 course from all bands in the
land and several from overseas including the Ghurkas, Canada and Australia. </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">When we
arrived on our first day we were split into Four Company Bands A B C D. I was
put in A company. We all had to audition for our position in the band; I was
put as principal cornet of about 15 cornets. We then had to audition for Herald
Fanfare Trumpets – I was accepted into the Kneller Fanfare Team, most of them
were student bandmasters on a 3-4 year course I was accepted as they needed a
couple of pupils to make up the numbers. Then we were placed in our positions
for the full band of about 250 musicians including student bandmasters. To my
surprise I was placed on the first stand of cornets next to the principal
trumpet who was student Pyke. Wow top position out of 60 other cornets –
thrilled or what.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I was told
that I would be having trumpet lessons from Jack Macintosh – Jack was a
brilliant trumpet player and a legend – and he played for the BBC Symphony
Orchestra and the New Philharmonia. My first lesson – I was waiting outside the
professor's bunk when he turned up on his bicycle – bent down took his bike
clips off looked at me and said “Alright son, How are you?” it was as if he had
known me for ages. We got on well straight from the start and I loved my
lessons with him – if anyone pulled out of their lesson for any reason I would
be straight there taking their place. Some of the Ghurka's found it a real
strain but I loved every minute of it. The music that Jack could play on his
trumpet he had amazing lip flexibility and was well known for his Cowboy
Cadenzas.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Again I was
lucky enough to be chosen to play in the Student No1 Band which meant many
radio broadcasts conducted by Lt Col Basil Brown.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">In November
of that year I was very nervous I had to play Last Post and Reveille in front
of the whole school. I did it thank god and it went well.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">My A Company
Band played at several concerts around the Richmond area including The Star
& Garter and the Darby & Joan Club; these were all good experiences for
the band. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Christmas
was nearly here and time had just flown by my trumpet was hardly away from my
lips from first thing in the morning till late at night, playing all kinds of
repertoire – church music, large dance band music, brass groups, jazz, Dixie
and pop you name it I had a go at it and really got involved. I could not get
enough. I had to make myself put down my trumpet at 9pm so I could go and meet
the lads at the pub and catch up with them (on the drinking front) we had many
laughs in the Duke of Cambridge – which was the local pub just opposite the
Guard Room.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">When the end
of January came around a film crew came to Kneller Hall for five days to film a
documentary “Look at Life”. I am still waiting to see it. It would bring back
such happy memories for me.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I even got
into the school football team; I hadn't played since my school days. I bought
my first pair of real football boots (I think they are still in the shed now)
we had a good team and we managed to win the league, I've still got my medal.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Then the
competitions started, first up was the Concert Band. We played Rienzi – I remember
because it started with a solo trumpet and we won. Then came the Marching
Display, it was the year that Sandy Shaw won the Eurovision Song Contest with
Puppet on a String, so our Student Bandmaster arranged it so we could play it
on our Marching Display.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">May was the
start of the weekly Bandstand Concerts (On The Rock) as it was called – hour
upon hour would be spent rehearsing for these concerts and at the end of every
month there would be a Grand Concert when a named musical celebrity was invited
to conduct the large band, such names as Geoffrey Brand, Harry Mortimer and
Frank Wright. On one of these concerts Gilbert Vinter would be the Conductor
and I would be playing a cornet solo “Roses from Picardy”. On another occasion
Derek Garside, principal cornet player for the CWS (Manchester) Band would be
the guest soloist for the concert. It was my job however to play his part in
all of the rehearsals for the concert. The two pieces Facilita and Cleopatra
were very difficult to play but it was a great opportunity for me and I gained
a great deal from the challenge. At the last Grand Concert of the year the
guest Conductor was Trevor Sharpe and on this concert I was to play a solo
called El Silencio, these Grand Concerts proved to be very popular and on average
4,500 people would come to listen and see the large firework displays at the
end.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">My year was
nearly up, just one more competition; it was for the Cousins Memorial Medal.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">1<sup>st</sup>
Prize Pupil Henderson Gordon Highlanders 89%</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">2<sup>nd</sup>
Prize Pupil Wood Welsh Guards 88%</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">3<sup>rd</sup>
Prize Pupil Bilham Royal Artillery 87%</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">No medal for
me, but I gave it my best shot. My professor of trumpet Jack Macintosh gave me
a “Very Good” in my report and my Commander gave me a “very auditable result”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I had a
wonderful year at Kneller Hall and I would not have missed it for the world. I
loved my lessons with the legendary Jack Macintosh and did learn my rudiments
of music and my scales. The year was a very rewarding experience and I met a
lot of great guys and students. I guess I must have improved enough not to be
posted to Larkhill or Germany RA Bands. I stayed at Woolwich for 21 years and
finished my service as WO1 Band Sergeant Major and Deputy Band Master.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">This article was brought to you by <a href="http://thamesfanfarebrass.com/">Thames Fanfare Brass </a></span></div>
<a href="http://thamesfanfarebrass.com/">
</a><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11087174769246211289noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9186718454000940221.post-56375318879019748212013-07-16T01:31:00.003-07:002013-07-16T01:31:28.431-07:00BRITISH WEEK IN SAN FRANCISCO U.S.A. 1-9 OCTOBER 1971<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Back in 1971 while I was serving with the
Royal Artillery Band news came in that the band would be visiting San Francisco
in the first week of October, I was thrilled as this would be my first every
trip to America.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The day arrived for us to leave we flew by
British Airways 707. Travelling with us was HRH Princess Alexandra who of
course was travelling first class away from us rabble. Also on board were the
Royal Scots Pipe Band, British Bobbies and Beefeaters. We were treated as if we
were in first class as it was free drink for the whole flight over, so as you
can imagine that went down very well with everyone. We were even given 200
Rothmans King size filter cigarettes to hand out to local people during our
visit.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">British week in <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">San Francisco</st1:place></st1:city> at the time was to be the
biggest commercial and cultural event staged in the city by another nation.
When we arrived we were taken to <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placetype w:st="on">Fort</st1:placetype>
<st1:placename w:st="on">Mason</st1:placename></st1:place> which was to be our
accommodation for the week. Wow what a magnificent view we had to the left was
The Golden Gate Bridge and to the right was <st1:place w:st="on">Alcatraz</st1:place>.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The Royal Artillery Band had a busy
schedule for the week with concerts and marching displays this meant that on
occasion the band had to be split into two bands A&B.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">HMS Blake a Guided Missile Cruiser of the
Tiger Class was also scheduled to visit at the same time as us her 100 strong
Royal Guard with the Queen’s colours would parade for Princess Alexandra at the
City Hall before she officially opened the promotion. There was even a Rolls
Royce on display and the Flying Scotsman Locomotive had been transported over
for the event.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">PROGRAMME OF EVENTS;</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">1<sup>st</sup> October</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">10.00am Opening Ceremony Full Band Marching
with 8 <span style="color: red;">Herald Trumpeters</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">2.00pm
Union Square Full and Concert</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">4.15pm
Bank of <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">America</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">Plaza</st1:placetype></st1:place> A Band</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">5.15pm
Cannery B Band</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">2<sup>nd</sup> October</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">10.00am Golden Gate Park Highland Games
Full Band Marching</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">12.00pm <st1:street w:st="on"><st1:address w:st="on">Post Street</st1:address></st1:street>, Maiden Lane Full Band
Marching</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">12.45pm Masonic Auditorium Full Band
Concert</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">2.30pm
<st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Golden Gate</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">Park</st1:placetype></st1:place> Full Band Marching</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">4.45pm
Civic Centre A Band</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">4.45pm
<st1:street w:st="on"><st1:address w:st="on">Union Square</st1:address></st1:street> B Band</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">3<sup>rd</sup> October</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">10.00am Golden Gate Park Highland Games
Full Band Marching</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">12.00pm <st1:place w:st="on">Union</st1:place>
Square A Band</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">1.00pm
Stonestown Fashion Show B Band</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">2.30pm
Golden Gate Park Full Band Marching in presence of Princess Alexandra</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">5.00pm
Grace Cathedral One Trumpet playing Last Post Reveille </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">5.30pm
Cannery B Band</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">4<sup>th</sup> October</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">12.15pm
<st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Zellerbach</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">Plaza</st1:placetype></st1:place> A Band</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">12.15pm
<st1:street w:st="on"><st1:address w:st="on">Ghirardelli Square</st1:address></st1:street> B Band</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">3.00pm
<st1:street w:st="on"><st1:address w:st="on">Union Square</st1:address></st1:street> B Band</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">6.00pm
<st1:place w:st="on">Union</st1:place> Square A Band</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">5<sup>th</sup> October</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Day Off for A Band</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">10.00am <st1:placename w:st="on">Shrinners</st1:placename>
Children’s <st1:placetype w:st="on">Hospital</st1:placetype> B Band</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">2.30pm
<st1:street w:st="on"><st1:address w:st="on">Union Square</st1:address></st1:street> B Band</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">5.00pm
Bank of <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">America</st1:place></st1:country-region> B Band and Pipes</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">6<sup>th</sup> October</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">12.00pm
<st1:street w:st="on"><st1:address w:st="on">Union Square</st1:address></st1:street>
Full Band Marching and Concert</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">2.30pm
Stonestown Fashion Show B Band</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">4.30pm
Civic Centre A Band</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">7<sup>th</sup> October</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Day Off B Band</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">12.00 <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Zellerbach</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Plaza</st1:placetype></st1:place> A Band</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">5.00pm
Grant Avenue, Maiden Lane A Band</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">8<sup>th</sup> October</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">12.00pm <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Standard</st1:placename> <st1:placename w:st="on">Oil</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">Plaza</st1:placetype></st1:place> A band</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">12.00pm <st1:street w:st="on"><st1:address w:st="on">Union Square</st1:address></st1:street> B Band</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">6.00pm
<st1:street w:st="on"><st1:address w:st="on">Union Square</st1:address></st1:street>
Full Band Concert</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">9<sup>th</sup> October</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">11.00am
<st1:place w:st="on">Union</st1:place> Square A Band</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">2.30pm
Stonestown Fashion Show B Band</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">3.00pm
Ghirardelli Square A Band</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">7.00pm
<st1:street w:st="on"><st1:address w:st="on">Union Square</st1:address></st1:street>
Full Band Pipes and Closing Ceremony and Retreat.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">I remember during the week one trumpet player
out of the band would have to go to <st1:state w:st="on">Arizona</st1:state>
this was between me and Ken Davidson – Ken got the nod so off he went to play a
<a href="http://www.thamesfanfarebrass.com/">fanfare</a> for the opening of <st1:placename w:st="on">London</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Bridge</st1:placetype> which had been transported over to <st1:placename w:st="on">Havasu</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">City</st1:placetype>
in <st1:state w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Arizona</st1:place></st1:state>
and taken 3 years to re-construct. That was a nice little date for him one
which he would never forget.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">A fantastic week was had by all – lots of
happy hours spent in a wonderful city. We had time to see the Giant Redwoods
and drive over the <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Golden Gate</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype w:st="on">Bridge</st1:placetype></st1:place>. I loved the cable
cars, no wonder they retain their place in the affections of residents and
visitors alike. We went to <st1:place w:st="on">Chinatown</st1:place> which was
a very busy and lively place to visit and live. We also took a shine to
Fisherman’s Wharf and their fabulous seafood restaurants.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">British week in <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">San Francisco</st1:city></st1:place> was a memorable visit; I
returned home absolutely knackered but thrilled to have been part of this one
off event. I still have many stories and anecdotes rattling around in my head
from this tour.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">THAT WAS A WEEK THAT WAS!</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11087174769246211289noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9186718454000940221.post-16186089265844815032013-06-17T01:46:00.000-07:002013-06-17T01:46:20.566-07:00Royal Dinner - The Army Benevolent Fund - The Variety Club of Great BritainIn the presence of
H.R.H. The Princess Anne, Mrs Mark Phillips, GCVO
Royal Artillery Mess
Woolwich
Thursday 24th July 1986
The evening marked the retirement of General Sir John Mogg as president of the Army Benevolent Fund.
This would be my last Royal dinner in the Woolwich Officers Mess. The scene was set for our special Royal visitor. There were two 25 pounder Guns on display outside the Mess and <a href="http://www.thamesfanfarebrass.com/">Herald Trumpeters</a> announcing the Arrival of Princess Anne.<br />
<br />
The Officers Mess has been on this site since 1783 making it one of the oldest in the British Army with its magnificent chandeliers and priceless silverware on display. The Mess servants known as the “white waiters” were dressed in Georgian uniforms from the original colour of the Livery.
The evening started with a Sunset Ceremony by the Band of The Royal Artillery marching on parade to the Royal Artillery Slow March. Then came some incidental music of Trumpet Tune and Air followed by the playing of Sunset. Finally the Band marched off to their own quick march “British Grenadiers”.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=9186718454000940221" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="color: black;"><br /></span></a>My evening was going to be spent playing dinner music with the Royal Artillery Orchestra, under its Director Major Frank Renton.
The music program was as follows:
“Marching Strings” Ross
Overture “Die Schone Galathea” Suppe
Symphony No 92 in G Major Haydn
(The Oxford)
Adagio, Allegro Spiritoso
Adagio
Allegretto
Presto
Selection “Guys and Dolls” Loesser
Selection “Dam Yankees” Adler
“A Birthday Bouquet” Arr. Renton
March “Florentiner” Fucik
Regimental Marches
Post Horn Gallop
I had played in the R.A. Mess on numerous occasions during my 22 years service and at the end of the dinner the trumpet player had to perform the Coach Horn Solo followed by the Post Horn Gallop, luckily for me my solo went well and was well received.<br />
<br />
The menu for the evening was as follows:
Fresh Melon Marsala
Eggs Mimosa
Darne of Scottish Salmon Hollondaise
Lorette Potatoes Broccoli Spears
Mange-Tout
Lemon Sorbet
Canapes St. James
Petit Fours
Coffee
It was a very successful evening and much needed money was raised for the Army Benevolent Fund Childrens Section<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
.
<a href="http://www.thamesfanfarebrass.com/tfb/brass-ensemble/"><img alt="brass ensemble" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVTEGchnz4PxWqNGUza3lKNiJnI7VYFor_6VzgVfGLx3Y3W1YvmDNmQD3Th-Ni7YuRLFCodlgZXBKeXuQvcvkTftIxk8IfbCh5GMz85IdsR9MuGFIVugQIBseKDo0-i6c70vMhDlxBKb4/s400/brass+ensemble.jpg" title="" width="211" /></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11087174769246211289noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9186718454000940221.post-67948675018237213502013-05-07T07:01:00.001-07:002013-06-17T01:35:06.573-07:00Playing at Wembley<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Myself and many of my colleagues have
probably spent more time on the hallowed Wembley turf than England captain
Bobby Moore. Not playing football but playing our musical instruments.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">On the 20<sup>th</sup> April 1968 The Royal Artillery Band played for the Amateur Cup Final at Wembley. This
was my first time playing at the world famous stadium. My next time would be
for a School Boy International football match. I remember the noise of 95,000
school kids all screaming and cheering the noise was unbelievable. England won
2-1 against Germany and I was paid an extra £1-10s for playing wahooo. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Before the match started the band played
from the centre spot, a selection of popular tunes and community singing led by
Bill Scott Coomber. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Next we played the National Anthems of both
sides and then marched off into the tunnel ready for the half time marching
display. Our marching display was called an Arrow Head which included slow and
quick marching at the same time and the band ended up looking like an Arrow
Head hence the name. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">After the display we never stayed to watch
the football as we would have to get straight on the coaches for the journey
back to the barracks at Woolwich.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Here is a list of the international matches
which I played for.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US">12th March 1969
England 5-0 France</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US">22<sup>nd</sup>
May 1974 England 2-2 Argentina</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US">12<sup>th</sup>
March 1975 England 2-0 Germany</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US">7<sup>th</sup>
September 1977 England 0-0 Switzerland</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US">29<sup>th</sup>
November 1978 England 1-0 Czechoslovakia</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US">7<sup>th</sup>
February 1979 England 4-0 Northern Ireland</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US">13<sup>th</sup>
May 1980 England 3-1 Argentina</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US">25<sup>th</sup>
March 1981 England 1-2 Spain</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US">16<sup>th</sup>
June 1982 England 3-0 France</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US">15<sup>th</sup>
December 1982 England 9-0 Luxemburg</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US">1<sup>st</sup>
June 1983 England 1-0 Scotland</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US">THE ARMY’S TOP
BRASS ON PARADE AT WEMBLEY</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US">In the centre of
the giant Wembley Stadium more than 200 <a href="http://www.thamesfanfarebrass.com/">Herald Trumpeters</a>
and Buglers raised their instruments for a giant fanfare. The Military Musical
Pageant of 1973 was underway.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US">As the last
notes of the fanfare died away a great mass of men began pouring into the
stadium. The massed bands of the Foot Guards followed by the Mounted Bands of
the Life Guards, The Blues and Royals, Household Cavalry and The Royal
Artillery.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">
This was the biggest show ever staged anywhere by British Bands and in
one word it was SPECTACULAR.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The two men behind the Musical Pageant were
Major Aubrey Jackman, the producer and Lt Colonel Rodney Bashford, The Army’s
Senior Director of Music and Director of Music at The Royal Military School of
Music, Kneller Hall.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">After the spectacular opening there was the
Gaelic Gathering of the massed pipes, drums and Irish Regiments. Then in
complete contrast was the massed bands and bugles of the Light Division,
marching at their distinctive rifle pace, they performed the Light Fantastic
which was a brilliant display of marching in slow and quick time.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Then the musicians gathered together to
form the biggest of big bands, more than 1500 musicians belting out tunes from
the 1970’s.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">But the high spot of the evening for me was
the 1812 Overture. There were men in period dress firing muskets, The Guns of
The Kings Troop Royal Horse Artillery firing as the music reached its dramatic
climax, while the Armies of Bandsmen re-enacted The Battle of Borodino in
music.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">For the finale all the bands gathered on
the turf to play together while giant search lights picked out the scenes and
fireworks were launched.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">It was the start of many musical pageants
and many many more hours standing on that Wembley turf.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">I played at another five of these pageants
before I retired from the Army and each one was as good as the last.</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11087174769246211289noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9186718454000940221.post-27729194892689722013-04-12T03:22:00.001-07:002013-06-17T01:52:38.764-07:00Lord Mayors Show 1965 Most Embarrassing Moment <div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">While serving in the Royal Artillery Band
in 1965 The Lord Mayors Show was to be one of my first big engagements with the
band.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">This is a show which is an annual parade
that marks the inauguration of the Lord Mayor of London. This parade is a very
precise event and every band, float, horse; car etc in the procession had an
exact gap between each other which was measured out by one man. The event was
also timed to perfection; the procession would take over 1 hour to pass any one
point. The three mile procession fits into 1.7 mile route. It travels via St
Paul’s between 11.05 and 12.30 and returns by the Embankment between 1.00 and
2.30 which makes this a street parade on a massive scale.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">So back to 1965, the assembly area for all
the various bands which included mounted bands, pipe bands, majorette bands and
service bands was a huge six acre grass area in the grounds of the Royal
Honourable Artillery Company. Oh boy was it cold on that day, we all lined up
in order for the parade, hundreds and hundreds of musicians, with only a few
toilets. I recall standing around for well over an hour before the first band was called forward to join the parade with
the floats etc.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">It was now our turn to join the parade with
a band of over sixty musicians</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
all in full ceremonial
dress. This included a Busby with plume and gold chain. New blues jacket, which
was tight around the neck, a gold cross belt and sword this meant that underneath
the jacket you had to wear a leather strap that would come out the back of the
jacket through a slit which meant the sword and scabbard could hang from it,
all very uncomfortable. The trousers were made to fit like a glove and at the
bottom of them there was a buckle and strap which meant they could be fastened
under your new George boots which had spurs on. So when you put your braces on
you had to pull them up as far as they would go so that your trousers were as
tight as possible. Then a new pair of white gloves which had to be buttoned up
at the wrist. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So there I was in all
my glory holding my cornet which had all 12 double sided march cards attached
to a music lyre. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My embarrassing moment
was about to begin. On this occasion the RA was using a very large band of
about 80 I was at the very back with the other cornets. We had been waiting a
good hour before it was our turn to march off I was very excited to be involved
knowing that all the streets would be full with thousands of spectators. Here
we go The Drum Major brought us all to attention and shouted Band by the Centre
Quick March. At this everybody brought their instruments up to start playing as
I did but I brought mine up too quick and the whole twelve marching cards
splattered all over the road the band was now playing and marching off away
from me there I was bending down to try and pick up my cards with my gloved
hands which was nigh on impossible, when I felt the ping of my braces coming
off their buttons then at the same time my bloody Busby fell off landing on top
of the cards I could see the band getting further away. And panic came washing
over me I was now trying to remove my gloves which was proving to be impossible
then to make matters worse I heard a booming voice above me say FOR GOODNESS
SAKE GUNNER MUSICIAN WHATEVER YOU ARE HURRY UP YOU ARE HOLDING UP THE WHOLE
LORD MAYORS SHOW. As I looked up I saw this officer astride a huge horse
looking down at me with pure distain, and at that point to make matters even
worse I felt a warm wet trickle run down my neck which was the horse’s saliva.
Saying sorry sir sorry sir I gathered up all my stuff and tried to run back to
the band while wiping horse saliva off my neck trying to put my cards in some
sense of order and putting my Busby back on my head. I could hear the crowd
laughing and pointing at me. I caught up with the band not knowing which march
we were playing and winging it until we got to the halfway point where I could
put myself back together again. I just wanted the ground to open up and swallow
me whole. The back line of the cornets could not stop laughing and telling
everyone about the new lad who had just joined the band. Luckily for me my drum
major never found out.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It was quite an
experience and I was well knackered at the end of it. While serving with the
Royal Artillery Band I performed in 19 Lord Mayors Shows plus one with the
Royal Yeomanry Band and one with Thames Fanfare Brass Dixie Band, which was a
lot of fun, we were working for Esso Blue, playing their advert music theme
‘Esso Blue For Happy Motoring’ and Dixie numbers in between for 3 miles.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So to finish this
story I never dropped my march cards again it really was very embarrassing and
I will never forget it.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am still involved
with the Lord Mayor, not in his show but performing with my <a href="http://www.thamesfanfarebrass.com/tfb/brass-ensemble/">brass ensemble</a>
Thames Fanfare Brass at banquets held in the Mansion House, the home of the
Lord Mayor, which he attends. I have now been performing at the Mansion House
for 50 years, how time flies when you’re having fun.<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11087174769246211289noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9186718454000940221.post-30857144162079293732013-04-09T06:56:00.001-07:002013-06-17T01:31:28.433-07:00Brass Ensemble Instrument Care and Repair<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Roy Bilham director
of Thames Fanfare Brass and British State Trumpeters has been a professional
brass musician for over 50 years playing in Brass Bands, Orchestras, Wind
Bands, Brass Quintets and <a href="http://www.thamesfanfarebrass.com/tfb/brass-ensemble/">Brass Ensembles</a>. He has also been a teacher of brass for over 40 years.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Regular maintenance on your instrument is
very important, a little time and effort will certainly pay off and should
avoid problems which could lead to a very costly repair bill. However be aware
of attempting to repair your instrument yourself however small. If you have any doubts consult a qualified
instrument technician for advice.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">LOOKING AFTER YOUR BRASS INSTRUMENT</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">These cleaning principles can cover Fanfare
Trumpets – All Trumpets/Cornets – Tenor Horns/Flugels –
Baritones/Euphonium/Tubas.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The two most important factors to remember
in caring for your brass instrument are
cleanliness and regular lubrication.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">1.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Flush out your instrument at
least every 4-6 weeks with mild soapy water. For example a trumpet would only
need a few drops of fairy liquid down the bell followed by a sauce pan of warm
water poured down the bell after. This works well and you get a continuous flow
through the cornet/trumpet. Then rinse with cold water and dry thoroughly. Do
not use hot water as this could be dangerous to you and the lacquer on your
instrument.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">2.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">A flexible cleaning brush
should be used to clean out slides and tubing, but make sure this is renewed
once a year to avoid breakage inside the instrument.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">3.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Use a valve case cleaning brush
to clean out the valve casings.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">4.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Use a lint free cloth such as
cheese cloth as a swab. This may also be used to wipe the pistons which should
be carefully removed and special care taken to replace them in the right order
(clean one valve replace and so on).</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">5.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Use only a quality tuning slide
grease when lubricating the slides and a minimum amount of valve oil on the
pistons. The use of inferior lubricants can affect the performance of your
instrument.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">6.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Make sure that the mouthpieces
are cleaned thoroughly with warm water a dirty mouthpiece or mouth pipe can be
detrimental in the response of your instrument.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">7.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Care should be taken when
polishing lacquered and silver plated instruments. Harsh abrasives must be
avoided at all times and only the correct cleaning cloths should be used.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">8.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Try to keep your instrument in
an atmosphere of even temperature and humidity. Do not leave it in direct
sunlight or near a radiator even when it is in its case.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">9.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">For trombones fill the complete
slide with soapy warm water and activate the slide up and down several times.
Remove the water and rinse through with clean clear water as necessary.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">10.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">The inner and outer slides should be disassembled and cleaned using
a cleaning brush in conjunction with any good slide cleaning kit to make sure
that the cleaning reaches the bottom bow of the outer slide.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">11.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">A small amount of good quality slide cream should be applied to the
inner slide stocking and sprayed with clear water.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US">12.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Ensure that the bell and tuning slide are kept clean by running them
through with lukewarm water and a tuning slide swab. After drying with a lint
free cloth apply tuning slide grease before reassembling.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Al Cass fast valve slide and key oil.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Superslick care kit for trumpet/cornet.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Yamaha trombone maintenance cleaning kit
cork grease and brush.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Herco slide grease.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">MUSIC SHOPS</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Phil Parker – Dawkes Music</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">So the bottom line ladies and gentlemen
boys and girls – as teachers we don’t want to see sausage, egg, bacon and chips
lining your mouthpieces.</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11087174769246211289noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9186718454000940221.post-52147857635035668742013-03-08T01:36:00.000-08:002013-06-17T01:29:12.618-07:00British State Trumpeters: Uniforms - FormationsIt was a privilege to meet an outstanding
Bagpiper many years ago his name is Bob Murphy. He was forever featured on
television-adverts-films-TV series. He has played on the film The English
Patient, TV series Edward the King, The Years of Waiting and Til Death Do Us
Part to name a few.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">When Bob completed his army service with
the Gordon Highlanders he formed his own group called the Caledonian Pipers and
Dancers, he also formed a brass group to accompany the pipers they were dressed
in bearskins and red tunics just like the guards, so with the pipers in
Scottish dress kilts n all and the brass group in their red tunics it was a
very colourful sight.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Bob and I formed a very happy working
relationship which lasted many years; we collaborated on marching displays for
hospitality and corporate events and even spent several days in Aviemore
Scotland for a car launch. Very popular with Hotel cabarets with the dancers.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">During a telephone conversation with Bob I
asked him what he was going to do with all those brass uniforms now he had
retired. He said ‘sell them’ so there I was ‘buying them’ ending my
conversation with 6 bearskins and a huge box of red tunics and black trousers.
I got them home took one look at my wife’s face and knew they had to go up into
the loft pretty quick and there they stayed for a few years.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Being a former
Band Sergeant Major of the Royal Artillery Band I was interested to hear
about the change in the Category 4 rules, this meant that band musicians would
not be paid above their army pay for private functions – the money would go
back to the Ministry of Defense. Now if you know musicians you will know that
they are not keen on working overtime for nothing. I realized now that my
civilian fanfare team could now get some of this work.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">I woke up one morning very early with the
bright idea of British State Trumpeters. I could give that military look of
bearskins red tunics sashes and swords and not have to pay the Ministry of
Defense a penny. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Firstly I had to register the name at
Companies House. I thought I might have a problem with the word ‘State’ but it
turned out that the word ‘British’ was going to be the problem. To use the word
‘British’ in any company name you have to prove that you are pre-eminent in
your field. After writing to several contacts that I have met along the way
they kindly wrote letters to the Sensitive Names Department at Companies House
stating that I was pre-eminent in this field and worthy of using the word
‘British’ in my new company. Several weeks passed and I received a phone call
from the Sensitive Names Department letting me know that I had been granted
permission to use the word ‘British’ and there would be a letter in the post to
confirm this. I was over the moon. Next came registering the domain names for
BST I managed to secure all the important ones .com, .co.uk, .net and .org.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Thames Fanfare <a href="http://www.thamesfanfarebrass.com/">Brass ensemble</a> is now in its 26<sup>th</sup>
year and its website was a bit frayed around the edges and in need of an
update. So with the help of Rocketfish and SEO and web Design Company we set
off building a new website. I was told this would only take approx 8 weeks, 18
weeks later we were up and running better late than never I guess.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">I realized that I would be needing more
bearskins as I only had 6. I searched around on e bay and asked some old
contacts but there were very few about and the ones that were, were very
expensive, so I decided to give Bob a call again and ask him if he had anymore.
Luckily for me he had another 6 so I took them and also bought 2 wonderful
Wilkinson swords.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">I now had all the tunics cleaned and new
gold braiding sewn on them. I didn’t want to go with the white belts so I had
red sashes made up and designed new banners for the Fanfare Trumpets.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">I was in contact with Prestige Promotions
and they were organizing a Super Car Rally ‘The Italian Job’ from Chilston
Hotel, Kent. I told them I had formed a new Fanfare Group called British State
Trumpeters, they liked the idea so they booked two trumpets to start the Rally.
This was a great opportunity to get some pictures for publicity. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">I decided it would be a good idea to get
some video footage of BST to put on you tube, so off I went with my group to
play fanfares at various venues. I also thought it would be a good idea to get
some new photos of Thames Fanfare Brass; fortunately we had a booking for the
F1 Team Lotus end of season gala. This event was a great success and we managed
to get some great photos with the F1 Lotus car. Then came the Royal Film
Premier of the film The Hobbit, yet again we managed to get some brilliant
photos of our Herald
Trumpeters at this special event. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The website is now live and looking pretty
good, there is lots of pictures and fanfares to listen to, we are now on
facebook, twitter and Google +. Fingers crossed we will be getting enquiries
and bookings soon. We now need to work even harder than we have been doing over
these past months to get the work in. Hopefully in the near future British
State Trumpeters will be busy just like its older sibling Thames Fanfare Brass. </span></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11087174769246211289noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9186718454000940221.post-63402215500970147232013-03-05T07:41:00.000-08:002013-06-17T01:28:21.295-07:00Christmas Caroling<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Brings back happy
memories Hark the Herald Angels Sing—trumpet fanfares—descants—brass
bands—choirs—decorations—the works. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">I have always enjoyed playing Christmas Carols, it all
started when I was about 14 years of age and was a member of the Rowntree's
Cocoa Works Band in York. Every year the band played carols for the city's
various hospitals and nursing homes. This tradition continued every year until
I left the band.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">When I was 20 years of age I joined the Royal
Artillery Band in Woolwich, London so for the next 22 years there was
always lots of Christmas Concert performances.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">I became player/manager of the world renown brass group The Wallace Collection so for the next
13 years there were Christmas Carol concerts to be performed. The high light
every year was performing at the Royal Albert Hall with The Bach Choir with Sir
David Willcocks the conductor keeping us all together. We played two concerts
back to back to a packed Royal Albert Hall. By the way Katherine
the Duchess of Kent always sang with the choir but only on the afternoon
performance—she always loved it. Sadly this time came to an end when John
Wallace CBE was appointed Principle of the Royal Conservatoire of
Scotland, a position he still holds to this day. The Wallace Collection years
had came to an end.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">When I left The Royal Artillery Band I decided to form
my own brass group called Thames Fanfare <a href="http://www.thamesfanfarebrass.com/">Brass Ensemble</a>
which by the way is now in it's 26th year so my own group still manages to play
carols at Christmas. Only two years ago we were engaged to play carols for
three days at the St. Modwen Shopping Centre at the Elephant and Castle, London
and for the Regent Street Association a couple of days in South Molton
Street.London.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Three years ago my Herald
Trumpeters were asked to perform a fanfare for the start of a celebrity
Christmas concert for the charity Kids for Kids, the concert was a great
success and the following year we returned again but this time with my brass
quintet Thames Fanfare Brass. The concert was again a great success and much
needed money was raised.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">After the concert I talked to the founder of the
charity Patricia Parker MBE and I suggested that we might be able to raise
money next year by playing carols at one of the railway stations, so around
July time arrangements were put in place for us to perform at Euston Station
before the celebrity concert date.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">29th November I made my way to Euston Station
for a 12-30pm start armed with trumpet, music stands, carol books amp, backing
cd's father Christmas hats and with warm clothes on, I was allocated a
spot at the station where we would be allowed to perform and we should
not move from there (health and safety reasons) lets put this way it was
cold, draughty and not the best position to be had, never mind we just got on
with it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Out came all the old
favourites rocking around the Christmas tree, Jingle Bells, Bing Crosby and Nat
King Cole then I would play for half an hour on the trumpet, this combination
went on until 4-00 pm when I was joined by another two trumpets......trombone,
French horn and a euphonium ,so now with the added instruments and a
bigger brass sound the collecting buckets were starting to rattle. 7-00 pm
arrived I was well shattered and could not feel my lips any more, the lads were
great and very supportive of the cause.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">The very next day bright and early I received a
telephone call from Patrice Parker who was truly over the moon with excitement
that we had managed to raise £679-33p.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Now on the 16 December
my brass group were performing at All Saints church Fulham, Candlelit Christmas
Concert sponsored by Sciteb Ltd hosted by the celebrity Eamonn Holmes of Sky
television and readers The Baroness Rendell of Babergh CDE.Lord Cope of
Berkeley PC,Alistair Burt MP and Richard Wilson OBE.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">What with Richard Wilson, Ruth Rendell the choir of
the Danes Hill school, St Andrews Singers, saxophone solo and the very popular
Post Horn gallop played by yours truly, carol descants and fanfares and the
witty TV presenter Eamonn Holmes we were in for a great concert and a
night to remember which we did knowing that the charity Kids for Kids had
raised just under £10,000 and I remember leaving the concert with a good feel
factor Christmas period had arrived,</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Why is a goat/donkey so important in Darfur?</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Because without a goat/donkey life is virtually
impossible in the vast expanse that is Darfur even small children walk
miles across the desert to reach water -a goat/donkey is a life saver,
transforming the life of a thirsty child.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11087174769246211289noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9186718454000940221.post-6740097755945816352012-12-10T03:02:00.001-08:002013-06-17T01:23:43.171-07:00443rd Anniversary Dinner<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="Standard">
<span lang="EN-US"> I
received a telephone call from the Clerk of the Worshipful Company of
Basketmakers in February this year asking whether my Brass Group, Thames
Fanfare <a href="http://www.thamesfanfarebrass.com/">Brass Ensemble</a>, would be available
to play for their 443<sup>rd</sup> Anniversary Dinner which was to be held on
the 19<sup>th</sup> September 2012. Fortunately we were available he told me it
was to be held at the Mansion House in London, the home of the Lord Mayor of
London during his term of office. Everything was agreed in principle over the
phone and all that was left to do was send a formal contract and the engagement
would be sealed. Thames Fanfare Brass was formed in 1987 and I am still using
some of the musicians that were with me back then, some have moved away from
the London area but still travel to do engagements with me, which they
sometimes combine with shopping trips or catching up with old friends. My Tuba
player Matthew likes to book his ticket in advance as it’s cheaper and bearing
in mind he travels from Cardiff for me who can blame him. My pianist travels from the Isle of Wight to
carry out these engagements so he likes to make his travel plans early too.
Sometimes he comes up a day in advance so we can get a game of golf in and have
a nice meal. Bob who is also a very good Trumpet player played in the Royal
Artillery Band with myself and after seven years of service left for a
professional Trumpet position with the Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra where
he stayed for 13 years after which he moved to the BBC Concert Orchestra as
principle trumpet.</span></div>
<div class="Standard">
<br /></div>
<div class="Standard">
<span lang="EN-US">Back to the Mansion House engagement there
is a lot of preparing to do for these occasions the choice of music to be
played throughout the evening has to be carefully put together to combine old
and new and maybe even a few pieces relevant to the organization itself which
can prove quite difficult with some of the old Livery Companies. The uniforms,
music stands, music pads, lights, changing arrangements, parking and even
arranging a meal for the group has to be carried out. I normally leave home at
4:30 when I arrive I then meet the Clerk or the Beadle to check all
arrangements and find out the signal I will be given to let me know when to
begin the fanfares for the arrival of the Lord Mayor and to top and tail all
other procedures that will be needed throughout the evening. This particular
even was a very grand affair men dressed in tails and ladies in their best
gowns. The banquet was a great success and Grace – Loving Cup and the Toasts
all went off without a hitch to end the evening we finished with the very
popular Double Post Horn Gallop which went down a storm. By the time the dinner
was over it was our turn to eat and the Clerk had arranged a lovely meal for us
all and a couple of bottles of wine, we all chatted about the evening and how well
it went which finished it off nicely. By the time I get home it is between
11:00 and midnight so these evenings are very long affairs but when all goes
well it is worth every minute.</span></div>
<div class="Standard">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="Standard">
<span lang="EN-US"> I am
very lucky to have a very professional and loyal team of musicians behind me
who have never let me or any of my clients down.</span></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11087174769246211289noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9186718454000940221.post-39383784267070919322012-11-14T09:06:00.002-08:002012-11-14T09:06:56.574-08:00About Us<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.066667556762695px;">We provide a Fanfare Team for that special, dignified occasion, a versatile Brass Quintet for any event and to lighten the whole atmosphere, a Dixie Band. Formed in 1987 by Roy Bilham, Thames Fanfare Brass consists of a Fanfare Team using long herald trumpets and military style uniforms and banners, a Brass Quintet playing music spanning six centuries and a Dixie Band that lifts every event from the very start.</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11087174769246211289noreply@blogger.com0