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Porthywaen in the News
Successful Festival for Porthywaen Silver Band
Category: Press Release
Months of planning, hours of practice and a 5am start, all paid off for Porthywaen Silver Band last week, when they took second place in the Wychavon Festival of Brass.
Getting up at 5am on a Sunday may not be everyone's idea of fun, but for the members of Porthywaen Silver Band it usually marks the beginning of a busy day, competing in a music contest, in this case the Wychavon Festival of Brass in Pershore. The real work had begun many weeks ago at the Band Hall in Porthywaen, where new Musical Director Mark Parry had embarked on a difficult program including traditional pieces mixed with modern compositions.
The band were third on stage and despite the illness of principle percussionist Adrian Jones, which meant he was unable to attend the early morning practice, were in high spirits as they arrived at the venue, with only a few moments to steal themselves before taking to the stage for their 20 minute set.
The band's supporters reported enjoying the concert immensely, as well as the great sound of the purpose-built theatre. Principal Cornet Carol Stokes, performed ‘Share My Yoke', a beautiful Salvation Army solo by Joy Webb, which was quickly followed by the show-stopping ‘Cornets-a-Go-Go' by Derek Broadbent. The other bands playing in the contest included Strata Brass and east London Brass were also exceptionally good, playing Stardust and highlights from the film Chicken Run.
At the end of the festival, Porthywaen were placed second, just behind Strata Brass, an excellent result against such strong competition, and there were more celebrations when soloist Carol Stokes was warded the prize for best soloist in the section.