Black Dyke Band's Festivities Concert could have been much better and had a much wider appeal had it contained more of the music the band is famous for and the public love.
In what appeared to be a change of policy, the Black Dyke Band used much of the concert as a showcase for its many virtuoso bandsmen who enthusiastically demonstrated their particular instrument with mainly unknown music in five celebrity items.
T
he cornet, euphonium trombone and horn solo spots did not give sufficient time for the band to present enough of the fantastic combined sound which has made it world famous for quality brass band music.
Brass band settings of Mozart's the Magic Flute Overture and Tchaikovsky's Capriccio Italian were superb and justifiably reminded me why the musicians have such a well deserved reputation and large following.
Particularly good was a new work by Paul Lovatt-Cooper using three contemporary Salvation Army songs. Using different sections of the band it began with a lively opening, followed by moments of reflection and ending with a stirring and strong finale.
The Band's director of music Nicholas Childs was on top form both as the compere and conductor eager to ensure that his musicians were appreciated.
Graham Hewitt
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