So, another year has come and gone so quickly!
The Christmas season reached its conclusion for Phoenix Brass with our traditional appearance at the Tesco Store in Tidworth where the band entertained the last-minute shoppers. Aside from supermarket performances, the band performed at the Lambourn Catholic Church, the Gateway Club in Woodborough, the 25th Anniversary of the Annual Burbage Christmas Tree Sale, played carols for villagers and band supporters in Froxfield and entertained the residents of a Care Home near Cirencester. We also played at a number of smaller events in the area, including carolling at The Roebuck Pub in Marlborough.
We would like to take time for thanking those who have made 2019 special. The players from Main Band who have turned up in all weathers and not only made music but also a spirit of camaraderie through good and bad. Those members from the Training Band who have put time and effort in learning a new instrument and skill. The families and partners who have put up with the time commitments and have supported and acted as photographers, chauffeurs and “roadies”.
All those involved in Training Band, the hard work of all particularly those who conduct, run and tutor the Training Band members.
Our Musical Director, David Watson, who is completely dedicated to brass banding, and shows determined commitment, energy and inspires all players to improve their musical playing ability.
Those who have provided the Band with fabulous playing opportunities. We performed more than 30 times throughout the year, with some engagements at new locations.
Finally thank you to our audiences. Music is nothing if it is not heard . Our audiences have made our music making worthwhile and, as a self-financing and supporting band, your financial contributions means the Band can continue to play and teach the next generation the joys and traditions of brass band music.
As always, the Band is looking for new members. The philosophy of the Band is ‘enjoyment through music’ and new players, whether young or old, beginners or those wishing to resume a lapsed interest are always welcome. We are a community band and do not enter competitions. We perform frequently at various local events big and small. We also put on our own concerts from time to time. Players of all ages and abilities are welcome and we play a wide variety of music. If you are interested in playing with us but do not own your own instrument, you are welcome to borrow from the band’s stock of instruments.
The Band rehearses every Tuesday and Thursday at Froxfield War Memorial Hall from 7:30pm to 9.30pm. We have a Training Band for completely new players, or previous players who wish to resume their musical skills, that meets at the Froxfield War Memorial Hall on Saturday mornings. If you are interested in joining or would like more information, please visit our Website or feel free to drop in to see us during one of our rehearsals.
Finally, if you are interested in booking Phoenix Brass during 2020, please do get in touch using the details on our Contact Page on the Band Website or via our Facebook Page. We recommend contacting us as soon as possible, as our calendar can get booked up quite quickly.
From Phoenix Brass Band, we wish you a very Happy Christmas and a Prosperous and Healthy New Year. We hope to see you in 2020!
Richard Fradgley
Secretary, Phoenix Brass Band