Band shows potential at Christmas carol concert

Milnrow band entertained a near capacity audience at an annual concert at St Andrews Church in Eccles on Saturday (6 December).

The large crowd enjoyed traditional Christmas carols, some with new arrangements, such as "Away in a Manger", with a Flugel solo played by Joanne Ward, and James McFayden's take on "Silent Night".

"It's the most wonderful time of the year" featured the three ladies of the Tenor Horn Section and Alex Seedhouse contributed his Euphonium solo to "Nessun Dormer", while Chris Binns, the 14 year old solo trombone player gave a lovely and assured performance of "Bring Him Home" from Les Miserables.

A spokesperson for the band said: "It was noticed by those present that this very young Championship Band, under Youthful Musical Director John Ward, are constantly improving and reaching new horizons week after week in its performances."

Old carols, new arrangements, and items especially commissioned appear on the band's brand new CD of Christmas Music, which can be obtained from Val & Jim Fitton by calling 01706 848349 at a cost of £10 or £11 inc PP.

The band will be playing carols for the Co-operatives Members Christmas Concert at Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester on Sunday (14 December) and will be at the annual Christmas Concert at Milnrow Cricket Club on Sunday 21 December.

On 17 December the band is booked to appear again at the Martin Harris Centre on Bridgeford Street at the University of Manchester.

The band is also in rehearsals for the Championship Contest at Butlins Skegness, which is taking place early next year.