Cancer Research UK Christmas concert... with a little help from Milnrow Band

Milnrow Band took centre stage at Heywood Civic Centre on Friday (12 December) as they took part in the annual Christmas concert organised by the Heywood committee for Cancer Research UK.

Conducted by Mareika Gray, those present were treated to a feast of music from the band’s extensive repertoire.

The well-known opening item 'Troika' (Prokofiev/arr Ray Farr) followed by the fast moving Toccata in D Minor' (JS Bach) heralded what was to be a programme of music suited to the festive season which included 'Away in a Manger' featuring the first soloist of the evening, Natalie Beer on Flugel Horn.

Mel Tormes` 'Christmas Song' followed, and the cornet soloist Laura Hurst gave a rendition of 'A Winter`s Tale', a Mike Batt/Tim Rice number.

The band then completed the first half with a couple of blockbuster movie items including 'Hedwigs Theme' from Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone and the theme from Star Wars.

The proceeds of an interval raffle helped swell funds, together with a promise that sponsors Barclays Bank would match the sum raised.

For the second half, the band proceeded with 'Walking in the Air' made famous by Alid Jones. 'O Holy Night', a solo item featuring Mike Morris (Solo Euphonium) then followed.

Irving Berlin’s 'White Christmas' preceded two audience participation numbers, 'Jingle Bells' and 'Schneewalzer', before the concert concluded with a potpourri of Leroy Anderson items entitled 'A Christmas Festival' after which the band was accorded a standing ovation.

Throughout the evening, the audience needed no encouragement to join in with the band, raising their voices in the joyous singing of the various carols from the sheet provided.

The Chairman of the Heywood Committee for Cancer Research UK said: “Thank you to the sponsors, the band, those present and Civic Hall staff for supporting the event.”

Milnrow Band are expected to return for the concert next year.