1st at last!
The band are delighted to have secured 1st place at Tameside on Sunday 28th March with185 points - 2 points ahead of York RI in 2nd place
'The Third Section saw victory go to Thornton Cleveleys conducted by Steve Simpson. They produced a fine performance of ‘Oceans’ to take the title ahead of Harrogate bound York Railway Institute who made the trip down from the North of England, with another Harrogate bound band, Farnworth & Walkden in third'
Many thanks to Pauline, Beth, Dave, Roger, Andy and Mark it was much appreciated by us all!
New Members
The band is delighted to have two members - Jeremy (Sop) and Gemma(2nd Baritone) who have recently moved to the area from Wales. You are both very welcome additions.
Sad News
The band were very saddened recently to hear that Mr Rod Lewis had passed away. Rod was the conductor of the junior band and he spent a great deal of time, effort and enthusiasm into developing our younger musicians. Rod was well know by the local banding organisations and will be sadly missed by all.
Resignation of long standing member.
The band are sorry to announce that Howard Midgeley, band secretary and trombone player has decided to resign from the committee and his playing position. Howard's connection with the band goes back over 40 years, during which he has dedicated so much of his own time to band activities. Chairman Andrew Swann thanked Howard on behalf of the band and committee for everything he 'd done and achieved over the years and assured him that he would always be welcomed back.
Fleetwood Contest 5th October 2009 (02/10/09)
This Sunday the band are heading all the way to sunny Fleetwood for the annual Marine hall contest. Playing Goff Richards 'Hollywood' the band hope for a good result in the 3rd section. Good luck Steve and all.
New Principal Cornet (01/10/2009)
Paul Cooper (previously the bands Soprano player) has taken over the reins as principal cornet following the departure of Steve Tarry. Ex Army band master Paul has a wealth of playing and conducting experience and will be an asset to the band in his new position.
UPDATE- COMINGS AND GOINGS (30/09/09)
In August the band had to bid a fond and reluctant farewell to two players:
Principal Cornet Steve Tarry- Steve has moved to a new job in Dubai.
Phil Webb 2nd Cornet - Phil has decided the time has come to retire after a good 21 years (or so) . Both players will be really missed but we wish them all the best in their different ventures.
Welcome to Kathy Redman who joins on 2nd cornet, Kathy has played locally with both Blackpool Brass and Pilling and Fiona McKenzie who joins us on 3rd cornet. Fiona becomes the youngest band member who due to her excellent progress in the junior band has been promoted to the senior band. Well done Fiona its great to have you and Cathy in the band keeping the back row in check.
Feb 8th - Preston Contest 3rd Section.
Despite a ridiculously early Sunday morning start for many in the band it seemed that everyone had woken up enough to provide a great performance when the time came at Preston today. Playing 2nd out of 16 the band secured the excellent result of 4th place. Many thanks again to the five players (you know who you are) who also assisted us today. An extra congratulations goes to Tony Armitstead who playing principal cornet for us won the section soloist prize. Congratulations to all, and as always a mighty big thanks to Steve Simpson for his continued hard work to progress the band at every opportunity. Oh and quote of the day stated after the result by a member of the audience...' I bet many bands are very relieved that Thornton are not going to the areas'!
Oct 12th 2008 - Fleetwood Contest
Drawn 9th of 9 bands and playing Goff Richards 'Oceans' the band achieved 2nd place in the 3rd section at Fleetwood today. After a few years out of the contest scene this is an excellent achievement. It reflects the hard work put in by all and especially the consistent commitment, direction and encouragement from Steve Simpson (MD). In addition to the odd post result hangover the band also walked away with a trophy and a cheque for £200. Congratulations to all!
Sept 10th
Grand Charity event in Memory of Rachel Holland.
Following the loss of his Sister, Rachel (a fine Euphonium player with North Fylde Band) earlier this year, Ian Holland (E flat Bass) has arranged a charity event to raise money for the Heart Unit at Blackpool Victoria Hospital. a charity for which Rachel donated and raised money.
It starts at 7pm will be compared by the "Local Celebrity" Ryan Gleeson, and there will be excellent entertainment from the one and only DEADBEATS. There will also be a raffle with some amazing prizes. Tickets are £5.00 but you will be able to pay on the door, with all monies going to the charity.
So put a note in your diaries, and remember to bring LOADSA MONEY!!!
August 31st 2008
Out goings, In comings and Graduations
A few little updates to report:
The band has had to bid farewell to two members recently:
Ted Sykes (2nd Euph) and Peter Hull (Bass Trom)
After many years commitment Ted has now hung up his Euph to spend more time with his family and Peter has moved to Longridge band on Bass Trom.
Although a sad loss to the band we wish them both all the best in whatever they do.
Welcome to Barclay Jones on B Flat Bass
Congratulations to Nicola Swann (Solo Horn) who has recently graduated from Lancaster University destined for a future of teaching little people... we wish you lots of luck in your career Nic.
Fund raising Concert Singleton Church
Many thanks to all those who supported Martins Kilimanjaro fund raising concert in aid of Macmillan Cancer support. A grand total of £400 was raised and a great evening had by all.
March 16th 2008 - 1st Prize at South Cumbria Music Festival
Congratulations to Steve and the band on their win at Ulverston on Sunday. Entering the 4th section and unregistered bands competion and playing a march (The Contestor), hymn tune, a general piece (A Salford Sinfonietta) the band beat 3 others to take first prize of a shield and £150 prize money.
Full Results
1st - Thornton Cleveleys
2nd- Burneside
3rd- Kirby Lonsdale
4th -Dalton Band
Adjudicator - Chris Wormald
A good day was had by all - evidence of which can be found in the photo album.
New Members for 2008
The band is delighted to welcome 4 new members to the band:-
Stuart Beaver - Solo cornet
Keith Grills- 3rd Cornet
Adam Taylor - 2nd Baritone
Peter Hull- Bass Trombone
Hope you all enjoy being in the band.
Xmas Concert 16th December
The bands final concert of 2007 ended with recognition for long service and a debut.
Mr Andrew Swann, solo cornet and long suffering chairman received a surprise speech and presentation from his daughter and solo horn player Nicola for 40 years membership in the band. Andrew was thanked and commended on all aspects of his commitment and dedication to the band, his willingness to help all band members new and old, and other local bands were also recognised. Congratulations Andy, you're a true asset to the band!!
And from the old timers to the newcomers the concert saw the debut of the newly formed junior band. Under the musical direction of Mr Rod Lewis the juniors entertained the audience during the interval with a selection of festive tunes. We look forward to seeing more of them in 2008. (Pics in Photo Album)
Congratulations and Thanks.
The band are delighted to congratulate principal cornet player Mr Steve Tarry on his appointment to position of Musical Director of the Longridge Band. Thanks to Steve for all his time, hard work and effort put into the band over the past 2 years and we all wish him every success in his new position.
Concert 24th November Salvation Army Citadel
Following a fair few weeks preparation and hard work it was all proved to be worth the effort and high blood pressure with a great concert last night at the Salvation Army Citadel. With a near full house the band were joined by the excellent Shakespeare school choir who impressed and entertained all with their choice of songs and fab voices. The band provided a selection of tunes old and new that were all greatly received. The quality of playing demonstrated the development of the band since the appointment of Steve Simpson as Musical Director earlier this year. The bands appreciation for Steve's commitment was expressed before the concert by Mr Howard Midgeley , band secretary. This was a charity concert on behalf of the Rotary Club of Blackpool of which Steve is President this year. Proceeds will be going to local charities including Brian House Hospice. In addition to ticket sales a collection during the concert made the grand sum of £750. A few snaps from the concert now in the Photos page.
OCTOBER 2007 - A Much Needed Facelift
Well, after many years of everyone agreeing the bandroom needed redecorating we have finally pulled our fingers out and got cracking. Under the professional design / decorating supervision of Andrew 'Lawrence Llwellyn' Swann, sanding, filling and painting is well underway and the work of art is hoped to be finished in the very near future. Check out more of the pics of the work in action in the Photo Album.
27th August 2007 - Sad News
We are very sorry to announce that Mrs Gladys Swann the bands most longstanding member passed away peacefully in hospital on Sunday, August 12, 2007. Gladys aged, 74 was a member of the band for over thirty years. She was part of 3 generations of her family currently playing in the band and she was still playing 2nd baritone up until becoming ill just a few weeks ago. Always the first to arrive for practice, and the first to welcome all new members, Gladys was never anything other than a kind, caring lady with a great sense of humour. She will be greatly missed by all members of the band and so many others associated with her through the banding world. The bands thoughts are with her family at this time.
Pictured below is Gladys, her son Andrew and grand daughter Nicola taken in April 2007.
7th May 2007 - Update on Current Vacancies
The band is still on the look out for a B flat Bass, Bass Trombone, Solo and Back Row Cornets. However as usual all other players welcome to come along Mon and Thurs 19:30 - 21:30. (See Location Page for more details)
30th April 2007 - Hot Pot Supper
Well better late than never......10 weeks after Steve arrived as conductor the band had a wee gathering tonight to officially welcome him to the position. -Photies in the gallery for all to view.
April 07 - New arrivals
Congratulations to Colin Rudge on 1st Horn who has become a Grandad.......... An unnamed person has paid me 50p to say ' Surely Colin that can't be possible you don't look old enough' Congratulations, Thanks and Goodbye.
The band are delighted to congratulate principal cornet player Mr Steve Tarry on his appointment to position of Musical Director of the Longridge Band. Thanks to Steve for all his time, hard work and effort put into the band over the past 2 years and we all wish him every success in his new position.
Concert 24th November Salvation Army Citadel
Following a fair few weeks preparation and hard work it was all proved to be worth the effort and high blood pressure with a great concert last night at the Salvation Army Citadel. With a near full house the band were joined by the excellent Shakespeare school choir who impressed and entertained all with their choice of songs and fab voices. The band provided a selection of tunes old and new that were all greatly received. The quality of playing demonstrated the development of the band since the appointment of Steve Simpson as Musical Director earlier this year. The bands appreciation for Steve's commitment was expressed before the concert by Mr Howard Midgeley , band secretary. This was a charity concert on behalf of the Rotary Club of Blackpool of which Steve is President this year. Proceeds will be going to local charities including Brian House Hospice. In addition to ticket sales a collection during the concert made the grand sum of £750. A few snaps from the concert now in the Photos page.
OCTOBER 2007 - A Much Needed Facelift
Well, after many years of everyone agreeing the bandroom needed redecorating we have finally pulled our fingers out and got cracking. Under the professional design / decorating supervision of Andrew 'Lawrence Llwellyn' Swann, sanding, filling and painting is well underway and the work of art is hoped to be finished in the very near future. Check out more of the pics of the work in action in the Photo Album.
27th August 2007 - Sad News
We are very sorry to announce that Mrs Gladys Swann the bands most longstanding member passed away peacefully in hospital on Sunday, August 12, 2007. Gladys aged, 74 was a member of the band for over thirty years. She was part of 3 generations of her family currently playing in the band and she was still playing 2nd baritone up until becoming ill just a few weeks ago. Always the first to arrive for practice, and the first to welcome all new members, Gladys was never anything other than a kind, caring lady with a great sense of humour. She will be greatly missed by all members of the band and so many others associated with her through the banding world. The bands thoughts are with her family at this time.
Pictured below is Gladys, her son Andrew and grand daughter Nicola taken in April 2007.
7th May 2007 - Update on Current Vacancies
The band is still on the look out for a B flat Bass, Bass Trombone, Solo and Back Row Cornets. However as usual all other players welcome to come along Mon and Thurs 19:30 - 21:30. (See Location Page for more details)
30th April 2007 - Hot Pot Supper
Well better late than never......10 weeks after Steve arrived as conductor the band had a wee gathering tonight to officially welcome him to the position. -Photies in the gallery for all to view.
April 07 - New arrivals
Congratulations to Colin Rudge on 1st Horn who has become a Grandad.......... An unnamed person has paid me 50p to say ' Surely Colin that can't be possible you don't look old enough'
March 2007
19/03/07
Vacancies
Just a reminder- if you are a player looking for a band then how about popping along to one of our rehearsals (Mon & Thurs 7:30 - 21:30). We are still looking for a Bass trombone, Cornets front and back and a B flat bass. All other players also welcomed. Come on down and give us a try!!!!!
18/03/07
Mothers Day Concert Thornton Little Theatre
Tonight's concert saw a fair few new faces starting with Mr Steve Simpson, the bands new conductor leading the band. Don't know what's been happening in the bass line but they have doubled in numbers with new members Derek and Alan on E flat. The front row have been joined by Rod and we also welcome back Colin O'Sullivan on 2nd Trombone (More info to follow on all newcomers very soon on the 'Meet the Band' page). With renewed enthusiasm thanks to Steve's direction we all look forward to bringing the audience bigger and better concerts every time. Usual thanks to our guest players and to our ever receptive audience.
By the way.... Fancy hearing a specific piece of music at one of our future concerts then drop us an email and we'll see what we can do. Also don't forget we'd love to hear any feedback about the concert via also our email thorntonband@yahoo.co.uk
Feb 2007
28/02/07 - NEW MUSICAL DIRECTOR
We are delighted to announce that the position of Musical Director has been filled by Mr Steve Simpson. The band are very pleased to welcome Steve into the position and are really looking forward to working with him. His first concert leading the band will be 18th March 2007 at Thornton Little Theatre.
25/02/07 Concert Thornton Little Theatre
Tonight's concert was again well received by the audience. With music varying from traditional marches, Disney theme tunes, and a bit of Gilbert and Sullivan there was something to suit everyone's taste. Solos came from Nicola Swann - Solo Horn (On my Own from Les Miserables) and Steve Tarry - Principal Cornet (Sugar Blues) with both players giving a fab performance. As usual, thanks from the band to all our guest players this evening both new and old. The next (18th March) and future concerts will see a new musical director at the helm - keep your eye on the website as more info to come very soon.
15/02/07 -Calling all Bandies!
Are you looking to rejoin a band? Perhaps new to the area or not played for a while? Then come on down to one of our rehearsals. We are looking for players in all sections except horns at the mo, but if a horn is what you play then come down anyway and we'll squeeze you in. A friendly welcome extended to all new players and there is no age limit! If you want to double check if a rehearsal is on just phone, email or text. Details on ' Contact Us' Page.
January 2007
28/01/07 First Concert of 2007
The band played to a receptive audience on Sunday at Thornton Little Theatre. An eclectic selection of music made up the concert including a new work from the pen of our very own Paul Cooper (Soprano) 'Der Sonder March', an energetic piece that makes the front row work very hard (does them good though). Speaking of hard work , the soloists Steve Tarry ('Take me home again Kathleen - Principal Cornet'), Nicola Swann ('Over the Rainbow- Solo Horn') and not forgetting a change from the usual with Ian Holland's E flat bass rendition of The Bombastic Bombardon were all splendidly played. We also mustn't forget to mention Andrew Swann and Colin Pinington who joined Steve Tarry in the fun trio Three Jolly Sailormen'. Thanks again to the guest players who helped make the concert its usual success.
Also many thanks to all the audience for their support and appreciation and we look forward to seeing you again on 25th February at the Little Theatre for our next concert.
Were you in the audience??
If you were please drop us a line at the band email thorntonband@yahoo.co.uk and give us your feedback about the concert.
27/01/07 - Band Website is launched
At last the band website is re-launched with a new style reflecting the bands colours and an easy to navigate format. It is the aim of the site to help keep band followers, members and potential newcomers up to date with all that's happening with the band. The site guest book helps you leave messages and share your feedback about the band and its performances ...perhaps you have suggestions of pieces you'd like to hear at future concerts, then here is your opportunity to let us know.