Steve Sutton, who lives in the Hope Valley, made his debut as Musical Director on Sunday 24th April at the band’s first official concert since Lockdown at a new venue and time – the annual Spring Concert. With the band room full to capacity, the band played excellent music and surpassed themselves with the quality produced.
There was a special tribute to past President Eileen Murphy who passed away in 2020 – it was the first occasion they had to celebrate her life and contribution to the band – and John Richardson, a band member for over 50 years, was presented with a long service award.
And Steve’s hopes for the band? “I would like to have a full band on a regular basis, to put on really good and enjoyable concerts, and to test ourselves against other bands in local and regional competitions.”
A varied and entertaining programme of high-quality music from the classics of 633 Squadron, Il Silenzio with Zeta Hillman playing a cornet solo, The Cavalier- Paul Sanders solo on euphonium, Ballade with Kim Flanagan on Soprano, The Impossible Dream featuring a cornet and Flugelhorn duet by Andy Liles and Helen Sutton through to Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (arranged by Steve Sutton). The audience was visibly moved by Deep Harmony which was played in memory of Eileen Murphy, a fitting tribute to her and her family for all the support they have given the band. The band would like to thank the supporters who have helped the band throughout the pandemic.
