Congratulations to all students involved in last weekend’s regional stage of the National Concert Band Festival (NCBF). Hosted for the first time in our Concert Hall, we welcomed 10 bands from across London and the Home Counties to perform for the two adjudicators Simon Hogg and Paul Hornsby.
This year, we entered three bands – Symphonic Wind Orchestra, Junior Symphonic Wind Orchestra and Big Band 1. We were delighted that all three received a Platinum Award for their performances, the highest possible. This means that all three bands have secured a place at the NCBF National Festival to be held at the RNCM Manchester on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 April 2025.
Our Symphonic Wind Orchestra was up first and, following last year’s Platinum success under the baton of Mrs Regan, the pressure was on to keep up the high standard! Mr Todd, Head of Brass, says, “The level of our Symphonic Wind Orchestra has never been in doubt. Having already done two concerts during the preceding few days they were fully up to speed and felt confident heading into Sunday’s performance.
“Starting with a staple of the concert band repertoire the Concert Prelude by Philip Sparke, the band showed from the outset how spectacular they can sound in this fanfare like opener. Next up was a superb example of the film music of Hans Zimmer Hummel gets the Rockets from the film The Rock. A very atmospheric opening to a piece that really showcased the excellent percussion section of students Jasper, Ellis, Leo and Kaya. Notable for his special mention from the adjudicators was Fourth Year Jowan who created a suitably ominous atmosphere in his trumpet solo. Finally, we performed a particularly challenging medley of Stevie Wonder hits to round off a hugely exciting performance.”
Next was Big Band 1; Mr Pettitt, Head of Jazz, Rock and Pop, says, “This was Big Band 1’s first time in the NCBF so there was a little tension in the air! The band soon relaxed though and by a couple of minutes had found their swagger. With a range of repertoire from classic Swing era through fusion of the latter 20th Century and incorporating a contemporary piece along the way, the band demonstrated their versatility and, with stand-out solos from Jasper, Benjy, Ellis and Ben, it was clear they were going to score highly.”
Lastly, our Junior Symphonic Wind Orchestra took to the stage, with 42 musicians from the Junior to Fourth Years. They played three pieces: Trumpets in Motion, Havana and some highlights from Aladdin. Mrs Regan, Director of Music, was conducting, and says, “JSWO gave a very neat and tidy performance, with great attention to detail and superb dynamics. Adjudicators commented on the fabulous trumpet playing, especially from Third Year Lochie who had the solo in Aladdin.”
Well done to all involved.
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