Milnrow Band - All England Masters International Brass Band Champions

Milnrow Band - The All England Masters International Brass Band Champions

Milnrow Baand have been crowned champions of the All England Masters International Brass Band Champion, picking up the three trophies, The Championship Trophy, The Howard Memorial Trophy (best cornet – Iain Culross) and the Stanley Boddington Memoriam Trophy (conductor of winning Band-Mark Bentham).

The contest took place at the Light House Theatre in Kettering on Sunday (28 May) and  
Milnrow were up against formidable opposition from a selection of top contesting UK bands and Brass Band Willebroek from Europe.

Drawn to play at number 12 of 14 bands, it was late afternoon when Milnrow band took to the stage to play the prepared set test piece, Peter Graham's 'The Torchbearer' under the baton of Musical Director Mark Bentham.

Commissioned as the test piece for the National Championships of Great Britain 2009, 'Torchbearer' also commemorated the 20th anniversary of the death of the late great Eric Ball, including references to his music throughout.

It was apparent from the outset that the players were on form and ready for the challenge with a confident start, secure opening gambit and a lovely horn solo.

A fine tempo and good clean playing allowed time for lots of detail and effects to be heard, followed by a well-played Euphonium interlude.

The bass section provided a firm foundation allowing the music to flow well with nice solos from flugel and euphonium, and controlled playing provided by the principal cornet ensured a good balance with restrained playing by the full percussion section, including some nice zylophone playing. 

There was plenty of drama and excitement in this fine performance and completed the piece with a dynamic build to a controlled and 'big sound' finish.

Ken Watts, Band President, said: "Alongside the Grand Shield win in 2013, this latest success further enhances Milnrow's credentials as a top-class brass band, consistently vying with the best.

"Currently ranked 33rd in the world, Milnrow band are proud to be in fourth position in the North West in company with Faireys, Leyland and Fodens bands."

Milnrow will represent the North West Area in The Brass Band Championships of Great Britain at the Albert Hall London in October, and the sizeable prize money from this win will help towards the cost of the bands' appearance .

Mr Watts added: "After being declared winners, there were numerous photo calls on stage for the winning band and the excitement was almost overwhelming. Indeed the whole experience was something to be savoured and very emotional... after which the band retired to the bar for well-earned celebrations, later carried on in Milnrow Workingmen's Club upon return to Milnrow."