Sunday saw the band making its annual appearance at the Otterbourne Village Fete, an event which is enjoyed by band members young and old. The threatened rain fortuitously held off until we had finished playing and we were able to entertain visitors to the show with a varied selection of music from the Second Waltz of Shostakovich’s Jazz Suite to the sublime delights of Frozen.

The day started in its traditional way with a parade of home made jalopies (including a Dalek made entirely of lego!) driving through the village to the fete ground. Here, they were greeted in front of a large and enthusiastic audience by the band who played a couple of rousing marches by way of welcome.

Solo items included Stardust played by guest trombonist Sue, and An Untold Story performed by Berni on tenor horn. Both solos featured playing of the highest quality and we are fortunate that the band has such talented players.

Particular thanks have to go to euphonium player Will Wilkins, who stepped in at short notice to conduct the band for most of the first half. Melvin White, our musical director, was delayed on the M3 but managed to join us in time for the ice creams and cake during the break!

Thank you to our deps: Meg, Billy, Paddy, Mark, Ben, Sue and our regular guest Ken on bass trombone.

Our thanks are also sent to the organisers for another wonderful fete and we look forward to returning next year.

Article by Ian Austin