Senior Cup 2007          

The Spring Festival is held in Blackpool, and comprises three separate competitions, of which the Senior Cup is the middle section. Promotion and relegation is dependant on the contest result on the day - the top and bottom four bands from each section of twenty are promoted and relegated. The only exception to this is the Grand Shield, where the top two bands only are promoted up to the British Open, held in September. Last year, in their quest to be promoted back into the Grand Shield, the Band gained 6th place. This year the Band was hoping, to improve on this result. The test piece - by Philip Sparke - was 'Dances and Alleluias', a piece that was both enjoyable, but not easy, to play, as well as being a piece that was a pleasure to listen to. The Band did have both good and bad news on the health front in the build up to this contest. BBb Bass player Pete Arden was admitted to hospital in the days leading up to the contest. Despite frantic searching, no replacement could be found, so the decision was made just to compete with three on the Bass section - and a sterling job they did. The good news was that Solo Trombonist Mark Unsworth escaped with just cuts and bruises after he was knocked off his bike, news confirmed after spending Friday morning in the local casualty hospital for x-rays.  

The weekend started at Popple Street about 4pm, when our coach arrived, driven by our new Band Driver - Peter Wilson. Pete finished working recently as a Police Officer, and became the Band's first and so far only employee of our sponsoring company, the East Yorkshire Motor Services Group. This was to be his first trip, and probably his hardest - imagine having the critical eyes of your 'friends' sitting behind you, probably the biggest group of back seat drivers ever!

    Pete, and his good friend Tom Tom!

Obviously the Band used the Marie Celeste system of coach loading - it's either that or a new version of 'Where's Wally!' 

And off we went - gingerly at first as Popple Street was crammed with cars, HGV's, two cats, and a photographer.

Even after writing the times down on his hand, James only just caught the bus - he'd washed the part with the departure time on.

After picking some more people up at Hessle, we motored off to Ackworth, near Pontefract. This was the venue for our Friday evening rehearsal.

Then it was back onto the coach to continue our journey to Blackpool. 

Hopefully this picture was taken before we left Ackworth, either that or the coach has one hell of a cruise control. 

Vicki, as shot by Shaun before tiredness set in.

Neil and Darlos thought that sitting in the 'Priority Club' seats, meant waitress service. They soon got disappointed. 

Overdressed, or rushed for the bus after work?

It's no good hiding Erin, when Mark searches for victims for the 'fiddle', I mean entrants into the competition, no hiding place is good enough.

Only a pound a go, you won't get that value anywhere else on this bus, and you actually have a chance of winning.

Even Dick Turpin didn't get on the coach to rob his victims.

The rehearsal obviously took a lot out of the 'younger' members of the Band.

One of many photo's taken of Mark by the Shed - it has to be said that many were better than this one, but not many were worse.

Crisps and a fizzy drink at the ready, James was well prepared for his trip to Blackpool.

As with the last few years, we stayed at The Hollies, and once again were made to feel very welcome by the staff, especially Barry the Barman. But before a night cap, supper was required.

What was going on out of shot - I can't remember. Sorry.

When in Rome etc, so we settled for fish and chips. But as it was blowing a gale, we decided to go posh and have a plate, instead of paper. Put the camera down Shaun, and order the food.

Doesn't tomato ketchup count as one of the five to make this a healthy meal?

Mind your fingers when you chomp into that small sandwich Erin.

 This was a very friendly chippy, they even hung a picture of Kathy on to the wall.

Blimey, if that's what happens when you drink coke, I'll stick to the beer.

After an early breakfast - seven o'clock on a Saturday morning felt like the middle of the night - we headed to St Stephens On The Cliff Church, for a rehearsal in the church hall. Whilst rehearsing we found out that we had drawn to play number 7 out of 18, (It should have been 20 bands, but 2 bands had withdrawn from the contest) which meant playing around noon. 

Alison with her lucky mascot.

You'll need a bigger trumpet than that Neil.

Typical, the morning of a big contest, and the blokes decide to play with their mecanno.

That's it done - oh no, Steve's got a piece left over.

 Happy looking bunch aren't they.

So that's agreed then, you go oom, and I'll go pah!

Pete thought he'd be safe as he was driving, not a chance.

John in the first of his many 'grinning over the shoulder' shots.

A last sip from the hipflask.

 It's either the wrong socks, or a new Irish jig.

With retirement looming, Tony considers his options.

Once Jim had finished rehearsing, it was back to the hotel, coffee, and then a leisurely walk around to the Wintergardens, the venue for the contest.

As you look further down the page, you'll see that Gareth has the same pose no matter what he drinks. Here, it is coffee at the hotel.

Don't they scrub up well.

A rare shot of percussionists actually carrying their kit. Or in Shaun's case (no pun intended) dragging it. He got some strange looks as we walked round, as it looked like he was dragging a coffin around the streets.

One of the down sides to contesting is the amount of time spent hanging around. Part of our cornet section - Andrea, Simon, Dixon, and Stewart.

Battle of the snappers.

Steve looks at the moths that have just appeared from somewhere.

Whatever happened to the left, it wasn't interesting enough for Erin. The previous pictures, and the following few were taken in the waiting area. That's the waiting area, prior to going into the main waiting room. 

To cut out the 'yellow' from the surroundings, here is a reflection of years gone past - a black and white photograph. If Shaun swapped his modern hair products for brylcream, no one would ever know that this was a 1967 or 2007 photograph.

On one of these pictures - the strain shows as Tony breathes in for the camera. You decide which one?

Steve and Alice keep their relatives abroad up to date with the contest so far.

Still in the 'Yellow' room, David and Kirsty pose for the camera, blissfully unaware of the grinning fool on David's shoulder. 

Eventually, we moved into the waiting room proper, and took the opportunity to update some of our section photographs. Here the Bass section grin, grimace, and glare at the camera. Tim Atkinson (BBb Bass), Gareth Hughes (EEb Bass), and David Fox (Solo EEb Bass).

As well as the Spring Festival, there were several other events going on in the Blackpool area - Football play-off semi-final, Radio 1 live concert, and the Blackpool Gay Pride weekend. It was bearing this in mind that Neil asked for a re-take, so that he could adjust his facial expression. This was Neil's first contest on Solo Euphonium with the Band, and he was joined on stage by borrowed player Myron Thomas from the Wakefield Metropolitan Brass Band. 

The Percussion 'Boys', James Cliff, Shaun Davey, and James Hendry.

Once the Band had changed into their stage uniform, we moved from the waiting area, to the signing on and pre-performance waiting area.

All the players have to present their personal registration card, which must match the Band list provided by the Brass Band Registry. This is done to prevent players performing for several bands, or to prevent bands using 'ringers'. Here, Vicki Kennedy has her card scrutinised, watched by Alison Grantham as Band representative, whilst Alistair Shipman waits for his turn.

Alistair waits for the okay to play.

The waiting area - whilst here, it is possible to hear the performance of the previously drawn band.

During the last waiting period, the players amuse themselves in different ways. Here, John Belton (Soprano Cornet - our second of two allowed borrowed players, John also plays for the Wakefield Metropolitan Brass Band) listens to some comedy on his iPod, Andrea looks at the latest fashions in band uniforms, whilst Julia polishes her mute.

The Brass Band website 4barsrest, did a live commentary on the contest. They wrote about our performance: -

East Yorkshire Motor Services, J. Davies, 7 

Lots of shape and well controlled dynamics to open. It all fits well and good trombones. Careful not to overdo it though. Euph is in control, and all soloists are musical with a good ensemble sound. Well done Flugel - this is turning into a good show. The MD has done his homework - lots of contrast evident. It gets a little edgy in some solo lines, but generally flows to a well constructed end.

Overall: One that had both the Dances and Alleluias.

After changing, and returning our instruments to the hotel, it was time for a little light refreshment, something to eat, and chance to have a listen to some of our opposition. Events like these, also give the Band chance to catch up with friends from around the country.

'What is that?', asked Jez. It's orange juice. Perhaps Jez should try some, apparently it has magic powers that allow you to stay up past 7pm. 

 Blackpool being by the beach, there are plenty of old beach bums around.

The best (and only) set of legs on view today!

Shaun was taken out for a little shopping.

Meanwhile back in the bar, Tony was telling the story about the wide mouthed clam, Dave smiles politely, whilst Mark can't quite hide the fact that he'd heard it before........several times!

A rare shot of Jez ..................................................awake.

Myron manages a quick one before dashing off back to Leeds.

 A pint and a half, Simon is easily satisfied.

Neil, why didn't she sign for us?

Jez, Erin, and Gareth, all very smart - and still upright too.

So that's where the half went, you old smoothie.

Alison with her photo fit man, and the search party to find him.

Alison and two Clooney clones. Close your eyes and they could be. 

If you see these two...........................................run.

Sheds one and two.

Sitting in front of the palm trees, Erin realised why they call the place the Winter Gardens. 

See, it's that relaxed pose again.

Margo, Steve, and Dixon go continental.

Blimey, these band contests are pretty good.

Shaun casts a critical eye over the pictures on Mark's camera, well he did once he found the on/off switch.

 It's him again.

The 'younger' members of the Band, sitting outside with a bottle of pop and a bag of crisps.

Not sure about those red earrings Vicki.

 The 'management'.

Shaun dreams about replacing Eric Estrada on 'CHiPs'.

The Percussion section join together to hear the results.

And the view from the other side, posed and un-posed. Or in James's case, asleep and awake. 

All smiles until Alison checked Neil against the photofit.

Quick, neck it, we're going now. 

Following the conclusion of all three contests, the results were all announced at the same prize ceremony. The Band came fifth, and generally we were all a little disappointed with our performance, but thought that the position, and comments probably reflected that. The Adjudicators remarks are included below.

David Read

Good - but not without flaws. The music flows well & notes are well measured.

70 EEb Bass a little frantic but competent, all parts are heard to good effect. Euphonium Cadenza - well shaped - with good contrast.

123 Trom plays the tune with a good style & copied to good effect by Euphonium & Soprano.

147 Lovely Flugel sound. Good sounds pervade from 153 and all groupings are accurate and fit into the picture.

Vivace - Good Tempo (wise), all parts are heard clearly.

243 A little uncomfortable.

Well done I enjoyed it

420 Baritone well shaped despite one or two uncertainties & we get some mispitched notes.

440 Well played by Solo Cornet & all well restrained - and so well balanced.

A performance of merit - all well organised and directed, but with some lapses as you will be aware of.  

Stephen Mead

Not quite cohesive to start - some slightly uncomfortable moments in ensemble and tuning.

42 Nice sounds - and it builds well.

51 Fine brass sounds - and so rhythmic too. Sounds well

64 - 67 Super ensemble, confident playing - ff's have a real passion.

114 Euphonium should start in tempo? - but does well here, just loses a little sonority at softer dynamics. Trombone solo is very nice - sound is vibrant and singing. Little wobbles in the duet, Euphonium does well again. Solo Cornet excellent before Animando. Flugel is artistic.

158 Tight ensemble -continues into 169 Vivace.

EEb Bass notes before 219 not quite in tune. Running along nicely now - some exciting moments and just the odd 'wild' moment - but I admire and appreciate the spirit shown by all - a real commitment. Good tempo by the Musical Director.

420 Baritone does okay, only the odd insecurity - several split entries follow! A pity - it just takes the shine off what has been a very successful middle of the piece. Be careful going into 440. Nice solo cornet - understated, I love the spirit of this - genuine and sincere. Bravo.

456 Super full band sounds now - really joyous - and powerful!

Thanks for this, most enjoyable performance.   

Once the results were complete the Band wandered back to the hotel for the official remark reading ceremony (and some more light refreshment).

 Stewart practices his gurning, whilst others listen intently to another one of Dixon's jokes.

Complete this well known saying or phrase - Sit down Simon before you........

Like two rabbits caught in the headlights.

Erin and Gareth enjoy the opportunity to sit and chill, even though some photographer keeps bothering them

At last year's awards night, Jez was presented with a special early to bed award. He obviously wants to retain his title, as this photograph was taken at 7.25pm. And that was sometime after he was last seen. Should have tried more lemonade in your shandy!!

Before and after, the photograph was doctored to show Shaun in a better pose.

At eight o'clock precisely - give or take three quarters of an hour, the Band (minus Jez) appeared in the hotel foyer, ready for a walk around Blackpool and something to eat. What the picture doesn't reveal is, what is happening behind Steve Rudhall?

I'm Spartacus.

The Hatfield Band in the hotel next door, were staying in and having a fancy dress party. The big Kermit is Andrew Kennedy, now the Band's 2nd Euphonium player.

Surprisingly, not having booked, we had to wait for a table to become available. We only asked for a table for 30!

  Snapper Shaun caught in the act.

Is it possible that we have passed Kirsty's bedtime?

Any pose they can do, we can do better.

Simon and his son James (James is the one with hair).

Who is holding who upright?

 Tony, please point to the oldest person in the picture.

Get your coat son, you've pulled.

Don't be confused, it may look like a Bier Keller sing song, but it was a Chinese restaurant.

Soup in a bottle - that's novel.

Nice hair Simon!

There followed some discussion regarding the vintage of the Tsingtau - ordered on Steve's recommendation. He obviously likes it, but Stewart and Alice don't look convinced.

Simon without his toupee.

And all of a sudden Simon found Mark irresistible.

And he's not trying to whisper in his ear either.

Boys will be boys - and I use the term boys loosely, very very loosely!

Nice to see one gentleman amongst us.

Alison gives Kirsty lessons in the withering school ma'am look.

Three drummers, each with a set of chopsticks. What happens next?

Yes, tap tap tap. Note the stylish green band on James' wrist - gives you entry into the band contest, the one that finished hours ago!

Not much left there then.

And on the annexe table, it's siesta time for Tim.

And fresh from an extended siesta, Jez manages to join us.

Blackpool, already famed for its stag and hen nights, now branches out to include shed nights.

Glass empty, bowl empty, I may as well smile for the camera.

And the start of nightmare time for Neil. Definitely a dodgy bag of crisps!

Definitely not feeling too happy then.

That's a new one, matching face and shirt, and look at the sympathetic look on John's face!

And then he needed a lift back.

Careful boys, it is the Blackpool Mardi Gras weekend.

Not as romantic as a first look hints at. Alison is holding Neil up!

Two steps forward, one back, and three sideways - Alison and John need some help to get Neil back. 

Luckily that help arrived in the shape of shiny new 4 x 4.

And its stand up driver Shaun.

Sorry, its fall down driver Shaun.

After the meal, it was back to the hotel and a new experience for the Band - the cellar bar. We weren't the only guests in the hotel, there was also a party of 'more mature' Scottish folk. 

Yes, it's Karaoke time.

Tony's the only one that can remember the words.

Either James is tired, or he's not too impressed with the 'singing'.

Obviously Alison doesn't play cricket, always use the book, not the crocodile. And what dance is Vicki doing?

The evenings 'entertainment'. Barry the barman was hoping that we would give an impromptu concert, (not that we were capable - because our conductor had gone, not for any other reason [Neil excepted]), not because he likes the test-piece, he was just hoping we would drown out the singing!   

The only way Jimmy would shut up was to take his picture. It's a good job that these digital cameras have big memories.

Stewart wisely sticks to beer, whilst the rest of the table try Steve's Kiwi Kocktail - a mixture of milk, Baileys, Cointreau, lime cordial, and frozen water.

Don't adjust your computer - yes, that is Jez still up in the early hours.

I suppose it beats having a parrot on your shoulder.

Why does Jez look like that? He'd just woken up again, and the first thing he saw was Shaun.

Tony's got his mobile stuck again.

Three wise monkeys.

A proper action shot.

Mien host Barry - what a star.

Shaun starts to regret comparing the trombone to a kazoo!

After extracting himself, Shaun took his camera for a wander around the hotel. Please do not scroll down if you are easily frightened. To protect the innocent, no names are mentioned.

Alison gets ready for her big night out with George.

Dream on!

Last man standing.

Breakfast time - and that's bleary red eye, not flash red eye.

Nothing like a sea breeze to blow the cobwebs away.

Outside, and the sun is shining as we wait for Peter to bring the coach round to the hotel. Everybody looks well refreshed and well considering the late night........ everybody apart from Andrea, she still looks a little potted! Or perhaps she's gone to seed! Or even, wilting in the sunlight!

  No, smile and look at the camera.................at the same time.

Stewart, behind you. The bus (coach),............its gone!

 James gives us his best catalogue model pout and pose. Has he brushed his hair into a fashionable style, or is it bed-head? Answers on a post card please to Fidal Baboon.  

All this sun, it could almost be home.

 Our Chauffeur and carriage.

And again, this time in the action position.  

Our hardworking, youthful, energetic, and vigorous percussion section. 

Pictures by Shaun Davey, Kathy Newiss, and Mark Unsworth.

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