Celebrating a return to the National Finals

Early start for the band at the 2024 finals of the National Brass Band Championship

The band represented Wales at the October 2024 event with 10 members making their first appearance at the premier brass band contest. Performing amongst 20 representatives from across England, Wales and Scotland the band received the news early on the Saturday morning that it had drawn the dreaded number place and would kickstart the contest with the traditional rendition of God Save the King before presenting its performance of Harrison's Dream the chosen set work for the contest.

Having quickly completed its rehearsal a rushed journey to Kensington saw the band take to the stage at 10:00am to a welcoming audience at the Royal Albert Hall. It was then a long wait for the result and a search for food once the contest nerves had settled down.

Band Manager Paul Baxter reflected on the context saying, "It was a memorable experience for me, as one of the players competing at the Championship Sections Finals for the first time. I would like to thank all the players and supporters who made the day such as special occasion for us. In particular I would like to thank Owen Farr for his work in leading up to contest and the hard work and diligent preparation put in over many hours of leading us in rehearsal." 

Returning home, the band was able to reflect on the result and in particular that early draw and shortly thereafter to beginning the preparations for the 2025 contest year and the bust Christmas season ahead.