Harborough (Conductor: Ben Smith) -

Band Number 7. Harborough Band (Ben Smith) - 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea

Kicking off after the break is the Midlands 2nd Section Champions who will be playing in the 1st Section from 2027. 

Very atmospheric opening with the Bass section and percussion. Lovely Tenor Horn entrance controlled well very. The dynamic contrast is very good, some of the best on display so far. Effective use of turning towards the audience for the muted cornets. Bursts into a lovely tune from the Front Row Cornets. What a rich sound from this band and we explode into a massive double forte! 

Some minor intonation troubles but nothing that detracts from the performance. Some lovely tuned percussion playing on the glockenspiel. The music rises and falls beautifully, the band is clearly aware of what they are being asked of. Euph tune is played very well. Faster section now, some lovely Bass Trombone notes. Tenor Horns once again impress. WOW! From nowhere they burst into some rips. Tenor Horns once again are going at it, I’m very impressed with the sound and quality on show from the band. 

Sections are flowing easily and styles are clear. Occasional points where parts are slightly out of time with each other but these are very occasional. The Sop once again nails his top note with sophistication. We move to a slower section led by the PC. What a lovely tone being produced and accompaniment from the rest of the band. Different tunes flow around the band never feeling disjointed. Solo Euph countermelody is a joy to listen to. Bravo. 

The piece once again builds and then drops. Flugel solo is well played. Bravo. 

Speeding up now, the crescendo then dropping to nothing is massively effective. Bursting to a huge sound. JUST WOW! This is such a joy to listen to. The Sop player once again shows lovely control in higher register. Crash cymbals effective. Bass Trombone notes once again down in the depths come through amazingly. Lovely build up to the end. 

Just Wow, that was something special. 

It is evident the amount of talent in this band and clear to see why they have gone up as 2nd section champions. 

Bravo and thank you.

~ Sam E.