City of Chester flying high

The City of Chester Training Band is having a well earned a break over the summer holidays after a momentous first half of the year. In the spring a new training ensemble aimed specifically at children aged 7 – 11 was established under the direction of the Hallé Orchestra’s tuba player Ewan Easton MBE: the City of Chester Junior Band. Gradually the Junior Band is developing and membership is rising following a series of short promotional concerts in local primary schools given by members of the main City of Chester and Training Bands.

Aldford Village Hall was again the scene on Sunday 2 July for the City of Chester Training Band’s annual solo competition. Eight members played a piece of music of their own choice before the adjudicator, Robert MacDonald who plays Flugel Horn with the main Band. The winner was 15-year old Robert Tarver from Llay, playing a lyrical melody of his own composition on the cornet. Before the adjudication started, all entrants to the competition warmed up by playing a short band concert under the direction of conductor, Paul Donoghue. Paul has stepped in to conduct the Training Band after Chris Hardy had to step down due to ill health; a replacement for Chris is being sought for September onwards.

Chris Hardy’s efforts with the Training Band and his overall dedication to rehearsing and playing led City of Chester Band’s Musical Director (MD) Ewan Easton MBE to award him the MD’s Player of the Year award.

Anyone interested in joining the City of Chester Training Band should contact Tony Blain on 07913109951.

Photo: Chris Hardy receiving his award from Ewan Easton

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