Band Activities
The summer is the main period for public performance, when the
band plays at garden fetes, galas and other charitable events. In winter, the
band concentrates on learning new music and gives indoor concerts.
The band also
holds Workshop Days. At these, a guest conductor works with the players to
improve the general performance. Workshop Days give a chance to tackle longer
or more complex pieces than time allows at weekly rehearsals. Generally the
band organises at least one each year.
The band includes experienced players who have been with the band for years,
and youngsters, and a number of oldsters who began playing late in life. All
enjoy making music together,
and preparing to play before an audience.
Foreign Forays
In
May 1999, the Bisham Concert Band made its first overseas tour to Portugal and since then has played in Spain (2001) and most recently Belgium (2006).
Two venues were visited in Belgium - Ostend and Bruges. The band played in the famous Markt in Bruges and this concert was thought to be the hottest experienced to date. A full report of this visit may be found here.
During the Portugese visit, one of the concerts was given with a community band in Parede. It was the success of this visit that encouraged the band to
arrange more trips. In May 2001, the band visited Barcelona
and again played with two local bands as well as giving a concert on its own.
Such visits promote international music-making and friendship. By way of returning
the compliment, the band has also played in joint concerts with visiting bands
from Spain and the USA.
Copyright © 2006 Bisham Concert Band