Starters, Leavers, Movers and Shakers

We have welcomed more new faces over the summer, Stanley on back row cornet - he hadn't played for a while but the rust is coming off now!! Deborah has also joined on Tenor Horn, and Brian on second baritone. Pete has moved down from second euph to first bari as that line was totally empty.

Caitlin has taken up a place at Bangor University so we won't be seeing much of her, but she promises to help us out during her holidays. We wish her all the best.

Jack has also had to call it a day as his maths classes clash with band practice, but he may be able to rejoin in the future.

Mike Pearson has been playing with Rhyl for some time now, and has decided to continue with them as he doesn't have the time to commit to both bands.

There aren't really any shakers, but the learners are all doing very well. Stanley and Brian joined Archie, Sue and Big Dave, and they are all sitting in for practices now, putting in the odd note here and there where they feel able. All credit to Dave Kent for the marvellous job he is doing with them.

Day Band Events

The day band played for the annual Gymanfa Ganu in Ruthin at the end of September, and were very well received.

On 15th October they played a concert in Trefnant Church to help raise money for church refurbishment. This was very enjoyable and the band played extremely well, despite having to call in two substitute players owing to holidays and illness. We shared the occasion with Anwen Hughes (soprano) from St Asaph Cathedral choir, who was accompanied by the Cathedral Organist, Alam McGuinness. The church was full and the concert was enjoyed by all.

Foden's workshop

On Saturday 1st October, several of us attended a workshop in Dolgellau run by Fodens band. This was very enjoyable, and the workshop band took part in the evening vconcert given by Fodens. You can read more about it at http://www.fodensband.co.uk/shop/news.php?article=205&osCsid=7fcbb829b6e29b5632a5415f8373ef99 We will try to arrange for more Beulah members to attend next year's event.

Summer Season

Both bands were very busy over the summer, having engagements every weekend from 11 June to the end of July, with some weekends having both Saturday and Sunday engagements. Abergele Carnival was a new event this year and while it was rather a long walk from the car park to the spot where our marquee had been pitched, it was most enjoyable and the weather was glorious, although at times we had to compete with a morris dancing display and a team of drummers!! There are photos in the gallery and there is also a video compilation of the carnival field, with the soundtrack mainly comprising band items recorded on the day. Have a look at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iwev0Nkwoj8&noredirect=1 and see what you think!

Photos and video are courtesy of our old friend, George Frost.

The day band played in the White Rose Centre in Rhyl on several Tuesday afternoons to raise money for various local charities, and a total of almost £350 was raised.