Toddington Town Brass Band, Contesting, Musical Tuition

2010 marks Toddington Town Band's centenary year, with a programme of events to celebrate this milestone. As the move from 2009 to 2010 marks the end of the bands first hundred years, it also marks the end of another era. At our Christmas concert on the 14^th of December, John Farmer retired after 16 years, passing his baton to Mick Atkins. We wish John and his wife Frances a happy and productive retirement and offer our support to Mick as he takes over the helm.

We also welcome Andy Snowball to the band, who has filled the vacant principal cornet position. Thanks go to Dave Horsler who filled the position in the interim and has now resumed his position as repiano cornet. Other additions to the band membership come in the form of returning members. Nick Smith has returned after taking a break, trading his Cornet for an Eb Bass and Sarah Robinson returning from university and rejoining our Euphonium section. A warm welcome is extended to these members along with anyone wishing to join to the band.

Our learner band is going from strength to strength. Under the watchful eye and careful baton of Andrea Horsler, the band has grown to a formidable size. Six cornets, four tenor horns, three baritones and euphoniums and two basses are practising hard to prepare music for our Cream Teas on the Green event, (see poster).

We would like to remind you of our offer of free tuition. Anyone of any skill level is welcome to come to the social club on a Tuesday night to create music. Dave, Christine and Pamela offer instruction on the full range of brass instruments. Some of our current students are now moving in to the learners band and continuing to develop, so now is an ideal time to join. We even offer the free loan of an instrument, subject to availability, so contact our secretary for more information.

Our programme is developing for the coming year with new bookings being taken. If you would like to hear us perform, please feel free to join us at the following events.

Finally, we are recording our first CD in May, which will be available for purchase to support the band and enjoy at your leisure. Tracks will include pop favourites and movie themes along with traditional brass band pieces. Please visit our website, www.toddingtontownband.org.uk for more information. Full details will also be included in our next report.