Issue 486 – Bratton Silver Band look forward to national finals

After a sensational performance in the South West Regional Brass Band Contest, Bratton Silver Band will be heading to the National Finals later this year.

While the band have made it through to the National Finals before in 1992, 2003, and 2004, this year’s success was made under the baton of new musical director, Simon Carr, who joined the band last year.
Band Secretary Lisa Hill reported, “The band was competing in the fourth section, held in the arena of the Riviera Centre in Torquay. The set test piece of music for the fourth section was ‘Prelude, Song & Dance’ by John Golland. Bratton Silver Band was drawn 13th – unlucky for some – but went on stage confident in the knowledge that they could pull off a worthy performance.
“Musical director, Simon Carr, was happy with the way the band played and it was up to the two adjudicators in the box to decide the results. The adjudicators had to listen to 22 bands in the fourth section, with varying interpretations, playing the same piece of music.
“It is with great delight that Bratton Silver Band is able to let everyone know they came 3rd and have therefore secured a place in the National Finals to be held in Cheltenham in September. Congratulations all!!!”
Bratton Silver Band is a thriving village band with around 30 adult members and 20 youngsters in a training band. It was formed originally of part-time musicians who played at St James Church, with the village band starting in 1859. The band participates in a variety of events every year, from contests to providing music for local events.