Bold as brass as second CD made

Members of a local brass band are blowing their own trumpets after recording and releasing their second CD.

Thurcroft Welfare Brass Band’s latest offering Best Of British features traditional brass band music from all over Britain.

The CD includes a march, a hymn, and a song or piece of music from England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

“We wished to show that Brass banding is found all over the UK,” said cornet player and band member of three years Sheila Hancocks.

“The pieces chosen took a long time to select in our practice sessions, and many pieces were tried and rejected before we settled on the final 12.”

“It was recorded in our band room in Thurcroft on 19th June in just one day. It is more hard work than enjoyable at the time of recording, although hugely satisfying when it is complete.”

This second release follows on from the band’s first CD entitled 100 Not Out.

Released last spring, it featured a specially commissioned march called Thurcroft Centenary March written by Darrol Barry in celebration of the centenary of Thurcroft Pit.

“During 2009 Thurcroft villagers attended a number of events to mark the centenary of the mining heritage of the village - a celebration of the 100 years since the sinking of the first shaft at Thurcroft Colliery in 1909,” she said.

“Following the centenary concert at the Gordon Bennett Memorial Hall, the band submitted an application to The Arts Council for funding to commission two centenary pieces.”

“That application was successful, and our first CD, recorded at the Church of St Simon and St Jude in Thurcroft is the Band’s contribution to those centenary celebrations.”

“This first CD was very successful and has sold well at our concerts. We decided to record a second CD to promote the band and to raise funds.”

The band currently has a number of vacancies, particularly for cornet players, bass players and trombone. But all are welcome whatever instrument they play.

“We are a friendly ambitious brass band promoted to the 3rd section about 18 months ago and are keen to consolidate our position in the rankings and do well in competitions,” she added.

“We have a training band for anyone wishing to learn, and enjoy playing music of all types, from traditional brass band music, music from the movies, light classical to swing and jazz.”

To get involved or to buy the CD priced at £6, visit www.thurcroftwelfareband.co.uk.