A Christmas spectacular involving the Grimethorpe Band, the Grimethorpe Youth Band and Outwood Academy Brass ended a brilliant day for almost 70 children at the Outwood Academy on Sunday 8th December.
Led by Helen Varley, the ‘fledglings’, made up of pre-grade children had its largest ever contingent of 21 children, including 5 percussion, and to help everyone feel at ease the group started off with a games and musical activities, before turning its attention to their pieces, Christmas Rock and Jingle Bells, choosing which part to play depending on their ability.
In the main room, musical director Paul Lovatt-Cooper led the band through a Christmas themed programme, which included his own ‘A Christmas Finale’. Work was done by members of the band in attendance, including Solo Euphonium player Michael Dodd and Principal Cornet player Iain Culross, as well as Principal Trombone player Chris Binns and Principal Percussion Rhianon Harding.
The work continued throughout the day and culminated when Dr. David Thornton and the rest of the senior band arrived and the combined forces of Junior and Senior bands, aided by the Shafton School band and choir delivered a brilliant concert for a large and appreciative crowd.