Last Saturday saw Friary Guildford Band members take an evening off from performing and enjoy a relaxing dinner dance with their partners at the Runnymede Hotel. It also provided an ideal backdrop for presentation of the annual Band awards. After a first class meal, Band Chairman Nigel Stevens gave an overview of the year, testing players' memories of the various concerts, contests and events (see the 2014 Retrospective). All in all it was a highly successful year, with yet more silverware added to the band's trophy cabinet. Proud recipients of the annual awards were: Player of the Year – Chris Straker (euphonium) Most Improved Player – Alistair Richards (cornet) Section of the Year – Euphoniums & Baritones Best Attendance - Roland Knight (trombone) Bandsman of the Year – Lauren Straker Nigel Stevens summed the evening up: ‘This was an excellent evening - one where we were very pleased to acknowledge our success, and to thank all those who make Friary Guildford Band what it is: not just the players, but also our Musical Director, Chris King, and especially all our families who allow us to pursue our hobby.’ Hardworking Band Secretary, Lauren Straker agreed: ‘We’ve had excellent feedback and it looks as though I’ll be arranging another evening like this over the coming year!
