A busy time for Friary players

The Hogs Back Brewery annual Christmas concert

A busy few days for Friary players saw the Band returning to the Hog’s Back Brewery – only a few miles from the Friary’s brewery roots in Guildford - for the annual carol concert.  Revellers were in fine voice, possibly lubricated by the products on offer, joining in carols and, by special request, Bohemian Rhapsody. ‘Absolutely fantastic, Christmas has started,’ commented one audience member.

The previous day, a small contingent of players had performed at Chertsey’s annual Goose Fair, entertaining the crowds close to the Band’s base in the town.  The following Tuesday, no fewer than 11 Friary players again formed the core of Coalition Brass, a scratch band assembled by Matt Ruel to perform at charity Sarcoma UK’s carol concert at St. Giles in the Fields.  

As is the Friary tradition, next Sunday players will assemble at The Meadows shopping centre, Camberley to play carols and other seasonal music, collecting for Macmillan Cancer Support – a cause close to Friary’s heart - and Band funds.  That will be the Band’s final engagement for 2025:  we wish all our supporters and fellow bandspeople a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year.

Friary players perform as part of 'Coalition Brass'