from L-R: Chris Pearce, Cat Whittingham-Smith, Jack Beer, Glen Carroll, Peter Fewster, Kendall Skirving and Pat Donovan
With only one absence at the National Finals since 2013, Friary Brass Band itself is no stranger to the Royal Albert Hall. However, recent changes in the Band’s line-up mean that no fewer than seven players will be making their RAH debut next weekend. Bass players Pat Donovan, Cat Whittingham-Smith and Chris Pearce, Kendall Skirving and Jack Beer on cornet, Glen Carroll on soprano and Peter Fewster on trombone are all excited at the prospect.
‘Playing in the finals at the Albert Hall is definitely on the bucket list, really looking forward to playing on stage Saturday,’ commented Glen. Jack added: ‘After being in and around the banding scene my whole life, it’s a great feeling to be able to do the Nationals at the RAH - hopefully the first of many!’ And perhaps the greatest thrill will be for Pat who admitted: ‘I’ve been involved in the brass band world for 53 years and never believed I would make the stage at the RAH. All my family are going, a dream come true … thank you Friary.’
There’s also an opportunity to listen to Friary as the Band makes its final preparations for the big day with an open rehearsal at 8.00pm on Thursday 3rd October at Chertsey Hall, Chertsey KT16 9DR.
The contest is open to the public so please do come and support the bands competing. It will no doubt be an incredible day of music-making. Tickets can be purchased via the Royal Albert Hall website.
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