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Whit Friday Runners Up
Last night the Band competed at the annual Whit Friday march competitions in the Saddleworth area. We played ‘The President’ march in 8 contests; scoring one 1st, five 2nd and one 5th place. Unofficially (as yet) we have finished as Saddleworth area runners up, behind Brighouse & Rastrick. The Band got off to an early 4pm start and hence managed to compete in all but three of the Saddleworth contests, racking up just shy of £4,300 in total prize money for the evening!
Thanks go to MD Garry Cutt for working us hard this week and directing us so assuredly on the night, and to guest players Dave Morton (cornet), Ceri John (euphonium), Ben Knowles (trombone) and Andy Cattenach (BBb bass). Congratulations to Ben Richeton (soprano) and Ceri John (euphonium) for the solo prizes they gained around the events.
Ray Peacock Memorial
From 4BarsRest.com:
One of the great stalwart players of the Fairey Band will be remembered in May when it is hoped people will come together to pay their tributes to Ray Peacock at a special memorial concert.
Dedicated
Ray’s son Mark, told 4BR: “When the funeral took place at Tyldesley Parish Church in May 2012 over 400 people came to pay their respects to a dedicated brass bandsman, and hear Fairey Band pay their respects to a long-serving former member. It was such an emotional experience that the idea was suggested to organise a tribute charity concert to raise funds for Parkinson’s UK.”
Proud
Mark added: “Dad (above) was a proud member of the Fairey Band for some 30 years and he shared in their many contest successes. He was a dedicated and loyal bandsman, travelling for over 30 years from Tyldesley to Stockport to work at Fairey Aviation and play for the band.” Mark explained that his father was eventually diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease and ever since the Peacock family has raised money to support the research into the condition.
Parkinson’s Disease
He added: “It was felt by our family and friends that by bringing the Fairey Band back to Tyldesley and helping raise much needed funds for Parkinson’s UK, we could celebrate Dad’s life with music and memories.” Mark is looking forward to conducting the concert in his home town of Tyldesley and hopes all the local community will come together to support the special event. “There will be a rich and varied programme which will appeal to all musical tastes,” he said.
Raise funds
“Tyldesley and the surrounding areas have a strong tradition of brass band music and I know the audience will enjoy the programme of music chosen, and help raise money for Parkinson’s UK too.” Tickets for the event at Tyldesley Parish Church on Saturday May 18th can be bought on the door: adults – £10, children –free or can be reserved on 07944 109430.