Hepworth Cookson Homes Band in church 

December 12th 2009

From the moment that the band walked down the aisle to the close of the evening, we were treated to a feast of music which showed the range and full capabilities of the players. Considering that the band had already played for three nights with the Huddersfield Choral Society (one rehearsal, and two concerts ) they were as bright and sharp as we would expect from a band of their standing. Consideration of the balance of the programme was also evident - the choice of the music, and including the audience to participate in singing of traditional carols.

The first two pieces immediately established the status of the band, and had the full attention of the audience, introducing the Christmas theme with “The Wonder of Christmas” followed as a contrast by “Dance Fever”.

The solos too were well chosen, the first by Natalie Beer, was a gentle , sweet rendition of “Away in a manger”, played on the Flugel horn. Backed by the band, she produced a roundness of tone which complemented the choice of the piece, and showed she was able to make her instrument "sing" to great effect. A beautiful solo.

John Rutter’s "Sheperds Pipe Carol" arr Peter Graham, again returned to the theme of Christmas and was a joy to listen to, showing a well balanced band responding to their musical director, David Hirst.

The first half was brought to a close by Leroy Anderson’s "Christmas Festival", a lively and enjoyable prelude to the mulled wine and mince pies served at the interval.

The second half commenced with "Christmas Triptych" keeping to the theme, and again making us sit up and take notice.   Then as a complete contrast Rebecca Landon came forward and played "Capriccio Brillante", on the Tenor Horn, and it was Brilliant. She played with the confidence and panache of the performer who is enjoying the challenge of this piece, determined to do it justice , and she succeeded in every way.

Another chance for us to join with the band as we sang "Once in Royal David’s City" This was followed by Leroy Anderson’s famous "Sleigh Ride", a lively and exciting piece allowing the percussion section to be a little more in the spotlight than is usual, and John Rutter's "Candlelight Carol", all three reminding us of the season to come.

The last item of the evening, "A Christmas Fantasy" by Gordon Langford brought the evening to a suitable ending.

Although not having mentioned every item in the programme, during the performance of a number of the pieces the beautiful sounds of the solo cornet shone through, as if to remind us of the high quality of all the players in the band whatever their choice of instrument. This was an evening when we sat and listened, were drawn into the music, and were reminded of the reason we celebrate Christmas. We came away having had an experience which was "a reight good do"