Camborne Town Band

Over the next 6 weeks, log in regularly as we reveal the 'behind the scenes news' on the Band's preparation for the All England Masters.

Sun 18th April - Listen To The Band

Today saw the band complete their BBC2 Listen to the Band recording for this year. Due to be aired on Friday 2nd July, the show will include solos from L Plate and Josey, as well as a Norwegian Woods, Irish Blessing, and a host of other favorites. Today was really the 'changing of the guard' as we say farewell to Major Paul Murrell for the summer, and prepare to welcome Lt Col Chris Davis, Principal Director of Music of HM Royal Marines Band Service. Having been victorious at the West Of England contest last month by winning the second section with Otterbourne Brass, the PDM (as he will now be known) is said to be full of vigor and enthusiasm for the test ahead. Indeed, just recently, the PDM put together an all star Royal Marines Band who recorded the test piece Harrisons Dream. The first engagement for the PDM will however be the much prized Trevithick Day Midday Concert on Saturday 24th April.

As the band have been rather busy with the Macmillan Concert, and the Listen to the Band recording preparation, bandmaster Graham Barker has called an additional rehearsal on Tuesday to enhance the initial work done on Harrisons Dream.

Tuesday 20th April - Getting ready to get all Steamy

Tonight started with preparation for Saturday’s Trevithick Day. With Graham directing the band tonight, we whiz through some of the programme for our lunchtime concert before a short break, and turning to the more serious matter of commencing work on Harrison’s Dream – the test piece for Cambridge at the end of May.

The band room is buzzing with excitement tonight, as we not just look forward to Chris Davis coming on Friday, but also with the good news that Shaun Thomas will rejoining the band on principal tuba at the beginning of May.

Friday 23rd April - Chris Davis arrives

After much anticipation and excitement, the man himself arrives. Lt Col Chris Davis – Principal Director Of Music - Royal Marines will be directing us for the next month as we work towards the All England Masters in Cambridge. The rehearsal commences with ‘topping and tailing’ the concert music for tomorrow. Chris seems pleased with the band, and the band responds well in return. The crowds should be in for a treat tomorrow as not only is the sun shining, but so is the band.

After a short break to draw breath (and the weekly raffle), we start work on Harrison’s Dream. Skipping the first few nightmare bars for cornets, we settle down to some hard work on most areas of the music, with many pondering whether they should be practising between the marches and concert tomorrow in preparation for Sunday’s rehearsal. A good turn out at the Railway Inn afterwards puts Chris at ease, and it seems that he will be enjoying his time in Cornwall with us.

Saturday 24th April – On foot today, on engines tomorrow

The day of the year that the whole of Camborne look forward to – Trevithick Day. Arriving at the band room at 9.30, the turn out appears to be a little sparse. The traffic is heavily congested today, and even the simplest journey turns into a trial. Josey (who probably lives the closest to the band room) left home in plenty of time for his half-mile drive, only to be stuck in traffic for half an hour. Despite the mild look of panic across Squibby’s face as he tries to split 60 players into two balanced bands, we manage it just as Rebecca Bond is on the phone, rather concerned that the dance starts in 10 minutes, and the bands are nowhere in sight.

With a cloudless sky, the two wallops on the bass drum set us off, bang on 10.15. The march seems harder and harder each year, but the sight of people singing along, and clapping the rhythm is a sheer delight. Band no.1 reaches Centenary Chapel, and hear the second band making their way through the streets. The bass drum seems a little quieter than we have come to expect from Mr Tellam, perhaps some culture and sense has reached him at last. NO FEAR of that happening, the drum was only quiet due to the fact that he had managed put the stick through the skin. I really must question the health and safety laws at times – no steam engines are allowed through the streets, but Tellam is let loose with a bass drum!!!

The lunchtime concert goes well, even with the intervention of the Drum and Pipe band at one stage. The positive feedback we receive after the concert is superb, not only are the band impressed with Chris, but so are the crowd. In the Railway at lunchtime, Chris is having a great time. I’m not sure our marching talent has him doing somersaults, but he certainly seems to be enjoying working with the band, and the response is great.

2.30pm sees us lead the final dance of the day with a 55 strong band winding through the streets. The view of the band from the back row is one to behold. Youth, B and Senior bands all marching together, and all wearing the same jackets this year. One notable absence this year (other than the engines) was Alan Pope - Musical Director of the Youth Band. Alan is abroad having a well-deserved break after leading the Youth Band to their National Champions crown earlier in the month. As we reach the end of Trelowarren Street, we become aware of what is following – a New Orleans style funeral band with the parade of engine drivers. Amongst the many drivers, one banner is held aloft “on foot today, on engines tomorrow”

Saturday evening – Tristan Encounters, and Josey goes all martial

After the efforts of the day, what was originally planned as a small quiet barbeque turns into a somewhat larger, and less quiet affair. With most of the usual suspects on hand, the Band’s recording of the Area performance appears, and is played to every new guest as they arrive. When the official party arrive (Reg, Sue, Marcus and Chris), it is played for a 5th time, and those of us there from the start are glad in a way that we will be singing that for the rest of the day rather than Camborne Worthies.

A very pleasant evening developed into a humorous night, as once Chris left with Reg, the hair was let down a little more – notably with Josey’s fine display of wood chopping – using his forehead. The clever money was on his head hurting the following morning – low and behold it did. With the gathering around the ever-impressive chimnea reducing, we head inside at around 1.30am. Rumour is, that Graham and Josey called it a night at 6.30am – that’s the way to prepare for a 3 hour rehearsal at 10am.

Sunday 25th April - Sectionals Commence

10am – cornet sectional. We start work on the simpler sections, and all are feeling comfortable. All of a sudden, Chris says those haunting words – ‘lets go from the top’ and we are faced with the demi-semi-quavers, which need to be played at fortissimo – not bluffitissimo. Despite the demanding nature of the parts, Chris reassures the section, and encourages us to work hard at this over the next 3 weeks. We take the suggestion seriously.

11 am – rest of the band. The main highlight and focus here tends to be on the trombone section. Chris enquires of Woody what colour his hair will be at the contest. ‘I don’t know yet’ says Woody. Chris requests to be kept informed of any colour change by our flamboyant Bass Trombonist.

12 am – full band. We work on most parts of the piece, and the end of rehearsal pep talk lets us know what we need to be doing over the next few weeks until Chris is down again (14th May). He wants to do well with us, and we want to do well with him – plenty of hard work ahead.

Wednesday 28th April - 'Nothing like a good blow'

And blow it did. Tonight saw the band at the Dwehelans Cornish Homecoming concert on the Barrowfield in Newquay. You may think playing in a marquee on a spring Cornish evening to be a sedate and refined affair - but not when there is a force 7 gale coming straight off the Atlantic and into our tent.

The band arrived, to be blustered across the car park towards the tent, which incidentally was a great feat of engineering not to have ended up in Truro judging by the strength of the wind, First casualty of the night was Josey's band tie, as it flew off into the distance. As the band arrived, more and more suggestions for the programme were forthcoming : 'will your anchor hold'; 'gaelforce'; whistle down the wind' amongst others.

Once the harpist had finished harping, and the plates were cleared away after the five course meal, the band took the stage in our trademark way to Eve Of The War - as introduced tonight by BBC's Chris Blount. Padstow Lifeboat had to be played in honour of any foolhardy mariner daft enough to be out on the ocean at the time, before we launched into the ever popular (with the audience at least) Cornish Though and Through. After a few more local numbers, and the heat from the swaying lighting rig now starting to affect Graham a little, we play Irish Blessing. Unusual in its nature tonight, being introduced as a duet of three instruments, then four actually start!! For Bugle, we will apparently be marching in single file, in pairs of three if GB has his way.

A rousing Mythick Trevithick, written to celebrate the 200 year anniversary of the creation of Puffing Devil, rounds off the evening, leaving just enough time for a Floral Dance encore. Despite the North Sea like conditions, and needing more pegs to keep the music under control than at Bugle, the band again turned out a fine performance, and now settle down to focusing on Harrisons Dream before Chris Davis descends on us once more.

Thursday 29th April - Goodbye Sally

In a departure from the normal jovial nature of the diary, I feel it important to give the reader the full effect and impact of the activities which affect the bandsmen's lives. Today, we said goodbye to Sally Nicholas, mother of our ex-trombone player Diddy. Sally sadly passed away last week, only months after we all celebrated Diddy and Johanna's wedding.

A packed chapel at Penmount Crematorium sung The Old Rugged Cross and The Day Thou Gavest Lord Has Ended, and our thoughts and wishes are with all family members at this sad time. For those of us who knew Sally well, we can never forget the mammoth pre-contest breakfasts, or the great amusement she had from the Camborne Town Band tug-o-war team last year at Gweek Pig Roast being pulled every which way.

She will be sadly missed.

Tuesday 4th May - New Look Bass Section Sets The Pace

Tonight saw the first sectional - the basses start at 7pm prompt with two rousing hymn tunes "Lloyd, & Miseriacordia", affectionately called misery accordion. Starting work on Harrison, time was spent at the top, working on those ever so tricky semi-quavers, getting Eric`s tongue to work faster, and more importantly, teaching Graham the fingering for F natural (the pitch of the Bb may be a fourth lower, but I think the valves stay in the same place).

Tuning and sound through the slow passages were next to be worked on, with all four players cooking on gas now. New star signing Shaun effortlessly romped through his solo, warmly accompanied by the rest, and on to the finale section (no time for bell rehearsal tonight). Again a little tidying, and focus on breathing within the new look bass section, with particular attention spent trying to ensure that last long note stays in tune throughout. It's going to be great slotting this new look section into the full band on Thursday night.

It was soon 8.30pm and a pint of liquid refreshment was beckoning at The Railway Inn, Graham & Timmy`s arms needed a little twisting as normal, but reluctantly gave in eventually. Tomorrow night is the back row, starting at 7pm.

Wednesday 5th May - Back Row Get To Grips With The Opening

Tonight's back row sectional took place in the Donald Thomas centre in the middle of the town, consisting of Vicky, Chris, Mo, Sharon and Tracey who all pleasantly surprised Graham with the fluency of the playing that is being achieved at this relatively early stage.

Chrissy was suffering after a long weekend holiday in Majorca (a surprise from his better half) and in his own words said he had a production of a seagull (skwawking in his native Newquay)!! Mo is suffering from tiredness due to phantom burglars at her household!! (dont ask).

Concentrating on ensuring that the basic mathematics of the music were in place, which generally they were, the few areas which needed a little attention were promptly put right. After a quick look at the slow stuff, complete with Chris's seagull impressions, we moved to the opening. This must probably be the most demanding technical opening for third cornets ever written. Credit where credit is due, Sharon and Tracy worked their socks off, as have the rest of the section, giving us a good platform to start from.

Full band tomorrow.

Thursday 6th May - Some Sound Mind

To quote Mr Joslyn 'Some Sound Mind'. The new look E flat bass tem was unveiled to the rest of the band this evening, and what a difference it makes. In line with 4BarsRest comments about Shaun, he certainly is one of the finest lower brass players around.

After a quick warm up on a few hymn tunes, and apologies given from those missing : Mo, Charlotte and L Plate were all committed with college work, and Neil who was house-sitting in Spain, we set about putting Harrison into place.

It seems to come together better and better, but Chris will give us all definitive direction next weekend when he is down. As a spot of light relief, we work on music for the Trevada Music concert later this month. The programme is likely to include such favourites as 'Sounds Of Brass', 'Music', and 'Lightwalk' as well as accompanying percussionist Simone Rebello. Back to the beginning of Harrison, just to give all cornets a sleepless night or two, and we part company after some stamina practice from the hymn book.

Sunday 9th May - Budget Band, With Time Of The Essence

Perhaps the description 'budget band' is a little harsh. A few absentees today, but all sat in the same area around the band. Steve and Vicky had gone up country to play with Andy Craze's band, Nick and Tracy had gone to Appledore for the weekend, Rob was tied up with a high profile bowls final, and Neil is still house sitting in Spain.

We start by having a look at Essence of Time - the Test Piece for Bugle Contest in June. Many of the band have played this before, so the run through goes pretty well, with some superb playing in places. The odd corner needs looking at, but generally this has put us at ease a little since we will only have three weeks to work it up after Cambridge.

Turning back to Harrison, we realise how far the band have already come on this piece. Still a bit scrappy at the beginning, but the work put in by the back row is really starting to pay off now. The basses continue to gel, and the Colonel seems at home on Bb bass. Tellam and Billy have a debate at the back, and sound more like Auntie Maud and Auntie Ethel arguing over who is going to have the last slice of battenburg for tea.

All too soon 12 o'clock approaches, and we all head off to enjoy the glorious sunshine today. Trombone and cornet sectionals are planned for Thursday, then a weekend of sectionals and full band with Chris. Sunday morning rehearsal will commence at 10 am.

Thursday 13th May - Sectionals Again

Tonight saw two sectionals take place, the front row rehearsing in the Donald Thomas Centre, and the trombones in the bandroom.

The major work tonight for the front row was put in on the tricky chorale section – split city if it’s not quite right, but it is really starting to shape up now. A quick look at the other technical aspects of the piece, and its off home to rehearse for Chris arriving tomorrow.

The trombones – under the direction of Stevie welcome back Neil from his week of house sitting in Spain. All credit to Neil, he even took his trombone with him, no doubt that delighted the locals. More work to be done on several places here, but it is certainly improving at a great rate of knots.

Friday 14th - Even More Sectionals

Clear blue skies and perfect weather seem to be the order of the day when Chris is down. Yet another gorgeous weekend is ahead of us, and tonight sees things commence with a full cornet sectional. Starting from the end and working back, it is generally a matter of tweaking things. The trick 7/16 and 9/16 bars throw a few people, but eventually a consensus of opinion is reached (funnily enough agreeing what is written on the part), and we tackle the opening few bars. Generally this is pretty good, however Chris likens it to a lawn mower starting up, gradually getting up to full speed – a few more sleepless nights yet I fear.

The horns arrive for their start at 8.30 and again tackle the trickier bits of the piece, which seem to be generally slotting in the right place. Still a little more work to do yet, but that is no bad thing.

Saturday 15th - Yet Again More Sectionals

After a day in the sun for everyone, 6 pm comes around with the bottom end sectional. The bottom end tonight comprises of basses, Euphs, Baritones and Trombones. Chris is very impressed with the new look bass section, and the baritones have a quiet time of it generally.

Despite their efforts on Thursday, the trombones are kept behind after class for more work, when it transpires that although Neil had been practising hard on holiday, he had been practising it wrong – it was great stuff nevertheless. Finally the trombones are released to go home and indulge in that bastion of quality music – the Eurovision Song Contest.

Sunday 16th - Too Much Of A Good Thing???

10 am start today with full band. Rob Jose is away (doing far too well for our liking) at a bowls tournament, Rob Sandow is away as he has a course at work – advanced burger flipping I guess, Jo is working, and Billy rolls in late as always. Chris is still suffering it seems from the sore throat and cough he brought with him on Friday, and true to form, gets little sympathy from the band.

An impromptu break for the band at 11am happens as Chris makes a dash for the door. It appears that he enjoyed his breakfast so much, that he wanted to taste it again!! After plenty of coughing and spluttering, and a much needed “excuse me Hughie”, Chris returns inside to describe the side of pig, and barn full of eggs he was given for breakfast. “Would you like more toast?” seems to have been the final straw. For those readers who do not know Chris, he is not the stereotypical image of a Royal Marine, no skinhead haircut, not 6’6” tall, and certainly not 20 stones of pure muscle and fighting power. The well-balanced metabolism of the ever-refined Principal Director Of Music, was apparently not too well suited to a platter of Cornish fayre.

With renewed vigour, we set about the piece again. After trying to convince Chris that they had mastered the tricky semi-quavers, the back row and trombones are invited to sing their parts. Neil comes to the conclusion that he would rather sing his part rather than play it, perhaps a career with Climax Choir may be beckoning. Rounding things off at 12.30, Chris ensures that we are all aware of what we need to do. Generally it seems that a bit of individual practise and concentration should do the trick.

Friday night is the next rehearsal with Chris, then Saturday at 5.30pm, followed by our concert at the Hall for Cornwall on Sunday evening.

Fri 21st - Big Phil, Little Phil, and a Giant Bell

Tonight the band welcomed our two Phils to rehearsal. Big Phil (Trudgeon) is back with us, and brought with him little Phil, also from the Royal Marines. Little Phil is another top class percussionist from Her Majesty's finest, and as an ex Sunlife player, he brings a wealth of experience with him. In addition to all that experience, our fine Marines also brought with them a ship's bell, quite a large bell in fact. If it is a little quiet in your parish this Sunday morning, just take a casual stroll up to the bell tower, and look for any unattached ropes, believe me, this bell is a monster!!

Chris Davis is back with us again tonight, and except for Billy - who is at a show (I'm not sure what he is showing or where!), all are present. Rob was a little late arriving as he got involved in a bowls match (which sadly they lost), and Tracy had to leave early due to baby sitting problems.

Perhaps it was a good job that Tracy and Nick's children were present for the first hour or so tonight. We didn't exactly find the solution to the Longitude problem, and came close to running ashore on a few places. Despite the challenges facing him, Chris kept his humour to the end, although did get a little dis-orientated himself when saying "...lets go from letter E, no, we'll go before that, letter F".

The mystery coughing fit seems to have headed to the back row tonight. When practising a particular tricky part, the coughing curse hit Vicky, who promptly had to dash out of the bandroom (only to return when we had moved on a few bars). Normal service was resumed upon her return, and in all fairness, the rep part is as secure as a ship's anchor.

The slow central part of the piece goes well tonight, and Chris is generally pleased with the progress being made. Tomorrow is cup final day, so rehearsal is planned for 5.30 - initially for Graham to rehearse the concert music for Sunday, then for Chris to attack Harrison again.

We were pleased to learn this evening that Frank will be taking the band to London in October. For more information on this story, visit the news page.

Saturday 22nd - Happy Birthday to You, and You, and You

This weekend sees a number of birthdays around the band. First and foremost is that of our conductor Chris Davis, who has reached the sprightly age of 45. Neil is 31 today, and the baby of the bunch Phil is 21 on Monday. Despite all the celebratory events, the band work ever so hard tonight, both in preparation for the contest next week, but also for tomorrow night’s concert.

Graham started proceedings off by whizzing through the concert programme : Stars and Stripes, Coming to America, Morning In Cornwall, amongst other pieces. We hand out the accompaniment for the two percussion solos we are playing with Simone Rubello, and discover that perhaps these should have been looked at before. It will be all right on the night…I hope!

Chris takes over proceedings at 6.15 and works hard on various segments of Harrisons Dream. With a full compliment of players other than Woody and Rob Sandow who were both working, great progress is made, culminating in a run through at 7.48. (quite an exact time, but as we were finished by 8, it must have been that time).

Chris is heading back home tonight, first to open all of his birthday presents, then to conduct Bournemouth Band tomorrow night. He will return on Monday.

Several of the band head off to Treasurer Marcus Dunstan’s house for a barbeque. A good turn out, plenty of good food (other than the burgers which Josey and Stevie were in charge of), plenty of refreshment, good banter, and a snooker tournament. Some of the music played by Marcus' guests had huge variety. The background sounds started quite promising, as Illogan Downs were treated to a Queen CD. This was followed by an excellent big band CD, but then rapidly changed as one of those recordings granny likes was aired. All the old fashioned brass band music, old marches, interesting arrangements, and vibrato as wide as the Grand Canyon. Claims were made that Marcus’s CD player was particularly tricky to operate, but I think some love that old ‘nostalgic’ music. The other bright light from the evening, (other than Josey’s 8ft high flame from the chiminea) was the unearthing of the band’s performance of ‘Moon to Mexico’ at London several years ago. Great playing all round, and something which we hope to surpass this year.

Tomorrow is the Trevada Music 20th Aniversary Concert in the Hall For Cornwall, where hopefully, we will accompany Simone Rubello.

Sunday 23rd - Sounds Of Brass

Today started at 7pm for the band. After some panicking about the xylophone for rehearsal, we finally found something for Simone to play, and off we went. All the tempos work well, and then it was just the odd note to worry about here and there. Meanwhile, down at the Hall For Cornwall, the Youth Band were thrilling the audience with their National Championship winning concert. We arrive just prior to half time, and prepare ourselves for the show.

Opening with Sounds Of Brass – written for Phillip Hunt, it is a great thrill to have the man himself present and acting as compere for the evening. On to the percussion solos, and things hold together very well. We start together, finish together, and most of the stuff in the middle was great. For all their good points, none of our percussionists look quite as good as Simone!!

While the other guests of the evening perform, we re-open our set at ten past ten with Stars And Stripes. Graham takes the liberty of pushing this on big time, but the crowd love it, even if the piccolo part was approaching speeds of the impossible. Morning in Cornwall always is a great crowd pleaser, and tonight was no exception with soulful playing from Nobby and Josey.

Pastime With Good Company brought things back to life with the kitchen sink brigade on fine form. Coming to America ended the concert, and with the crowd baying for more, we launch into rather upbeat Eve Of The War. A little bit of trickery here with a longer than normal timp roll, leading many of the crowd to believe it was the National Anthem.

At half past ten the show was over, and we head off home to turn our minds back to Harrison, as Chris is back tomorrow night

Monday 24th - More detail and a Few Special Effect

Tonight’s rehearsal was mainly concerned with the finer detail of the test piece. L-plate was away at college, and Squibby was a little late due to work, but the stars of the show tonight were the trombone section closely followed by the back row. Good news comes from Pob that Shaun and Little Phil are both now signed up in time for the contest, thus avoiding a week of sleepless nights.

Prior to rehearsal, the percussion section had an hour sectional rehearsal, those outside said it sounded more like Commando basic training as Phil tries to school Billy in the art of doing things the Marines way. Another 15 minutes after rehearsal and we say goodbye to Little Phil until Saturday as he returns back to Portsmouth. Some great work in the slow section, and focus on the bell section closes rehearsal tonight. Around the corner at the Railway, it is quiz night, unfortunately we miss the start, and so have the luxury of sitting in the corner producing stupid answers to the questions.

The discussion eventually comes around to the special effects we can get from the percussion during the bell section. Thankfully the plan to submerse a tam-tam into a bath of water has been scrapped, however this has now been replaced by an equally bizarre strategy. Secrecy prevents me from disclosing this one, but if this is replaced with plan C, rest assured, you will be the first people to know.

Tomorrow night is in the band-room again, and then Wednesday and Thursday are at Roskear School. Chris will be away on Friday night, giving us a chance to look at the Bugle pieces.

Tues 25th - Run No.2, with fine bell playing

With both second cornets (Mo and Chris) away tonight, there was somewhat of a hole on the cornet section. L plate was back with us after an arduous trip down from Paignton, but Little Phil was back in Portsmouth with the Marines. Plenty of work tonight again on the finer detail of the piece, with the main focus around the tricky back row part at X and Y. Some superb shaping of the slow section takes place, then we run the piece from top to bottom to finish.

Woody was sporting a new hair do tonight, best described as work in progress (a blonde strip down the middle of his head, which apparently is going to turn blue for the weekend), and the bell playing was quite superb. 4BarsRest have produced their usual analysis of the competing bands for Sunday, and seem as ever very non-committal on us. A rather strange comment wondering why we did not go to the Grand Shield weekend in Blackpool (costs of £4000 may have something to do with it), and some subtle praise for Chris sums up their thoughts on us. Wednesday night sees the band head for Roskear School, with the cornets having a short sectional at 7.30.

Wed 26th - Second Sea Trial a Great Success

With the first initial sea trials out of the way earlier in the week, and after a few adjustments to the workings and mechanics of the clock which is Camborne Town Band, we embark tonight on a first proper test of Harrison’s Dream, some what similar in many respects to the test of Harrison’s clock H-1 on its trip aboard HMS Centurion to Lisbon and back.

The first run was nothing too spectacular, everything held together, the odd bit here and there not quite in its place, but nothing to write home about. After an hour or so of tinkering and adjustment, we prepare for the home leg, and despite the ‘gales and calms’ we have endured through each rehearsal since we started work on the piece, everything slots back into place. The odd bar here and there not quite in time, but our master clock maker Chris Davies keeps us on track, somewhat similar to John Harrison aboard the Centurion when the ship’s master – Roger Wills, mistook The Lizard for the coast near Dartmouth.

The things which we had been having difficulty with all slotted into their proper places, and the only errors were those which don’t normally happen. The trombone section, initially described as the ‘Kings of Instruments’ by Chris, which did draw a few sniggers from around the band, are now really living up to their name. Rumour is abound that Nick has come off his vegetarian diet and started to eat raw meat three times a day. Chris described one of their gorgeous chords as ‘a man’s moment…. Then the girlie comes in on sop’, how flattering for Squibby.

L plate was away tonight through college commitments, other than him and Little Phil, it was a full house, and fine playing from all around. Not a huge crowd this evening, three in fact, but that may be due to our choice of rehearsal venue. For those who do not know where Roskear School is, come out of Camborne, past Tesco, after about 200 yards, Roskear School is signposted on the right. Continue up the lane until the end, and we will be rehearsing in the hall at 7.45 tomorrow.

Tomorrow night will be our last rehearsal in Cornwall before we depart for Cambridge. As Chris is in Portsmouth on Friday, it has been decided to have a night off to give everyone time to ‘iron their socks’ as Graham said. Rehearsal will again be in Roskear School, and we hope for a cracking turn out. After tonight’s second sea trial, it should be a good one, and the band is now flying high with confidence.

Thurs 27th - Breaking All London Records

This week has seen the band break all records set in the run in to London last year. The supporter count tonight exceeded 25 (were it not for the concentration required to accurately play the piece, I could have tallied the accurate number), and the number of readers logging into the site – that’s YOU, have exceeded 40 a day, where in the run in to London, our largest audience was 20-ish, and the highest log-on rate was 32 prior to the contest. Tonight, we had a whole bass section listening - Lee (who flies off on holiday tomorrow), Gormo (who’s wife won’t let him come out to play with the lads anymore), and the two Johns – Roberts and Adams who play with our B Band. Nigel Chadd, our recently retired percussionist also came along, as did Micky Weeks – another ex-bass player of the band.

After a structured look at every area of the piece in meticulous detail, and the odd humorous quip along the way ‘follow me I’m right behind you’ was Chris’ best one tonight, we have a quick break to compose ourselves for the run-through. We now know which segment of the draw we shall be in at the contest (this mini-pre draw segments the bands in to 3 sections – 1-7, 8-13, and 14-19. Confidentiality prevents us from publishing where we will play on the website, so the Itinerary published tomorrow night may seem a little woolly.

Chris addresses the crowd, reading the story of what the piece is all about, and how it is based on Sobel’s novel all about Harrison’s struggles to perfect the perfect time-piece to calculate longitude. Having recently read the novel myself (yes mother, I can read !!), the struggle which Harrison went through to perfect the workings, and attempt to win the £20,000 prize (which incidentally was never awarded) was immense, and eventually drove him to his grave. I guess at times this week, Chris may have been close to leaping in the old pine box, pulling down the lid, and being covered in six feet of soil, but his aim and direction never erred, keeping his composure and sense of humour to the last.

The address fires the band up, and we give Harrison’s Dream our final run on Cornish soil before setting sail for Cambridge. All in all, the run goes very well. Just the odd bit here and there which could be more exact, but no major problems, nothing to concern ourselves with, and now on Saturday, we can concentrate on putting the polish on the performance, and squeezing that extra 20% out which could see us rise up the placings. Even without that 20%, there were many times tonight which had that ‘hair on the back of your neck standing up feeling’, and with Little Phil returning on Saturday, armed with a box of tricks to complete the percussion effects, things are looking promising for Sunday.

Don’t forget to log in tomorrow night around 9pm to check on the latest news, and keep up to date with the itinerary for the weekend.

Fri 28th - Ready for the Ultimate Test

Tonight is the band’s night of relaxation. After a strenuous day at work for some, we all prepare for the weekend ahead. Shirts will be ironed (mostly), jackets will be prepared, swimming trunks will be unearthed (lets hope not all members do this), and copious amounts of food will doubtlessly be gathered together for our long and arduous trip to Cambridge. Using Trathens coaches again, we should be assured of a good trip, and the hotel – the Cambridge Moat House is of great quality. Chris and Little Phil will meet us in the hotel tomorrow, both leaving Pompey around lunchtime, while the rest of us set off at a Postman Pat time – just as day is dawning!!

The itinerary for the weekend follows as such :

Saturday 29th

7.00

Load Coach

7.30

Leave Camborne

8.00

Pick Up at Queens

10.00

Taunton Deane Services (20 minute break)

14.00

Reading Services (40 minute break) approx

16.30

Arrive at Moat-house Hotel Cambridge

19.30

Rehearsal at Hotel

23.00

Lights out

Sunday 30th

9.00

Breakfast

10.30

Rehearsal at Hotel

10.50

Draw Takes Place

12.00

Contest Starts

21.30

Contest ends

21.45

Coach leaves Cambridge for Hotel

Monday 31st

8.30

Breakfast

9.30

Coach leaves hotel

11.30

Reading Services

15.30

Taunton Deane Services

18.00

Queens drop off

18.30

Return to Camborne

So with all the preparation done, the ship leaves Camborne tomorrow morning facing probably one of the stiffest tests we have seen. Over the years the band has played many technical pieces, often featuring a few members of the band, this one however tests every player to the extreme. Over the past weeks it has been a challenge, but an enjoyable one, and as we settle back this evening to reflect on what is in store for the weekend ahead, we must bear one thing in mind, through all the trials and tribulations which Harrison faced trying to perfect his timepiece, his dogged determination kept him going. In every sense, the production of those timepieces reflects the work and development the band have put in, and now it is time for the ultimate test. Not the West Indies test which faced Harrison (nice as it would be), but playing against 18 of England’s finest bands in Cambridge, and we are fortunate to have a superb captain (well Lieutenant Colonel to be exact) of our ship.

The update of the weekend will appear as soon as possible on our return, possibly on Monday evening, at the latest Tuesday.

Sat 29th - Setting Sail For Cambridge

Rising at some un-earthly time this morning, and heading for sunny Camborne, we commence loading the coach at around 7ish. The coach is actually Darley Ford, not Trathens as originally thought. Storage space underneath is of a premium, first to be ditched are the tubular bells, closely followed by the large bass drum. Whilst this may not amuse the percussion team too much, sacrifices have to be made in this cruel world of ours.

Off we go, only 10 minutes late and the itinerary already in tatters. On arrival at Queens, Woody’s Cambridge hairstyle is unveiled, a rather dashing blue rinse, with blonde Mohawk is the order of the day. The great entertainer has already perfected Marco from Big Brother, and so amuses us no end.

The first MGE (money grabbing exercise) of the day commences with Angie and Janet’s raffle, a fine selection of prizes on offer : two bottles of wine, a bottle of Lidl sangria and a tin of biscuits. Josey and Pat pick up the wine, Pob the Sangria, and Neil the biscuits (seeming more pleased with the tin that the contents).

A quick stop at Exeter to pick up L Plate and our new driver for the rest of the trip. Unfortunately, he does not introduce himself to us so we assume he is named Ray O’Sunshine on account of his humour level. As we pull out of Exeter, and grind to a virtual standstill for some bizarre reason (Ray couldn’t figure out which peddle is the accelerator), we realise this may not be such a splendid journey after all. Taunton services arrive and the much needed fag break. Even those of us who don’t smoke were tempted to light up after slaloming up the M5.

Underway again, and with ‘Saving Private Ryan’ on the video to cheer us all up, the second MGE gets underway – the sweepstake for tomorrows contest. With all 19 bands in the hat, and another 16 alongside to boost the prize fund, mixed reactions are received. Black Dyke and Leyland normally could give the holder a chance of some money, but not when they are not playing! Captian picks out a ticket with ‘…Building Society’ on, the missing word is … ‘Constantine’. St Austell, Bodmin, Illogan, Gweek and Morris Motors are all drawn out along with Cory and CWS Glasgow. With one ticket left, and YBS still in the bag, an auction commences, with the ticket eventually going to Timmy and Colonel for a £10 (will this be a shrewd investment?).

Fresh out of Taunton, we pull into Bristol Services for Ray to fill up with diesel, four and half hours to Bristol – now that’s progress! After a rather longer spell on the road, we stop for lunch at Reading, with Josey, Gavin and L Plate arriving back somewhat late from the amusements. Marcus, counting the missing numbers announces ‘we are waiting for four... Josey, L Plate and Gav..’.

On the road again, and the Camborne Band poker school opens for business. No piles of Vegas style chips here, but rather cigarette filters are the currency. The final hand is dealt with Josey and Barker going ‘all in’. Rob lays the ace and jack of clubs, Barker has two kings, over go the five cards, with Rob winning with a dramatic three jacks (now the proud owner of 115 filter tips).

Miraculously, we gain up time, and roll into the hotel car park (after two laps of the roundabout) bang on 4.30pm – fantastic itinerary planning. After a swim, steam room, sauna, and a spot of food, we prepare for rehearsal. Chris and Helen have brought two friends with them, and as we all squeeze into the compact rehearsal room, the temperature rises.

Other residents in the hotel look in amazement at the band rehearsing. One rather inebriated chap actually comes into the practise room, and applauds us once we have a short break. At around 8.15, we hear a rather ‘wild’ commotion outside, and shortly after Chris being re-assured that we can practise for as long as we want, we are told that we have to stop by 8.30. Apparently the hotel have been wise enough to house a family with a new born baby directly above our room. Our sympathy goes out to the family, but certainly not to the rather rude and abrasive assistant manageress, who seemed to forget that we were actually paying her and her hotel to stay there, not the other way around.

With a final run through finishing just after 8.30, Roy Netherton hollers ‘well done, lovely job’ as only he can. The luxury of the segmented pre-draw means that we can have a few ‘relaxers’ at the bar, safe in the knowledge that we will not be playing until at least 2.30pm. Over the road in the Foxes pub, a good crowd is gathering. Our very own celebrity – Woody’s dad (aka Bruce Forsyth) strikes a few poses for the camera, and generally everyone had a great time. Later on in the evening, back at the hotel bar, our new found number one supporter returns from a night out in Cambridge. Andre is from Bishop Stortford, and is on a stag weekend. He thinks we will win tomorrow, which we have a better chance than he does as he heads to Newmarket races.

Off we all head to bed for a good nights sleep, looking forward to a leisure start to the day.

WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO WOO.

At 4.30 am the fire alarm goes off. After people checking their phone, the TV to see if that is a wake up call (Ian even unplugged his) we head to the car park for a muster point. Chris Davis looked pristine as ever, Woody didn’t, and Squibby had the forethought to grab his camera for the Cambridge Gallery. The organisation of the hotel thrilled us once more, and we spot the rather un-amused family who were staying above the rehearsal room. One or two people were obviously so misguided that they headed to the kitchen as we spied several people wrapped in foil – no time for baked potatoes.

Just after the fire brigade arrive, we head back to bed. Some obviously forgot to get their room keys, but at least they remembered to pick up their cigarettes (what a shame if twenty Silk Cut had gone up in smoke!)

Sun 30th - The Day of Reckoning

Re-awaking at a more leisurely hour, one or two head off to the pool again, while the rest concentrate on the ‘all you can eat’ buffet for breakfast. After being evicted from last night’s rehearsal room, we take up residence in the Augusta room, overlooking the putting green of the adjoining golf course.

Short sectionals are the order of the day: 10.45 cornets; 11.00 horns and baritones; 11.25 baritones and euphs; 11.35 trombones and 11.45 basses.

At 11.15 the draw comes through and we will be playing number 8, at approximately half past two. After a quick full band pep talk from Chris, and a run of the finale, we board the coach to the ever constant happy whistling of driver Ray.

The Masters is one of the finest run contests you could wish to attend. With military precision, each band arrives, changes at the allotted time, plays, then is collected, and so it continues throughout the day. Word on the street is that it is like a furnace on stage, so water may be necessary to stay cool. Whilst the old ‘lick behind your ears trick’ works to stay cool, it is not awfully hygienic or pleasant to be frank. After changing, we get ourselves into the ‘zone’ and concentrate on the job in hand.

Eventually the call comes and we head across the road, and over to the stage door of the Cambridge Corn Exchange. Back stage at Cambridge, you can hear everything which the band in front plays, sometimes this can be encouraging, other times, downright depressing. We listen to Woodfalls tackle Harrison’s dream, and pop in and out of the holding area to gain the last gasps of fresh air.

Time To Play

Our West Country friends finish to a rapturous applause, and our stage setters prepare the decks. On we go, in the usual ‘scrum’ formation (I see no point in stressing everyone out before we play at a contest making sure that Jimmy is in front of Johnny, but behind Jeffrey), and put ourselves at ease. Yes it is hot, very hot, but at least we have a decent crowd in to hear us. Once Billy finally settles down, we have a bar for nothing, and we are off.

The opening goes well, with all the tricky fast demi-semis being rattled in. Everything seems to be going fairly well, a slight rock here and there, but generally solid. Chrissy N has a quick go at winning the solo prize with a stray entry, but it is in time, and I doubt the adjudicators will notice. Shaun plays a stormer on his solo, and we reach the slow movement unscathed. Nobby keeps the music dead straight, and the muted passage accompanying him works well. The kings of the band (trombones) are on form, and their chord sets the girlie (Squibby) up for a subtle A flat. The pace settles, and the stratospheric cornet part feels so easy. On to the bell section, with big and little Phil conjuring up a concatenation of bizarre sounds – most notably from the cello bow on the vibraphone. On to the recapitulation, and the cornets are solid again. The tricky back row part at X and Y are solid, and all too soon we approach the final muted section. With the cup muted cornets weaving in and out of the harmon muted back row, we head for the final chord. The last note grows and grows and grows, until Chris brings us off. He enjoyed it, we enjoyed it, we may not have found the true meaning of longitude, but we didn’t crash into the Isles of Scilly! Good show.

Back out into the sunshine, and the predictable after show analysis on the way to our photo opportunity. For ages Neil has shown his concern that we do not have a band photo with him in. Now we have, positioned in front of one of the superb Cambridge Colleges.

A quick dash back to the Guildhall changing rooms, and we load the bus then head for the pub. After hearing one or two bands play, some of the band return to the rest, who by now are revelling in the summer sunshine. A few more drinks later, and strains of Camborne Hill ring out across Cambridge, followed by three blind jellyfish, and other band bus favourites.

For those of us who were fortunate enough to hear YBS, we were treated to an exhibition in playing, some felt that Brighouse had the edge, but both were great. All too soon, Squibby had to go back stage to prepare for the presentation of awards. After a presentation to local lad John Berryman for all his services to brass banding, the results are announced:

Soloist award goes to : Euphonium with Brighouse

6th place goes to : Flowers

5th place goes to : Ransome

4th place goes to : Woodfalls

3rd place goes to : Ever Ready

2nd place goes to : Brighouse and Rastrict

Winners are : Yorkshire Building Society

A great day so far for two West of England Bands, but what about the two that really matter – Camborne and Mount Charles? Up in the results room, each band in draw order are presented with their remarks and placings. Camborne 16th, Mount Charles 18th. Disappointment for both bands – obviously we are storing our luck up for London.

Back on the coach, despite the disappointment of our placing, the Band seem in good spirits, and the reading of the remarks receives the usual non-stop banter. Chris Davis seems disappointed with the result – the long haired colonel (Helen his wife) felt we should have been in the top ten, but that is contesting for you.

The sweepstake winnings are promptly handed out: £20 to Timmy and Colonel for YBS, £10 to Colonel for Brighouse, £5 to Angie for Ever Ready, and £10 to Vicky for Besses in last place.

Back at the hotel, we quickly change, then head across the road, or up to the bar for some refreshment. On the way to the pub, Neil appears, seeming somewhat displeased. We left him and Louise behind in Cambridge, and a £15 taxi ride later, he was yet to see the funny side of it. Sat outside the pub, Chris was in good spirits, and the idea for him to bring Otterbourne to Bugle next year was taken seriously and he hope to see them there.

After treating Helen to a slap up meal (sandwiches from Tesco) they head off to the hotel, while the rest of us dodge the drunken West Ham fans, male and female. One particularly drunken blond haired lady, bumps into Josey, calling him Mr Businessman, he seems quite pleased with this, particularly when she changes her statement to Mr Sexy Businessman. Back to the hotel, and a surprising few are back in the bar. Woody seems to have had his fair share, L plate is on his second wind, and Graham seems to be wearing quite well. Neil has jollied up, at least we didn’t leave him in Reading and head for home as we did to a certain Mr Barker a few years ago. The last man standing hit the sack at around 3.30am, tomorrow we have the delight of the ever jolly Ray O’Sunshine driving us home.

Mon 31st - Homeward Bound

After another hearty breakfast, we all say farewell to Chris, Helen, and their friends as they head for relatively near Portsmouth, while we endure the non-stop comedy of Ray O’Sunshine all the way home. Neil is continually ragged about missing the bus, however he is good enough to supply us with ‘Ice Age’ and ‘Lee Evans Live’ to while away the hours. Euchre is the name of the game at the back of the bus today, and Gordano services seem to arrive rather quickly. Everyone back on the bus at a sensible time, and we head for Exeter where we say farewell to L Plate. It is so impressive the amount of miles which he puts in to play in the band, and is very much appreciated by all of us.

We pull into Launceston, where we say our fond farewell to driver Ray, and the boss of the coach company takes over (a new clutch and gearbox must have also been fitted at this point as the coach all of a sudden seems a lot smoother). Queens looms on the horizon, however Graham cannot find his bag (which his good lady wife was supervising for him) or his shoes (not a clue where they were). Thank heavens for Narelle, or he would never make it up in the mornings. As we pull into the bandroom car park, we are greeted by rain, drizzle and mist. Quickly emptying the bus, we head off home to reflect on the weekend which was Cambridge 2004.

Jeremy Squibb