That was a year, that was…

2022 was an interesting year for the band.

After the disruption caused by Covid we were eventually able to begin rehearsing and performing again.

Among our significant performances during the year were:

Taking part in the Provincial Brass Band Association’s day at Riverside in Christchurch where a number of bands performed across the river from the Terraces entertainment hub.

Performing at Sumner’s Anzac Day service (one of the few that was not cancelled because of Covid fears)

Entering the Canterbury Provincial Brass Band Contest with a particularly challenging programme. Preparing for the contest under the direction of John Mason the band learnt a great deal and perfected a number of pieces which now form part of our constantly evolving repertoire.

In October we were at last able to play at the much-postponed Governors Bay fete at Allandale.

To end the year we took part in many Christmas performances over the festive season.

During 2022 we also had a change of Musical Director, saying farewell to John Mason who had led us up to the Provincial Contest and welcoming Victoria van Uden.

The photograph shows Victoria conducting the band in her first performance as Musical Director - at Governors Bay in October - being ably assisted by her daughter.