16/17th October 2004
Mackworth United Reformed Church,
Enfield Road
Derby
Get-together weekend:
Our annual weekend took place at Mackworth United Reformed Church, Derby who kindly offered accommodation in their church hall. We were very grateful to Revd Brian Norris, David Greatorex and members of the church for making all the arrangements and looking after us so well.
Around 45 members attended on the Saturday which began with a massed band rehearsal.
Following
lunch, we all made our way into Derby city centre (temporarily losing a few
members on the way - but who eventually reached it OK!). Here we gave a concert
in a marquee on the Market Place to a good audience.
After this, it was on to the Megabowl for an hour's 10-pin bowling. The Association AGM (see report below) also took place here – in a cafe accompanied by pop music and a children's birthday party!!
Following the evening meal at Mackworth URC, the band gave a short concert to church members before the majority left for home.
Members of the 2nd Eastleigh band stayed overnight and joined in the morning service, along with David Greatorex and Iain McIntyre, playing for the hymns. With the conductor playing an instrument, the minister, Brian Norris conducted both the service and the band!
All in all, a hectic but successful weekend enjoyed by all those taking part.
Our thanks are also due to McDonalds, Derby for their support during the weekend.
2004 AGM brief report:
The full minutes of the meeting are being circulated to members. Here is a brief account of plans for the future:
Band Training Weekend
(19 March
2005)
A band leaders/seniors music arranging/conducting weekend has been planned
for the weekend of 19 March 2005 at Chandlers Ford.
Legoland visit
(Summer 2005)
There is a possibility of the massed bands playing at Legoland next year.
The Secretary is waiting to hear back from Legoland.
Next Get-together weekend
Halifax Battalion have expressed an interest in hosting this in October 2005. John McIntyre will investigate.
Please Note: Since the meeting – Halifax will not be hosting the 2005 event,
but may be able to host a weekend in October 2006. The 2005 weekend has been
postponed until Spring 2006.
Lord Mayor's Show,
London (November 2005)
Bands are asked to investigate the possibility of a national band performing
in this event in November next year. This is a mid- morning to mid-afternoon
marching event on the Saturday of the Remembrance weekend.
Please Note: Since the meeting – Unfortunately
it was not possible to arrange this.
Training event (2006)
The President and John McIntyre will investigate the possibility of a
training weekend. Sq Ldr David Compton, Director of Music, RAF, has indicated
there may be a possibility of holding this at RAF Cranwell. Failing this, DCAE
Cosford will be approached.
