WHAT A START TO THE SEASON!
19th June, under the brand new permanent roof, on a perfect sunny afternoon, the season began in style with CLASSICS AND CHOIRS. This was a very special opportunity for local primary children to rehearse and then sing in public, accompanied by professional musicians. This chance was offered to four local schools, and over 130 children from Coalway Junior and St Briavels C of E Primary took part. Resources were provided by our partners Water City Music, and the teachers rehearsed the children during the weeks before the concert. Michael Bochmann MBE and Sam Davis, conductor and Pastor of Coleford Baptist Church went to each school for a final rehearsal, and to give the children some tips on performance technique. 150 people turned up to watch the performance; the first half was a stunning concert by Michael Bochmann (violin,) Adam Khan (classical guitar), Herbie Dixon (violin) and Isla Fujioka (cello). Herbie and Isla are only 10 years older than the children, and an inspiration in what can be achieved with dedication, talent and practise. Only a sprinkling of children turned up for the performance, but they did themselves proud with a spirited rendition of their prepared repertoire, singing superbly. Both voices and instruments sounded very good under the brand new roof. Huge thanks go to our partners for this event: Water City Music, Wye Valley Music and Sam Davis, and to our generous sponsors St Briavels Parish Council and Edenwall Masonic Lodge.
The following weekend we held the Official Opening of the Roof – a chance to welcome everyone who had donated, and offer our thanks and appreciation for their support – and share a glass of bubbly. Sue Middleton MBE, Verderer and member of Friends of Scarr Bandstand gave a speech, and unveiled a plaque listing the donors, which was then attached to the side of the Bandstand. The ribbon was cut by Tamsin Sagar, Forestry England Ranger and long-time supporter of the Bandstand, and the roof was declared officially opened. Just in time for…
RISING STARS, our annual celebration of the new generation of brass band players. Lydbrook, Lydney and Ross Training Bands were joined by Kingsley Brass, playing at the Scarr Bandstand for the very first time. Their youngest player is just 6 years old. As always, the bands played a selection of great music, and the afternoon was concluded by a Massed Band of 42 players, with all four conductors taking a turn. Our thanks go to all the wonderful players and conductors, especially Kevin Ford for liaising with the bands. Our thanks also goes to Forest of Dean Lions who generously sponsored this event.
And….. there are still six more great events to come!
