Oz band to join the brass fest?

Reporter: KEN BENNETT
Date published: 28 May 2015


A brass band from Down Under may march into view at tomorrow’s Saddleworth Whit Friday band contests.

The City of Traralgon Brass Band, from Victoria, has UK connections as several members are believed to have played with brass bands in the North-West.

In a note to Phil Beckwith, a brass band tour organiser from Delph, the band stated: “ We believe we will be the first Australian band to play at the contest, which will be very exciting.”

Mr Beckwith said: “I believe 50 bandsmen and followers may be attending but we are still waiting for final confirmation.”

Meantime, Robert Rodgers, chairman of the Delph contest and co-ordinator of the central group of contests, said up to 130 bands are expected to compete in the marathon event.

He said:” It will another coup in the fact we are reliably informed the Australian band would be complete with Kangaroo mascots. “But we are looking forward to a busy evening at all 11 contests with at least three European bands.”

Fruitigen and Detlingen from Switzerland and Asenhoga from Sweden will add their class to the evening’s proceedings and help with the church processions.

The Swedish band played in the Saddleworth contests the last time their country won the Eurovision Song Contest.

Mr Rodgers added: “Black Dyke will no doubt be parading their treble championship trophies.

“And that will add to the talents of our country’s other championship bands and all the regular bands that play every year. It provides great entertainment for the vast crowds.”

The three European bands will appear in concert on Saturday night at Uppermill civic hall.

Contact Phil Beckwith for tickets and information: 07976 165815.

email: kd_bennett@yahoo.co.uk