Blackpool 2008
Trev's Reflections.

I am pleased to say that in my four years of conducting the Band at Blackpool, this was the best we had ever played - it really was a case of peaking at the right moment - had the contest been even a day earlier, I don't think we would have played so well.
Tuning was excellent - ensemble was tight, and everyone kept their playing disciplined and controlled - no overblowing at all. Vicky Day turned in a stunning performance of her Solo, and it was good to see this acknowledged in the contest review on the 4 bars rest website.
To be honest, I was therefore disappointed with 7th place. Even though we gained a trophy as the Band with the Most Potential - remember many bands went home with nothing! But with 13 players out of 36 playing at Blackpool for the first time, we certainly do have potential for the future, and we should not be too down about the result.
Looking back, we had a fortunate win in 2006, and have been hard done to ever since, so perhaps we are due another slice of luck in 2009. Luck has to be earned however, and I think we have earned some luck with two very good programmes and performances in 2007 and 2008.
What frustrates me most of all is our failure to make an impression on the Music judge - in the four years, we have never finished higher than 8th for Music. This year he wanted more variety in our programme to show off more aspects of the Bands style - I think our programme of music was varied this year, despite there only being three pieces. It was certainly innovative - no other Band has ever evacuated the Stage and sung in the auditorium!
I loved the weekend - the social atmosphere at the Hotel was great, and I felt proud of every single player throughout the weekend. The future of the Band is very positive - I seriously believe we can win this contest next year, and with the help of players and parents we will give it our best shot - ideas for music, themes, scenery and costumes are very welcome.

Roll on Rouen!!!

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