News

Ben McLeod, pictured here, has been awarded “Best Brass Player” at the recent 2005 SE QLD Salvation Army’s Divisional School Music Camp by Major Earl Ivers from the Carina Band Corps.

Congratulations, Ben!!

Brisbane Excelsior Band accept invitation to the 2006 All England Masters International.

The official press release from the Event Organisers reads:

Following the initial invitations to compete in the 2006 event sent out to the eighteen bands who took part in the 2005 All England Masters International, an invitation was despatched to the 2005 Champion Band of Australia, Brisbane Excelsior.

The organisers of the All England International are delighted to announce that Brisbane have now confirmed that they will be competing in Cambridge on 28th May, when the test-piece is Paganini Variations.

Commenting on Brisbane’s confirmation to compete at the 2006 All England Masters International, Band President Rick Casagrande said “The Brisbane Excelsior Band is honoured and extremely excited to have been invited to compete in this prestigious event. The opportunity to compete is certainly a highlight amongst what has already been a very successful 3 years, under the Musical Direction of Howard Taylor. We will do our utmost to ensure that Australia is represented at the highest level.”

This news is a major boost for the organisers and one that will make the event even more International.

Philip Biggs
www.thebrassherald.com

Steve and Jo Pell are moving abroad to the gorgeous city of Bilboa, Spain. In a move which has been predictible for several years now, Steve will continue his work as Business Development Manager for the Schneider company Nu-lec, whilst Jo will be tutoring English conversation to local children and employees of the company Mesa (also a Schnieder company). Steve will be greatly missed in our Euphonium/Baritone line up but we are hopeful that this talented couple will return to Brisbane in the not too distant future. Good luck to you both and stay in touch via ausbrass.com!!

XLCR at the Buderim Ginger Factory

Saturday 25 June, saw Brisbane Excelsior head north to the Township of Yandina for the opening of a new feature ride at the Buderim Ginger Factory. Prepared for a march and short concert, the band were faced with a ‘March with a difference’.

For 15 minutes, the band meandered its way through the Sunshine Coast tourist attraction, carefully negotiating its away across train tracks and garden beds.

This was followed by a journey through the site seated on the tourist tram. Later in the day, the band gave a short concert accompanied by the gingerbread man!!

It was a great, fun day and the band is hopeful of returning to the Buderim Ginger Factory within the next 12 months.