Besses o' th' Barn Band

On Saturday night, Besses o' th' Barn played at Padiham Unitarian Church.

From the band's point of view, it was truly wonderful to have a full church to play to, and to be so warmly received by everyone.

The audience survived MD James Holt's relentless announcements that he had "come prepared" (encouraging the audience to purchase Besses merchandise) and were repsonsive in all the right ways.

The programme covered staples of the brass band repertoire, alongside some jazz and some funk, and some superb solos.

A heartfelt tribute was played for Dr Roy Newsome, who sadly passed away a few weeks ago, in playing one of his own arrangements.

Massive thanks go to everyone that made it possible for the concert to happen, to the audience and to the few deps who sat in for the band.

Padiham - you were great! We hope to be back there very soon!

I've sadly been informed this morning of the passing of our Musical Advisor, Dr Roy Newsome. Roy had been very ill for some time, and died this morning at home, surrounded by his family. He was 81.

Over the past two years Roy has guided Besses with music, training, and his vast experience, leading to our Fleetwood win last year. He was a pleasure to work with, and always gave his time willingly for a band that remained dear to his heart.

It has been a pleasure to work with and learn from such a legendary figure. I know from conversations at the time how delighted he was to see Besses back in winning ways, and even as recently as a few weeks ago expressed his pleasure that the band was attracting new players and positively rebuilding.

Next year is the 30th Anniversary of our last British Open win, directed by Dr Roy. During his years with Besses, the band won many major titles and were at the forefront of banding. Our gratitude for his work with the band can never be fully put into words.

Our thoughts at this time go to his wife Muriel, their sons and family.

I'm sure you'll all join me in expressing our gratitude and heartfelt thanks.

Yours,

Matt Bailey,
Chairman - Besses o' th' Barn Band

Our next concert is this coming saturday night, the 24th September 2011.

We are performing at the Church of St John the Divine in Sale with the Meadway Choirs.

The concert starts at 7.30pm. We hope you can join us.

After that we are performing in St Margaret's Church in  Prestwich for a Night at the Proms, on Saturday October 22nd 2011.

Thanks to everyone who has come out to support Besses this weekend.

Our concert on Friday night at Victoria Halls in Bolton was in aid of BRASS (Befriending Refugees and Asylum Seekers).

In Whitefield Methodist Church this afternoon, we performed alongside Affetside choir for our Summer Brass and Voices concert.

The band thoroughly enjoyed both concerts and big thanks go to everyone who helped to make them happen.