In its first foray into the competition for more than two decades, Manx Concert Brass enjoyed a trip to the UK for the iconic Whit Friday band contests.
Under the direction of Ian Clague MBE, the band played in four different villages in Saddleworth and picked up prizes in all four of them.
Thousands of spectators lined the streets in villages across the region for the unique celebration of brass band music, which attracted more than 120 bands from the UK, Europe and even one from Victoria in Australia.
Manx Concert Brass
Each band had a tight schedule as they travelled from village to village, performing a street march followed by a contest piece at each location – all in a bid to impress the judges and take home a share of the prizes.
And impress they did with Manx Concert Brass awarded a first, second and two third places in the first section contests in Lees & Springhead, Lydgate, Greenfield and Scouthead & Austerlands respectively.
The triumph in Lees was particularly memorable as long-standing musical adviser and friend Derek Broadbent, who composed the march “Centaur” that was played by the band, was present to watch the performance.
Saddleworth Success
Band chairman Stephen Maddocks said it was a super weekend: “Saddleworth 2025 truly demonstrated what brass banding is all about. There was such a buzz as the bands dashed from contest to contest with their instruments.
“To perform in front of thousands of spectators generated a real party atmosphere and a great sense of camaraderie and celebration.
“You can see why the organisers call it the greatest free musical show on earth because it brings the community together and you could tell those taking part or watching for the first time were blown away by the size of the crowds.
“The standard of playing was impressive and it was obvious the bands had given a lot of thought about the presentation and their performances of their marches.
Looking Ahead
Stephen added: “Of course, this would not have been possible without our supporters, family and friends of the band, who turned out in force and the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company which helped us with our travel arrangements for which we are extremely grateful.
“Naturally it was great to feature in the prizes and a real feather in the cap to enjoy success and a top three finish in our section in every venue we played – in one contest we even managed to be placed ahead of the great Black Dyke Band and they finished second in the overall placings so that was a big confidence boost.
“We now look forward to a busy summer programme, including our gala concert at the Villa Marina on July 12 and, first up, a concert at the Villa Arcade next Thursday evening (June 26).”
Onchan Silver Band also made the trip to the Whit Friday competition and played in 10 villages, picking up two first places in the fourth section (at Greenfield and Heyrod) along the way, ensuring even more success for Manx bands in the north-west.
5 Comments