The Melbourne Staff Band got the start of the ISB120 celebrations off to a flying start at Sheffield Citadel on the 25th May. Fresh from their arrival in the UK only the day before, the Band received a Civic Reception at Sheffield Town Hall where they were greeted by the Lord Mayor of Sheffield, before taking part in an open air concert in the Sheffield Peace Gardens. Many people sat & listened to the Band as they performed a varied programme of music and many contacts were made with the people of Sheffield.
In the evening the MSB presented the first festival of their UK tour to a capacity crowd at Sheffield Citadel, under the leadership of Bandmaster Ken Waterworth. The Band’s music included: The Ellacombe Chronicles (James Curnow) – the inspiration behind the title of the Band’s new CD “Chronicles”; Atonement (Roger Trigg) – which incorporates Australian melodies alongside well-known hymns; I’m in His Hands (arr. Brian Hogg) – featuring the Band’s trombone section. Excellent solo items were presented by Principal Euphonium player Jamie Smith and vocalist Rebecca Raymond.
The finale section of the programme consisted of a lively & captivating choreographed presentation of music and song which enthralled the audience, who were led to a standing ovation for the Band. The Band’s energetic & entertaining rendition of the William Tell overture, followed by a benediction concluded the Band’s programme.
It was a fantastic evening of music, fellowship and worship and one which will certainly prove to be a lasting memory for many months and years to come.
