In the band’s 40th year, Uppermill band are the one clear winning band in the National Brass Band Finals last weekend.
Uppermill Band represented the North West in the Third Section National Brass Band Finals. After many hours of hard work on the set test-piece “Viking Age” the band arrived in Cheltenham for the National Finals confident and keen to produce a performance to be proud of. This was only their sixth national finals appearance since Uppermill Band was formed in 1979 and an eagerly awaited highlight of this 40th Anniversary year.
Uppermill Band are the Champions!
Band Secretary, Katie Woodward, attended the contest draw and Uppermill Band were drawn to play number 5 in a field of 18 bands who had qualified from across Great Britain. Musical Director, Dean Redfern, led the band onto the stage and directed an outstanding performance which was later to be described by the three adjudicators as full of atmosphere, tenderness and one that demonstrated excellent control of dynamics. Uppermill Band were thrilled with their performance and it was a long wait until the results were announced at the end of the contest, over 5 hours later.
Adjudicator, Paul Holland, summarised the contest and explained, in the opinion of the adjudicators, there was “one clear winning band”. After a tense few moments Uppermill Band and their supporters in the hall erupted on the announcement that the National Third Section Champions for 2019 was the band that played number five – Uppermill Band.
Dean Redfern and John Ward – MD and Chairman of Uppermill Band receiving the trophy
Uppermill Band Chairman, John Ward, said; “What a fantastic result and in the Bands 40th Anniversary year too, the best ever result for Uppermill Band. Those anxious moments prior to the announcement and then hearing National 3rd Sections Champions ‘Uppermill’ is a moment to be treasured. Preparation and team work was the key, everyone has worked so hard in the lead up and gave an excellent performance on the day under the direction of our MD, Dean Redfern. The result was so richly deserved for ‘Team Uppermill’. Just so very proud of this fantastic achievement.”
This result is the pinnacle of Uppermill Band’s 40 year history and there is a great deal to celebrate. Uppermill Band would like to take the opportunity to thank everyone who has supported them during this year and made it possible to bring the 3rd Section National Championship trophy back to Saddleworth and particularly to our home town of Uppermill.
Uppermill Band Musical Director, Dean Redfern said:
“Viking Age was a beautiful piece of music which allowed us to play a very musical rendition. I am so proud of all the players who delivered a stunning performance. It is a real privilege to conduct this band.”
