The band are still buzzing after returning to the Connaught Gardens after an absence of nearly 2 years! We weren’t sure how big an audience there would be, as the last 18 months will have changed people’s habits, and we know some people are still wary of being out with others. However, Sidmouth didn’t disappoint! A wonderfully appreciative audience showed their support from the first piece to the last, and it was truly fantastic to be back performing for a live audience once again. Initial nerves (would the lips last? would the uniforms still fit?) quickly dispersed, and it felt as though we had never been away. The programme was upbeat and light-hearted, though there was one poignant moment when our principal cornet, Fiona, played Philip Harper’s “A Little Star Went Out”, for all of those who have lost their own “stars” during these difficult times. Three players, Mark and Dylan on cornet, and Jamie on percussion made their debuts, and did a brilliant job. Our lips just about lasted for the full programme and we can’t wait to be back next Sunday, with an entirely different programme of music.
If you want to hear the band before Sunday, we will be performing at the opening of the Folk Festival on Saturday 31st July, at 12pm at the Ham.