Blazing Sounds marks 30th anniversary in Ilfracombe
PAST and present members of the Blazing Sounds band have gathered to celebrate its 30th anniversary in Ilfracombe. They gathered at Ilfracombe Rugby Club to mark the occasion with a celebration party and the annual band awards ceremony.
PAST and present members of the Blazing Sounds band have gathered to celebrate its 30th anniversary in Ilfracombe.
They gathered at Ilfracombe Rugby Club to mark the occasion with a celebration party and the annual band awards ceremony.
The long and successful history of the Ilfracombe and District Youth Band - aka Blazing Sounds - is a tribute to the hard work and dedication of the late Leslie Perrin who founded the band in 1979 and served as Bandmaster for 25 years.
Les passed away in March last year after a short illness but his legacy lives on and his family continue to be part of the fabric of the band - son Neil is current band president and his widow Ann joined the band for their 30th anniversary celebration.
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Generations of North Devon youngsters have grown up with Blazing Sounds, playing at numerous events locally and further afield.
Over the years, the band has won many awards in band competitions at home and abroad, including Germany, Belgium and Canada.
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In Devon they have joined carnival processions and Christmas parades, as well as entertaining holiday visitors with marching displays on Ilfracombe seafront. This year, they have played in the Ilfracombe bandstand on Thursday evenings throughout the summer season.
Presenting the awards at the 30th party was current bandmaster, Emma Nottage, who said that playing in a band offered children a wonderful opportunity to develop their skill and self confidence, while at the same time making new friends and contributing to the cultural life of their community.
Awards included Stan Barnes (30 years of service,) Becky Oscroft (most improved player,) Charlie Haynes (most regular attendance,) Cathryn Manning (musician of the year.)
The band is always on the look out for new members - brass players, woodwind or percussion - and would like to hear from anyone who is interested in finding out more. Call Emma Nottage on 07805 387473 or email IDYB@btinternet.com.
