© 2012 MBS

JANUARY 2012

 

Well what a busy run-in to Christmas with the band getting together eight times in eleven days to help bring in the festive celebrations.   The first outing was in our home town where we joined with the local community to see the Christmas lights switched on.  The following days saw us attend the LOL District Carol Service also in Maguiresbridge followed by services in Irvinestown and Lisbellaw Presbyterian Churches, Maguiresbridge Methodist Church and Aghavea parish church.  Although it was a hectic period it was a pleasure to be asked to be part of services in so many communities and our thanks go to all who made us feel so welcome.

Our final gathering of 2011 saw the now annual visit of Mr Claus to our hall.  The evening started with our youth learners playing some pieces for the senior members after which a loud knock at the door heralded the arrival of the man in the red suit.  Following the distribution of some goodies to the younger members we all enjoyed some ‘not so festive’ food in the form of a Chinese banquet.  This went down really well and thanks must go to Andy Knox who had the job of collating the various requests before devising a menu that would suit all tastes.

With all suitably satisfied in the food department we then had our annual presentation of Band awards.  Ian Kells introduced proceedings and gave a résumé of the band year.  He highlighted the continued fantastic attendance records with numerous members attending the vast majority of our 46 rehearsals and 28 outings.  He had a special word for the new section of learners commenting on the help given by parents in ensuring their prompt regular attendance.

The awards were then announced with one change from previous years in the ‘Bandsperson’ of the year section with every member voting for the person they thought most deserving.  The results were:-

Senior player of the year – Robin Downey

Junior player of the year – Rebecca Beacom/Kelly Beacom

Beat attendance –  Andy Knox/Kelly Beacom

Best section – Percussion

Bandsperson of the year – Andy Knox/Ian kells

Following some banter and chat our banding year came to a close and we all now look forward to a busy 2012!!

 

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Group photo of the band from the prize giving night.   G