DISAPPOINTING RESULT IN FIFE (20.4.08)
The Band was placed a disappointing 6th in the 1st section at the Fife Brass Band Festival in Dunfermline on 19 April.  Although the Band put in a good performance, St. Ronan's was up against a strong field of bands.  Adjudicator, Stan Lippeat, gave some constructive criticism as well as many encouraging comments and praise.  Full result:

“It has been a very busy and eventful year since the Band’s win at last year’s Scottish Championships,” explained Band Secretary Keith Belleville.  “Everyone has been working really hard under Alex and David Robb, the Bandmaster, and we just want to do our best for the town as we make a wee bit of history for Innerleithen,” he said.

A GUID NEW YEAR (29.12.07)
The Band will be out and about from 9.00am on New Year's Day when they will march round the streets of the town.  This will be followed by appearances in some of the pubs and clubs to wish everyone "A Guid New Year!"

CHRISTMAS CONCERT (5.12.07)

A feast of seasonal music is on offer from St. Ronan's Silver Band at the annual Christmas Concert to be held in Innerleithen's Memorial Hall on Saturday 15 December at 7.30pm.  The concert will feature an exciting selection of pieces from the Band's repertoire, including a host of Christmas favourites.  The Band, recently crowned entertainment kings of the Borders for a fifth time, will also present a clutch of numbers that impressed judges at the Borders Entertainment contest last month.  The Future Band will also make a welcome appearance in the programme.  Tickets cost £5.00 (£4.00 concessions) can be obtained from Adam's Bakery in Innerleithen, Robb’s KeyStore, Eastgate in Peebles, by ringing 01896 831721 or email. There will be a bar available at the concert.

FOURTH IN CHALLENGE SHIELD (25.11.07)
The Band has been placed fourth in the Scottish Challenge Shield held in the Perth Concert Hall on Saturday 24 November.  This is a very satisfying result for the Band and paves the way for its journey into the first section.  The Band was conducted by David Robb, as Musical Director Alex Knox is currently recovering from an operation and all of the members are really grateful to David for stepping in to lead the Band.  The full result:

1. Clackmannan District, 190
2. Bo’ness & Carriden, 185
3. Arbroath Instrumental, 184
4. St. Ronan’s Silver, 182
5. Jedforest Instrumental, 181
6. Lochgelly, 180
7. Selkirk Silver, 178
8. Tullis Russell Mills, 175

ST. RONAN’S TO DEBUT IN CHALLENGE SHIELD (21.11.07)
St. Ronan’s Silver Band is set to take part in the Scottish Challenge Shield to be held in the Perth Concert Hall on Saturday 24 November.  This exciting venue opened its doors to the public in 2005 and boasts an impressive 1,200 seat auditorium.  The Band has qualified for this contest for the first time, following its win at the Scottish Championships in March.

Following on from the Band’s success at the recent Borders Entertainment Contest, the members have been busy rehearsing the test-piece for the Perth event.  The Band will be under the direction of Bandmaster David Robb on this occasion due to Musical Director, Alex Knox, being admitted to hospital for an emergency operation.  "We are saddened that Alex is not able to conduct on Saturday, but wish him a speedy recovery.  The Band is very fortunate to have such an able musician as David Robb to lead us at this contest and we are looking forward to a good day in Perth," said Band Secretary, Keith Belleville.

The day after the main band’s participation in the Scottish Shield, the St. Ronan’s Future Band will take part in the Scottish Youth Championships in the same venue.  Bandmaster David Robb will lead the young ensemble as they compete in the Development Section.

After Saturday’s contest, the Band will turn its thoughts to Christmas with events such as the Festive Lights Switch-on (Sunday 9 December) and the annual Christmas Concert (Saturday 15 December).

PERSONNEL CHANGES (8.11.07)
The Band is delighted to confirm the appointment of Ross Brotherston as Principal Cornet.  Ross is a very fine young player and the Band is very pleased that he has accepted this position.  Ian Aitchison moves to the bumper-up seat with Max Giegerich moving to fourth solo cornet while he sets out on his degree course at Edinburgh University.  This leaves a vacancy on soprano cornet and the Band would welcome applications to fill this exciting position - click here for further info.

BAND RETAINS ENTERTAINMENT CROWN (3.11.07)
The Band has retained the title of the "Borders' most entertaining band" while gaining third place over all to secure high marks for their technical and musical ability. Adjudicators Chris Wormald and Craig Anderson praised the band for their performance while also providing very useful comments to help the band attain even higher standards in their pursuit of musical quality, under Alex Knox. Andrew Campbell, the entertainment adjudicator, placed the band ahead of the eleven other ensembles to award St. Ronan's with the entertainment prize for the fifth time out of seven contests, re-affirming the band's place as entertainment kings of the Borders.

The contest was won by Johnstone Band, under Raymond Tennant, who shone as a real force to be reckoned with in the Memorial Hall.

Meanwhile, St. Ronan's Future Band wowed the audiences with their programme in the event's first ever youth and development section, gaining a Gold award under conductor, David Robb.

The full result:

First Prize:  The Scottish Borders Trophy & £150 : Johnstone Band
Entertainment Prize : The Queen’s Head Inn Shield & £150 :  St. Ronan’s Silver Band
Best First Section Band:  The Caerlee Quaich & £100 :  Lochgelly Band
Best Second Section Band:  The Souter Ronnie Trophy & £100 : Johnstone Band
Best Third Section Band:  The John A. Wilson Memorial Trophy & £100 :  Annan Town (APD) Band
Best Fourth Section Band:  The Harry Pearce Memorial Trophy & £100 : Brass Sounds Inverclyde
Best Soloist: The Walter Nichol Memorial Trophy & Medal : Cornet Player with Northumbrian Water Ellington Colliery Band
Best Instrumentalist : The Jedforest Instrumental Band 150^th Anniversary Trophy & Medal : Soprano Cornet player with Croy
Best Basses : The Bert Neil Memorial Quaich : Johnstone Band
Best Percussion : The Jenny Corbett Memorial Cup : Johnstone Band 

YOUTH & DEVELOPMENT SECTION  Adjudicator: Iain Fleming
Abbey Brass (Jedforest) – J. Mabon – Gold Award
Beltane Brass (Peebles) – D. T. Ward – Silver Award
St. Ronan’s Future Band – D. Robb – Gold Award

BUSY NOVEMBER FOR THE BAND (21.10.07)
Following on from the Band's participation in the National Finals, the members are busy working towards the Borders Entertainment Contest which will be held in Innerleithen on Saturday 3 November.  The contest is returning to the Memorial Hall after a gap of four years during which time it has been held in Jedburgh and Selkirk...  Later in the month the Band will be appearing for the first time in the Scottish Shield Contest in the new Perth Concert Hall.  Band members and supporters will make the trip to "The Fair City" on Saturday 24 November with St. Ronan's Future Band making the same journey the next day for the Scottish Youth Championships.

THIRTEENTH PLACE AT NATIONALS (1.10.07)
The Band was placed 13th in the Second Section National Brass Band Finals of Great Britain in Harrogate on Sunday.  The Band played a solid performance of the test-piece and everyone felt satisfied that they had done their best.  "Four years ago, the band was placed in the same position in the third section finals and went on to build on this to establish itself in the second section," explained Band Secretary, Keith Belleville.  "Our aim now is to use the experience from Harrogate to take the Band forward," he added.  The Band is now looking forward to taking part in the Borders Entertainment Contest which will be held in Innerleithen's Memorial Hall on Saturday 3 November, followed by the Scottish Shield Contest in Perth three weeks later on 24 November.

Full result from Harrogate:

1. Newbridge (Celynen), Paul Holland, 3, 189
2. Beaumaris B, Gwyn Evans, 8, 186
3. Phoenix West Midlands Brass, David Maplestone, 13, 184
4. Wakefield Metropolitan, Norman Law, 10, 183
5. Kippax, Alan Morrison, 16, 181
6. Wardle and Anderson District Brass, Sean Conway, 2, 180
7. Portishead Brass, Ian Dickinson, 11, 179
8. Wansbeck's Ashington Colliery, Nigel Stedman, 14, 178
9. Blackpool Brass, Andrew Warriner, 6, 177
10. Ocean Brass, Ivan Hutchinson, 15, 176
11. Egham, G. Green, 7, 175
12. Granite City, Tom Paulin, 12, 174
13. St Ronan's Silver, Alex Knox, 9, 173
14. Cawston, Colin Swaep, 1, 172
15. Harborough, Chris Groom, 4, 171
16. Cockerton Prize Silver, G. Nicklin, 5, 170


FINAL COUNTDOWN TO HARROGATE (26.9.07)
The final countdown has begun to the Band's participation in the 2nd Section National Brass Band Finals of Great Britain in Harrogate on Sunday 30 September.  The band has upped its rehearsals over the last few days; two very productive and inspiring sessions were led by Steven Mead at the weekend and rehearsals are continuing this week under Musical Director, Alex Knox.  The Band was even featured on Border TV's Lookaround programme on Tuesday.  Bandmaster David Robb and youngest member playing in the finals, David Tait, were interviewed and the Band played a few bars of the test-piece, much to the delight of Lookaround presenter, Lindsey Archibald.  The Band sets out on Saturday at noon for the long-waited trip to Harrogate.  As well as the players there are another forty supporters travelling by bus and car to hear the Band in action.

ST. RONAN’S SILVER BAND TO REPRESENT SCOTLAND (17.9.07)
The members of St. Ronan’s Silver Band from Innerleithen are set to represent Scotland at the National Brass Band Finals of Great Britain on Sunday (30 September).  The Band qualified for the finals when they won the Scottish 2nd Section Championships in Dundee in March.

This will be the Band’s third appearance at the finals in eight years The competition is being held in the International Conference Centre, Harrogate and will feature the finalists from the eight “regions” across the UK, including bands from England, Wales and Scotland

The Band will play the set test-piece, “Toccata, Elegy and Scherzo” by Darrol Barry in the 2nd Section finals – this being the highest level that the Band will ever have played at.  St. Ronan’s will be led on the contest platform by Musical Director, Alex Knox, who, along with Bandmaster, David Robb, has steered the band through an intensive rehearsal schedule over recent weeks.

The trip has cost over £5,000 to finance and the Band has had to work hard to raise this money.  Band secretary Keith Belleville said: “the Band has been very lucky indeed to have had the support of the local community in raising a good proportion of necessary funds,” he said.

The Band’s success over recent years is attributed to the hard-work and commitment of players and conductors and the pro-active youth policy is also seen as an important contributing factor.  “Many of today’s players are the product of our youth programme and we’re very proud of that,” Keith said.  In fact, playing in his first-ever contest will be 3^rd cornet player, 12 year-old David Tait.

For the future, the Band has promotion to the first section to look forward to.  “This will be the first time that the band will have competed at this level, but we are just looking forward to the challenge and taking things one step at a time,” explained Keith.  The Band has gradually risen from the fourth section to the first, since it re-commenced contesting in 1995.  Prior to this, there had been a period of decline and the Band was threatened with closure only 20 years ago.  The Band is now very well-known for its concert, contest and marching performances throughout the Borders.

Before the journey to Harrogate, the Band is due to perform a concert on Saturday (22 September, Memorial Hall, Innerleithen, 7.30pm) alongside top-section Scottish Champions, Kirkintilloch, and euphonium soloist, Steven Mead - see below.

COUP FOR BAND AS STEVEN MEAD COMES TO TOWN (1.9.07)
St. Ronan’s Silver Band is delighted to announce that current Scottish Champions, The Kirkintilloch Band will perform a joint concert on Saturday 22 September in the Memorial Hall, Innerleithen at 7.30pm. And in a fantastic coup for music lovers in the Borders, the Innerleithen Band has also secured the services of euphonium legend, Steven Mead, to appear at the event, playing with both the local and visiting bands as guest soloist.

The concert, part of the 8^th Borders Festival of Brass, is a great opportunity to hear two of Scotland’s best bands in action and promises to be an excellent evening of entertainment.  “The Borders Festival of Brass is a great platform for us to promote music of the highest standard in the district and I would urge folk to come along to the concert, whether they’ve been to a brass band concert in the past or not,” said Keith Belleville, Secretary of St. Ronan’s Band.

The concert will be opened by the excellent St. Ronan’s Future Band conducted by David Robb and fresh from their success at the recent Brass in the Park contest where they received a silver award. The Future Band will be followed on stage by St. Ronan’s Silver Band under the baton of Musical Director, Alex Knox.  The guest band will be next up and will be led by Nigel Boddice, who has appeared in Innerleithen in the past conducting both the Yorkshire Building Society Band and the Norwegian outfit, Molde Brass.  “Both Kirkintilloch and St. Ronan’s have prepared a fantastic programmes for the concert, filled with something for everyone,” said Keith Belleville.

As well as the three bands, the organisers have also secured the services of Steven Mead whose extraordinary pioneering work with the euphonium has gained him worldwide fame as perhaps the foremost euphonium soloist in the world today.  He is without doubt most travelled soloist in the history of the instrument. His hectic schedule sees him playing concerts with leading ensembles, orchestras, brass and wind bands the world over.

He is currently in great demand as a recitalist and clinician throughout the world of brass playing.  Steven has been a professional euphonium soloist for some 18 years after a successful career with some of the top British brass bands and as a full time music teacher. It is this wealth of experience that has helped to create a musician who communicates with his audiences.  “Steven will be leading some development work with St. Ronan’s Band, as well as leading a Borders-wide school masterclass session, and we are delighted that he has also agreed to perform in the concert,” said Keith.

The Kirkintilloch Band was formed in 1890, but it was not until around 1948 that their contesting prowess came to light.  The band progressed through the sections in the 1950s and 60s.  They made their debut in the 1968 National Championships in the Royal Albert Hall.  In the 70’s the Band moved back to the 2^nd Section until 1974 when they were promoted back to the Championship Section.

The Band won the Scottish Championships in 1984, 1985, 1990 and again in 2002.  Success at the Scottish Championships meant further appearances in the National Finals in the Royal Albert Hall and to the band competing in the European Championships in Copenhagen, Wales, Rotterdam, Luxembourg, Bergen and in 2008 they will again represent Scotland at the European Championships in Stavanger, Norway.

In 2001 the Band won the Grand Shield Contest in Blackpool conducted by Alan Ramsay, which qualified them to take part in the British Open Championships for the first time in their history, recording a fourth place there in 2004, which was undoubtedly the bands best result at a national event since its formation in 1890.  This year under the leadership of Nigel Boddice they once again became Scottish Champions in the top section.

Tickets for next the concert are available from Adam’s Bakery in Innerleithen; Robb’s KeyStore, Eastgate, Peebles; tel. 01896 831721 or email.  They cost £5.00 and £4.00 for concessions.

BRASS IN THE PARK (26.8.07)
St. Ronan’s Future Band is taking part in the annual Brass in the Park event in Newtongrange on Saturday 1 September.  The band is set to perform a programme of music at 3.45pm, in the Development Section contest.

ANNUAL PRESENTATIONS (25.8.07)
At the annual presentation night awards were made to Player of the Year and Band Member of the Year.  In a break with tradition, Musical Director Alex Knox and Bandmaster David Robb awarded the “Player of the Year” award to the whole band in recognition of their outstanding achievement in winning the second section Scottish Championships . Band Member of the Year went to baritone player, Bob Soutter as an acknowledgment of all the work that he has done for the Band over the last year...

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING (23.8.07)
Christopher Wilson has been re-elected as the Chairman of St. Ronan’s Silver Band at the recent annual general meeting.  There was a large attendance of band members and members of the public at the meeting where the Secretary, Keith Belleville, reviewed an eventful year and the Treasurer Mark Cockburn presented the audited accounts.  The following officials were elected to serve for 2007-08: Chairman, Christopher Wilson; Vice Chairman, David Allan; Secretary, Keith Belleville; Treasurer, Mark Cockburn; Committee: Lynne Campbell, Wendy Fulton, Ann Hamilton, Shelley Hamilton, David Lindsay, David Phillips, Bob Soutter; Librarian, David Allan; Assistant Librarian, Craig Tait; Band Sergeant, David Lindsay; Depute Band Sergeant, David Phillips.  Louise Wilson was appointed again as the Band Auditor.

SUCCESSFUL GAMES WEEK (22.7.07)
The Band has taken part in another very successful St. Ronan's Border Games & Cleikum Ceremonies.  Leading all of the parades throughout the week, the culmination of the Band's involvement came with their joint performance with Innerleithen Pipe Band for the Beating of the Retreat.

Often described as the envy of other towns, the Retreat is organised by the local Bands as a way of saying 'thank you' to the people of Innerleithen for their support throughout the year.  Presiding over the performance for the last time was the President of St. Ronan's Border Games Keith Belleville.   St. Ronan and the Dux Girl, Standard Bearer Caine and Lass Sandi Scott, their Supporters, Monks, and the De’il made up the rest of the official party.
 

The two town bands marched on together behind the Silver Band Sergeant David Lindsay and Drum Major Andy Lyon.  They played David Robb’s “Games Pipe Marches” which combines “The Bear Gates,” “Lass of Fyvie,” and “Galloway Hills.”  The Silver Band then rendered “Sunset.”  The Pipe Band followed with a highly imaginative Drummers Call which included a drummer’s battle.  This was a real highlight of the Retreat and the Drummers are to be congratulated on this very well choreographed display.

 

Confirming the events reputation as a real “show,” the Silver Band played a version of the Proclaimers “500 Miles” which was a genuine hit with the crowds and saw Band Sergeant and Ex-Standard Bearer David Lindsay dancing with a number of people, including the Chairman’s wife, Caroline Belleville!  The Pipe Band then gave a superb rendition of the Queen classic, “We Will Rock You” which saw Drummer and Ex-Standard Bearer Robert Doherty help crowds get into a party mood.

 

Another combined effort was the beautiful folk tune “Leaving Leithenside” by Kenny Speirs.  The hymn tune “Eventide” was played by Max Giegerich and conducted by Alex Knox.

 

Drum Major Andy Lyon and Band Sergeant Lindsay then approached the Cleikum party where the President introduced him to the principals before he was given permission to march off.  To resounding applause, the bands made their retreat playing “On St. Ronan's”.

BUSY SUMMER FOR BAND (9.6.07)
June is a busy month for the Band.  The members appeared at West Linton last week (1 June) and will be in Newtongrange Saturday 9 June for the Gala Day there.  On Friday 15 June the Band is off to Loanhead before its appearance at Peebles Beltane Festival (Saturday 23 June) and as the official Band to the Braw Lads‘ Gathering in Galashiels the next week, with Walkerburn Summer Festival on Friday 29 June...  All of this comes ahead of the Band’s involvement in St. Ronan’s Border Games week next month.

BORDERS BRASS GOES ONLINE (24.5.07) 

The Scottish Borders Brass Band Association has launched its first-ever website – www.bordersbrass.org.uk ..  The Association, which was re-formed in 1998, hopes that the site will help it in its aim to raise the profile of the region’s brass bands as well as keeping everyone informed of the activities of the Association.  “We have included sections on our major activities, such as the Borders Festival of Brass and the Borders Entertainment Contest,” explained Association Chairman, Alan Fernie.  “There is a calendar of Borders brass events and lots of other useful information.  It is possible to download entry forms for our contests and Festival events from the site and we hope that the site will develop and grow in the future,” Alan said.

 

Visit the online home of the Scottish Borders Brass Band Association at – www.bordersbrass.org.uk

WARREN WOWS THE CROWDS IN INNERLEITHEN (22.5.07)
It seemed somewhat appropriate that the first public performance by St Ronan’s Silver Band after being crowned Scottish Second Section Champions was to a packed Memorial Hall for the annual Spring concert.

We’ve heard it before; “the most memorable concert ever held in the Memorial Hall”, but Saturday evening’s concert from St Ronan’s Silver Band, St Ronan’s Future Band and special guest soloist Warren Lindsay must surely have been exactly that.

Vice-Chairman Davie Allan thanked all the band’s followers for their continued support, and without further ado introduced the St. Ronan’s Future Band under the direction of Mr David Robb.  The Future Band opened with the rousing “March On Our Team”, with good sounds from the 20 player ensemble before the group entertained the audience with an excellent “Cossack Dance” which gave all sections of the band an opportunity to shine.  Former Future Band Principal Cornet Ross Brotherston was given the opportunity to conduct the next item, Frank Bernaerts arrangement of “Can You Feel the Love Tonight?” from the Lion King.  The young band responding splendidly to the young conductor, demonstrating that the Future Band is a development ground for musical direction as well as playing.  The baton was returned to Davie Robb, and the Future Band closed their set with an up-beat arrangement by Alan Fernie of  “Everybody Needs Somebody” from the Blues Brothers, which featured some fine ensemble playing and nice touches from the young bass player and the soprano cornet.  The future of St Ronan’s Silver Band appears to be in good hands.

The Future Band was followed on to the stage by the newly crowned Scottish Champions, and as soon as the band, under the leadership of Musical Director Alex Knox, had taken their places on the platform, opened with the classic march “Arnhem”.  The tremendous sound immediately making an impact; much more complete and compact than in previous years. Solid Basses and Trombones were complemented by stunning counter melodies from Davie Lindsay and his Euphonium team, with the Cornet team driving the melody on. Alex Knox’s leadership has clearly instilled tightness and command of the dynamic challenges that has improved the Band’s sound and intonation enormously. The Band then launched into a golden oldie from Gilbert & Sullivan. The Drake Rimmer arranged “Overture from H.M.S Pinnafore” was played as a special request for Innerleithen’s elder statesman of music, Jack Waldie, who must have been suitably impressed by the solid performance presented by the band.  Alex then introduced the night’s special guest soloist, local lad Warren Lindsay.  Warren is a product of the Future Band set-up, and is one of the most talented cornet players around.  He was the Band’s principal cornet player at the age of 16, before leaving Innerleithen in 2003 to join the Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines as a solo cornet player.

From his opening cadenza figures in his first solo of the evening; Del Staigers arrangement of the old brass band favourite “Carnival of Venice”, it was obvious from his superb lip slurs and unbelievable lip trills in the top register that the audience were in for a special night.  Del Staigers made this excellent arrangement when he was Principal Cornet of the famous Goldman Band in America in 1929.  The piece has plenty opportunity to show both agility and lyrical playing styles as well as the need for superb technique.  Warren’s performance was technically superb and mesmerising at times; the triple tonguing during the last movement must have had some of the audience wondering if some sort of trickery was involved!  The band accompaniment was also first class, with nice Baritone sounds throughout from Mark Cockburn and some very polished playing indeed from the back row cornets.  This piece of technical wizardry was followed up by the beautiful slow melody from Northern Ireland “Carrickfergus”.  This excellent arrangement by Stephen Roberts was a tremendous piece to show Warren’s fantastic sound, using judicious amounts of vibrato to bring out the emotion of the music to great effect.  The solo counter melody in the upper octave was handled with ease and confidence. However, great credit must go to the front row cornets, who managed the sustained melody above the stave superbly.

With the soloist retiring for a well-deserved break, the Band performed “Albion Treasures” a nice piece containing music from the four home countries – Amazing Grace, Swing Low Sweet Chariot, Highland Cathedral, the Welsh Hymn Renton and Danny Boy.  The Band again played very well, with particularly fine playing from the Band’s Flugel player Jill Keddie. “Hava Nagila” closed out the first half in spectacular fashion.  The traditional Hebrew folk song was given the magic treatment by ace arranger Alan Fernie, and from Max Giegerich’s scintillating opening cadenza to the furious ending the Band held the audience spellbound  The percussion team of Andrew Forrest, Claire Bell and Allan “Sparky” Graham were on top form, driving the Band through this very effective piece with great style.  The running semi-quaver passages from the Euphoniums and Cornets were clear as day and the Trombones were truly outstanding throughout in this atmospheric piece.

The Band opened the second half of the concert with the first movement from the test piece that they played to win the Scottish Championships – Helen Perkins “Carnival”.  The Band on stage was; with two exceptions, the Band that played at the contest  (Bill Baillie deputising on 2^nd Euphonium and former Principal Cornet Scott Forrest on the front row to cover for the injured Ian Aitchison).  The players romped through the piece that will be embedded in their memories for ever!  Alex then welcomed Warren Lindsay back on stage to perform another air varie extravaganza, John Hartman’s “La Belle Americaine”.  Again Warren’s superb technique was evident from the outset, with lyricism and phrasing of the highest order.  The band accompaniment – a very difficult skill - was again sympathetic, never swamping the soloist and working together to produce a performance that had the audience on their feet.  Warren then switched instruments to Flugel Horn, and Alex Knox called up the Band’s Soprano Superstar (and winner of the best instrumentalist medal at the Scottish Championships!) Ross Brotherston to play “Pie Jesu” the duet made famous by Sarah Brightman and the boy-soprano Paul Miles-Kingston.  The deep mellow Flugel sounds were a delightful foil for the clear soprano line, with both players delivering their verses with feeling before the closing harmonised duet brought the piece to a emotional end.  The Band then went into March mode, with a well-presented performance of the march made famous in the cult film “Brassed Off”, “Death or Glory”.  Alan Fernie’s arrangement of the song made famous by the Carpenters; “Yesterday Once More” followed, changing the mood entirely, and giving Max Giegerich an opportunity to shine on Cornet and Eric Forbes a starring role on Tenor Horn.  Following last year’s Christmas Concert success with the Alan Fernie Scottish sing song medley entitled “Jings”, Alex introduced the sequel “Crivvens”  (“Help ma Boab” will complete the trilogy at this years Christmas concert!).  The audience were soon singing away to weel kent songs such as “Stop yer ticklin’ Jock”, “Fitba’ Crazy”, “Dark Island”, “Ye cannae shove yer granny aff the bus” and “Twa (or should that be three?) Craws sat upon a wa’” (which featured a truly outstanding trio from Trombonists Keith Belleville, Davie Phillps and Gordon Burns).  Yet another Alan Fernie arrangement followed; this time the beautiful “Leaving Leithenside” (which is rapidly becoming the Band’s signature tune).  This fantastic melody was written by local musician Kenny Speirs, and was recently arranged for Brass and Pipes by Alex Knox and played at the climax of last year’s Games Retreat.  This arrangement provides opportunity for various players in the Band to take the lead, and on the night Max Giegerich on Cornet, Eric Forbes on Tenor Horn and the irrepressible Davie Lindsay on Euphonium excelled.

Warren Lindsay returned for his final piece of the evening, another Flugel Horn Solo, Chuck Mangione’s “Children of Sanchez”.  The soloist played this fitting climax to an excellent concert unbelievably well; the slow movement demonstrating Warren’s fantastic sound quality before he went into an improvised jazz section that Flugel legend Mangione himself would have been proud.  Whilst the playing from the soloist was awesome, the band playing was a delight to behold.  The percussion team in full flow to enhance the musical atmosphere and the Bass section at their pulsating best.  Young Brotherston was enjoying himself with some superb high register playing and again Davie Lindsay’s Euphonium team was superb.  As luck would have it, this magnificent rendition was recorded, and has been posted on the YouTube site on the Internet – it’s definitely worth checking out!

The Band concluded the show with a rousing encore of “On, St Ronan’s, On!”, with the audience satisfied that they had been entertained to a very high standard.  You just sensed during this concert that there is a real hunger and sense of desire to impress even more on the concert and contest platform these days.  Alex Knox, David Robb, St. Ronan’s Future Band, St. Ronan’s Silver Band and Warren Lindsay can be justifiably proud of their performances.  The Band can now concentrate on preparations for the British National Championships in Harrogate - what are you doing on 30^th September Warren?

CONCERT PREVIEW (7.5.07)
The Band is putting the final touches to arrangements for the Spring Concert, to be held on Saturday 19 May in the Memorial Hall, Innerleithen at 7.30pm.  The event has been organised to celebrate the Band’s recent Scottish Championship win and the Band will be joined by former member, Warren Lindsay, as guest soloist.

Twenty year-old Warren, who learned to play cornet with St. Ronan’s Silver Band, rose to become the Band’s principal cornet player before he left Innerleithen in 2003 to join the Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines as a solo cornet player.  Warren was originally based in Portsmouth, then Plymouth, before being transferred to Scotland.  As well as the standard military band set up, Warren plays with the big band, dance band and jazz band.  He has taken part in a number of high profile events, including the Mountbatten Festival of Music and the 2005 VE/VJ Day Commemorations in Westminster Abbey.  Warren was the youngest person ever to be part of the fanfare team on Horse Guards Parade, Whitehall.  As well as his musical service, Warren has served on RFA Argus, the primary casualty receiving facility.

Warren will play a number of superb solos, accompanied by the Band, including “Carnival de Venice,” and “Carrickfergus.”  The band will be conducted at the concert by Musical Director, Alex Knox, and the programme will be shared with the excellent St. Ronan’s Future Band under the direction of Bandmaster, David Robb.

Tickets are on sale now and are available from Adam’s Bakery in Innerleithen and Robb’s Newsagents in Eastgate, Peebles at a cost of £5.00 (£4.00, concessions).  Tickets can also be ordered by telephoning 01896 831721 or emailing here.  Anyone from the Innerleithen area who requires a lift to the concert should telephone 01896 830577.

MEDAL NIGHT CELEBRATIONS  (27.4.07)
The Band celebrated their Scottish Championship win with a night in Innerleithen Union Club surrounded by their families, friends and supporters on Friday 27 April.  The evening opened with a short concert presentation, directed by the Musical Director, Alex Knox.  The programme included the march, "Arnhem," and a beautiful rendition of "Pie Jesu," played by Ross Brotherston (soprano) and Max Giegerich (cornet).  Following this, Band Chairman, Christopher Wilson welcomed everyone to the event, going on to congratulate the Band on their recent achievements. "As everyone here will be aware the Band reached the highest point in its long history by becoming Scottish Champions in the Second Section in March this year and it is my pleasure to thank everyone for making this possible.  A lot of work went into the Band achieving such a high standard with the players in front of you giving up a lot of their valuable time. I would personally like to thank each and every member of the band for all the hard work put in over the last few months," he said.

"It would not be possible for us to have achieved this without having the correct person standing in front of us. Alex put us all through our paces with great rehearsals.  Alex has proven him self in the brass band circle now and we would all like to thank him for what we have achieved under his direction and now look forward to working with him as our Musical Director," Christopher added.

The Band's President, Mr Jackie Laidlaw, then made the presentation of medals to the players who had been part of the contest win.  Recalling his long involvement with the Band, Jackie said, "When I joined the Band at the end of the Second World War, the men coming back to the Band were still in uniform and the McGlasson Family were to the fore.  Mark Cockburn's and Alan Patterson's grandfathers and Leckie Smith’s father were Band members then and we have always remained a family Band.  It’s great to see the progress that the Band has made.  Reaching the First Section as a family Band from a small town in the Borders is a great achievement and I would like to congratulate everyone who is involved."

The evening's guests included many of the Band's Life Members and Honorary Members as well as the President of the Scottish Brass Band Association, Mr Peter Fraser, who added his congratulations to St. Ronan's.

NEW MUSICAL TEAM FOR ST. RONAN’S (24.4.07)
St. Ronan’s Silver Band is delighted to announce the appointment of Alex Knox as the Band’s Musical Director and David Robb as Bandmaster. Alex has worked with the Band over the last year and will continue to direct the Band at contests and concerts. Alex, who retired from the British Army as a Director of Music in 2006, is credited with a pivotal role in three consecutive contests wins for St. Ronan’s, most notably the 2nd Section Scottish Champion title earlier this month.

Commenting on the new arrangements, Alex said: “David Robb's appointment will without doubt be a great benefit to the band. He is an experienced and respected brass instrumental tutor who has a great wealth of knowledge in the Brass Band scene. I know we will work extremely well together and hopefully we can bring continued success to St Ronan's Silver Band, both in the community and on the national stage, when we represent Scotland at Harrogate in the National Finals in September."

David Robb, who served the Band as Conductor between 1995-2002, makes a welcome return in the new role of Bandmaster and will lead rehearsals when Alex is not there and direct the Band at other engagements Commenting on his appointment, David said, “I am delighted to be given the opportunity to work with the Band again. St. Ronan's is one of the hardest working bands in the country and I look forward to working with Alex Knox to help guide them through this most exciting period in the Band's history.” David will continue to play with the band when Alex is conducting, filling the repiano cornet seat as well as leading the Band’s youth set-up, the St. Ronan’s Future Band.

“We are very pleased with the new arrangements,” explained Band Secretary, Keith Belleville. “I know that Alex and David will work very well together; their combined talents will be of real benefit to St. Ronan’s as we move forward into another exciting chapter in the Band’s history,” he added.

Following the Band’s success at the Scottish Championships, they are now working towards a Celebration Concert on Saturday 19 May in Innerleithen’s Memorial Hall at 7.30pm. Tickets are now available from Adam's Bakery in Innerleithen; Robb's Newsagency in Eastgate, Peebles or tel. 01896 831721. They are priced at £5.00 (£4.00 for senior citizens and under 16s) or email here.

RACE NIGHT & DISCO (24.4.07)
The Band launched its fund-raising campaign to go to Harrogate for the UK Finals in September with a Race Night & Disco on Saturday 21 April in the Union Club, Innerleithen.  Over £900 was raised - thanks to everyone who supported the event.

BAND CROWNED SCOTTISH CHAMPIONS (10.3.07)
The Band has been crowned Second Section Scottish Champions at the Caird Hall, Dundee under the leadership of Alex Knox.  Adjudicators Kevin Wadsworth and Roger Webster placed St. Ronan's ahead of the eleven other second section bands following a confident and well-prepared performance of Helen Perkin's 'Carnival.'  To add to the celebrations, Ross Brotherston, the Band's young soprano star, was awarded Best Instrumentalist.  This fine result means promotion to the First Section for the first time in the Band's 197 year history as well as an invite to the UK Finals in Harrogate on 30 September.  Full result:

1. St. Ronan's Silver, A. Knox, 6, 182
2. Granite City Brass, T. Paulin, 7, 181
3. Selkirk Silver, R. Duff, 5, 180
4. Tullis Russell Mills, G. Lindsay, 9, 178
5. Jedforest Instrumental, A. Fernie, 11, 177
6. Croy, J. Anderson, 8, 176
7. Clydebank Burgh, D. Hamilton, 2, 174
8. Kilmarnock Concert Brass, A. Keachie, 4, 173
9. Dalkeith & Monktonhall Colliery, J. Chamberlain, 10, 172
10. Shotts St. Patrick's Brass, A. Duguid, 1, 171
11. Annan Town (APD), D. Shanks, 3, 170
Broxburn Silver, C. McKenzie, w

Top 2 bands qualify

Best instrumentalist:
Ross Brotherston, Soprano, St. Ronan's Silver

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