## **Secretary’s report 2023-2024** 

Britannia Concert Band (BCB)  practices resumed on Tuesday 28[th] of August 2023.  The band had our first engagement of new band year on the 22[nd] of September in the Guildhall. It was a joint performance with the Strabane Brass Band for culture night in DerryLondonerry which was well received by organisers and audience alike. 

In November we continued our program with a 2 hour concert under the title ‘Together in music’ in St Columb’s Hall. On this occasion the Dublin Bands returned our visit and joined us along with the William King Flute Band and the Sollus dancers performing the story of the siege.  What’s more Mark Smith introduced the varied program with his usual wit and made the event enjoyable for all involved. The Dublin Bands complimented BCB for the organisation which made their stay an unforgettable experience. In fact we have to thank particularly Joanne and John for that and last but not least the North West Cultural Partnership (NWC) which took care of the buffet in New Gate at arrival of the Dublin Bands and the catering before the concert and the after show drinks and entertainment party in St Columb’s Hall. They also offered a guided walk around the walls for our Dublin guests the next morning. 

Like every year BCB took part in the Remembrance Sunday Service and was busy in December playing Christmas music in front of the Guildhall and the Foyleside Shopping Centre, for the Christmas tree Festival in the Cathedral, for the All Saints carol service and for the Christmas event in Kilfennan Presbyterian Church. 

In the spring term members and some partners came together at a carvery in the White Horse Hotel which was well liked by everyone. 

In May BCB played with a full band for the Jazz Festival in New Gate and received good feedback afterwards. 

June was another busy month with BCB which started by playing at the Gartan Service inside the church this year due to bad weather. Furthermore we played along with performances by Joanna Higgins for a fundraising concert organised by Drumachose Church in Limavady. The audience enjoyed it a lot and thanked most members for their performance afterwards. We continued by playing with the Strabane Brass Band in 8 different locations around the walls for the Yes Festival, an international event ending in Derry. Finally BCB ended the season by playing for the Maritime Festival in Derry which was an enjoyable occasion. 

During the year Harry Goodman received the well deserved McGowan cup and we were lucky to welcome Michael Bond as a new trombone player. 



Thanks for another successful band year go to all guest players, particularly Derek Moore and Peter Doherty helping us out during concerts. In addition thanks go to Robert and Olivia conducting during rehearsals and the odd performance when Stewart was not available. We mustn’t forget to thank Stewart who tries to get the best performance out of us. Finally I would like thank our committee whose work keeps the band going. Especially Joanne and John seem to have an eye on everything. Last but not least I would like to thank all members for their commitment during the year. It is your taking part that makes BCB. 

Petra Steltner