Mild Lincolnshire spring weather greeted BCB on their arrival at Gainsborough, allowing the band to make the very most of the busy day’s schedule planned for them by the home corps.

 

The historic Marshall’s Yard shopping centre, provided the setting for the afternoon open-air concert presented by the band, with the march to and from the venue also attracting much interest and support from the townsfolk.

 

It is just 5 years since our previous weekend visit to the corps and the warmth of our reception and the wonderful welcome tea therefore came as little surprise.  Likewise the band was so enthusiastically received by the capacity audience to our evening music making.  ‘A night at the Proms’ provides both band and audience the challenge of music very different from that generally presented in Salvation Army band programmes. And tonight would be no exception.!

 

Our first half theme, ‘The Best of British’, with a taste Freddie Mercury , The Beatles, James Bond,, Tom Jones , Riverdance, all included in a whistle-stop tour of music from across the UK.

 

We welcomed as our guest vocal soloist, Hazel Launn from Bedford Congress Hall and a member of the International Staff Songsters, who’s contrasting songs were so well received.

 

And then with the band, some now in DJ’s and dickie bows and others in flowing dresses (the ladies of course!), the long awaited second half. Albert Hall favourites, including, ‘Fantasia on British Sea Songs’, ‘Land of Hope & Glory’, ‘Jerusalem’  and ‘Rule Brittania’ (featuring our guest soloist Hazel) encouraged some very enthusiastic flag waving and hearty audience singing.

 

Our audience we understand had travelled from near and far with  many perhaps new to the Salvation Army.  Once again our thanks the Gainsborough Corps ,  for inviting us and indeed for working so hard to make it such a successful evening.

 

 

 

Words: Keith Watts

Pictures: Peter Millest