Soloists shine at 'Coalburn's Got Talent'

The inaugural ‘Coalburn’s Got Talent’ event took place last Friday, 15 June at ‘The Fountain’ village hall in Lesmahagow.

Hosted by the Coalburn Brass Band family, the event was established to provide a platform for players of all ages and abilities across the band’s four ensembles to perform a solo item.

Scott Kerr (left) and Alan Court (right) with the Coalburn soloists

The band’s special guest for the night was Scott Kerr, principal euphonium with the Whitburn Band. As well as performing at the end of the event, Scott provided written feedback to all participants.

There was an excellent entry of 19 soloists, 17 brass players and two percussionists. The supportive audience was also treated to a couple of items from the Coalburn Percussion Academy.

Many of the soloists were accompanied by Nicola McKenzie on piano whose sensitive and experienced playing undoubtedly assisted many of the ‘first time’ performers.

Seven Intermediate Band, five Bronze Band and seven Silver Band members played a variety of music, some only a line or two with others attempting more intricate items.

All participants received a certificate and the best performances from Silver, Intermediate and Bronze categories, chosen by Scott, will receive a lesson from him later in the year.

The winners were as follows:

Bronze Band: Douglas Ormrod, cornet, who played Lily the Pink.

Intermediate Band: Claire McGhee, flugel horn, who played Misty.

Silver Band: David Fehilly, Eb Bass, who played Ordner Seg by Oystein Beadsvik.

As the evening was brought to a close Scott performed Re-Imagined Contradanza (A Workman’s Lunch Break), a fabulous piece he wrote himself and played with virtuosic aplomb.

Band President Alan Court commented: “This was a wonderful night of entertainment, it was so encouraging to see so many of our younger members taking part. The support and camaraderie from the band members was truly fabulous.”

Scott Kerr added: “This was a truly inspiring night, seeing so many kids being so excited to play. The standard was great throughout and I would like to congratulate the Coalburn organisation for this excellent event.”