Coalburn awards ceremony highlighted organisation's talent and spirit

The Coalburn Brass Band Family’s annual awards presentation highlighted the talent and spirit driving the organisation forward – from the youngest members of the Beginners Group to the more experienced players of the Silver Band.

The Beginners Group and Percussion Academy have been working tirelessly under the guidance of tutors Gill Howarth and Robbie Bremner.

Proudly receiving certificates and medals for the Beginners Group were Carra Beadle, Amelie Beedell, Eloise Beedell, Catelyn Dougan, Mason Kerr, and Rachel Reid. Noah Iansen, Leo Iansen, Nathan Inglis and Grace Nugent were to receive their awards later.

The Percussion Academy (above) was represented by Megan Cowan, Lincoln Martin-Barerra, Gregor Naismith, Hollie Reid and Graham Pate, who was awarded the Most Improved Player. William Glassford and Clare Symonds were to be presented with their certificates and medals at the next rehearsal.

Individual Honours

The awards ceremony recognised several standout musicians and dedicated members for their contributions over the past year:

· Bronze Band and Percussion Academy: Alex Sheridan received the Children’s Choice Award, while Gabriel Hadley and Hollie Reid were both named Band Person of the Year (below). The George Blackwood Memorial Trophy was awarded to Owen Higgins for his significant musical development as chosen by conductor Jim Park.

· Intermediate Band: Fiona Foley deservedly earned both the Players’ Player of the Year and the Conductor’s Awards with Ivor Foley being recognised as the Most Improved Player. The Player of the Year title was awarded to Kerry Angeletti by conductor Gareth Bowman.

· Silver Band: Richard Bromley achieved a double win, receiving both the Conductor’s Award and Players’ Player of the Year (cover photo). Daniel Beadle was presented with the President’s Quaich for Band Person of the Year, and Ian Jamieson was named Player of the Year for his consistent excellence and solo performances.

Sections of the Year

The coveted Section of the Year titles were awarded to:

· Bronze Band: The trombone section (Gregor Naismith, Lewis Rose, and Owen Higgins). Conductor Jim Park praised the trio for their incredible progress as the youngest section in the band.

· Intermediate Band: Described as the ‘heartbeat of the band’ by conductor Gareth Bowman, the percussion section (Megan Cowan, William Glassford, Hollie Reid, Raymond McGaghey, Gregor Naismith and Clare Symonds) took home the prize.

· Silver Band: The euphonium and baritone section (Katie Abernethy, Ross Abernethy, Helena Dunsmore, and Ian Jamieson).

Band president Alan Court brought the event to a close with a vote of thanks to all who attended and supported the occasion. The organisation is grateful to Alan Stewart for the photos and to Stroba Design for designing and supplying the awards.

Coalburn Beginners with their certificates