2011 News Archive

8th December 2011 - Camp Hill Festivities

As usual, the band's annual Christmas concert for the residents at Camp Hill in Wakefield went down a treat! The band played a variety of Christmas pieces and some others from well-known film soundtracks such as Pirates of the Caribbean. The students also sang several Christmas carols.

The band later retired to the local pub at Newmillerdam before going their separate ways. We will reconvene in the New Year and start rehearsing for the concert in April.

6th October 2011 - New conductor appointed

Wakefield Orchestral Wind are pleased to announce that Garry Hallas is to be their new conductor. Garry came to audition in September and the band chose him above the other candidates for the job. Garry comes with plenty of experience as he also conducts the Emley Brass Band. He is enthusiastic and keen to work with us.

Garry said "I very much look forward to working with WOW, and think together we could move the band forward and push the standard yet further, build a bigger balanced team and take on some new interesting musical challenges. Hopefully we will have a lot of fun whilst doing it".

6th September 2011 - Conductor Wanted

Wakefield Orchestral Wind have an exciting opportunity available - we are looking for a talented and experienced conductor to help the band develop and grow musically.

It is desirable that the applicant has an understanding of woodwind and ensemble/band repertoire, while the ability to produce arrangements suited to the group is a distinct advantage.

The band currently enjoys playing a mixture of music, from film scores to more traditional wind pieces and we are happy to try anything new and challenging. The right conductor will be keen to work with the band to select repertoire and possess good communication and interpersonal skills. We are a friendly group of players who respond well to enjoyable and productive rehearsals.

If you think you 'hit the right notes' please contact us to discuss the vacancy.

23rd July 2011 - Band Fuddle*!

The band held a social evening last Thursday instead of the usual rehearsal. A raffle was held which raised £37 for band funds.

We also said goodbye and thank you to Kat, who moving down south for a new job. The band are very grateful for her support over the past few years, especially as band librarian.

*For those who don't know 'fuddle' is a Yorkshire word for a party where participants bring food and drinks (and definitely not some of the other definitions mentioned on the internet!).

9th July 2011 - Ossett Gala

Once again the band played at the Ossett Gala. This year we played in the arena in front of the Town Hall rather than off to one side. This meant there were plenty of chairs for our audience to sit on. For most of time playing we were bathed in warm sunshine, but it clouded over towards 11 o'clock and we ended up playing our last piece in the pouring rain! Undeterred, we carried on to the end, although the music was decidely damp and wrinkled by then; at least the ink didn't run. Shortly afterwards the rain decided to stop!

The band would like to thank Tim and Mike for helping out on drums and baritone, and also Roy and Sharon for coming along and supporting us.

15th April 2011 - Raising Money for WOW

Wakefield Orchestral Wind have signed up with www.easyfundraising.org.uk, an innovative website where thousands of people are raising money for charities every time they shop.

By using easyfundraising to access over 2000 well known retailers, savvy shoppers generate a free donation for the good cause of their choice. And as donations can be as much as 15% of the purchase price, the band are really hoping local people will log on and support them.

To support the band, visit http://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/wakefieldow and follow the instructions.

24th February 2011 - New Year, New Members

The band would like to welcome several new players who have joined us recently. Paul on tenor sax, Janet on flute, Carl on french horn, and Alison on clarinet.

1st February 2011 - Summer Repertoire

Following another successful Christmas Concert at Camp Hill, the band are now rehearsing their repertoire for the summer. Eric is planning to feature several solos and duets. As always, there will be something for everyone in the audience - from classical to jazz!