Nantwich Concert Band is celebrating in style after being awarded a Gold Award in the Community Wind Band category at the National Concert Band Festival (NCBF) Regional event in November.

It marks the band's first NCBF appearance in many years, making the achievement even more impressive.

The result reflects months of dedication, teamwork, and musical energy from the whole ensemble.

Nantwich Concert Band was warded Gold in the Community Wind Band category at the National Concert Band Festival (NCBF) Regional event in November (Photo: NCB).

The National Concert Band Festival is the UK's largest celebration of concert and wind bands, offering groups of all abilities the chance to perform, grow, and shine.

With regional events leading to the National Finals, standards are high, and Nantwich Concert Band certainly rose to the challenge.

Earlier this year, members were asked if they would like to take part in the festival, and the response was a resounding yes.

To prepare, the band added extra Monday rehearsals alongside their usual Wednesday evenings, bringing together around 35 enthusiastic players for focused fortnightly sessions.

Their Telford performance showcased a vibrant and varied programme:

• Concert Prelude (Philip Sparke)
• Whispers from Beyond (Rossano Galante)
• Country Gardens (Percy Grainger)
• March from A Moorside Suite (Gustav Holst)

This mix allowed the ensemble to shine with dynamic contrasts, expressive playing, and tight ensemble work.

Nantwich Concert Band is now tuning up for their sparkling Christmas Concert on Sunday 21 December at Nantwich Civic Hall (Photo: NCB).

Adjudicators praised the band for: Excellent dynamic variation, a well-balanced and confident sound, clear articulation and rhythmic drive and a colourful and well-constructed programme."

Their efforts earned them a Gold Award, recognising high musical standards, preparation, and ensemble skill, a huge milestone for the group.

Musical Director, Nick Birch, told Nub News: "I am incredibly proud of what the band has achieved in such a short space of time, just eight rehearsals.

"To enter the competition for the first time in many years and achieve a Gold Award is an outstanding accomplishment and something the band can continue to build on."

Fresh from their festival success, Nantwich Concert Band is now tuning up for their sparkling Christmas Concert on Sunday 21 December at Nantwich Civic Hall.

The festive performance begins at 2:30pm, with tickets £8 and under-12s go free.

Each audience member will also enjoy a complimentary mince pie. Tickets are available online HERE or on the door.

Nantwich Concert Band rehearses every Wednesday, from 7.30pm to 9:15pm at Highfields Academy, Nantwich, and new players are always welcome (Photo: NCB).

Band Chairman, Nick Thayer, added: "It is a remarkable achievement for the band to take part in the event and be awarded Gold.

"The dedication and commitment shown by the players and committee has been exceptional, and we're very proud of everyone involved."

Nantwich Concert Band rehearses every Wednesday, from 7.30pm to 9:15pm at Highfields Academy, Nantwich, and new players are always welcome.

READ MORE: What's on in Nantwich this weekend: Christmas Family Market and Ultimate Stone Roses.

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