Musicians from the Chester Schools Concert Band have thrilled European audiences with their wide repertoire during a tour of Germany, Switzerland and France where temperatures reached 40°C.
Based in Chester’s twin town of Loerrach on the southern edge of the Black Forest the 35 young musicians spent seven days performing and sight-seeing in the region.
The tour was to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the first performance of the band and Lorrach Stadtmusik. Musical director Anthony Bowen-Lewis said: “I am very proud of the Chester Schools Concert Band musicians and staff team.
“Despite temperatures of 40°C the band’s approach was always professional and the performances excellent; we are looking forward to welcoming the Lorrach Stadtmusik to once again tour and perform in our home city of Chester.”
Highlights of the tour included: a concert and guided tour of the European Parliament building in Strasbourg; a joint concert with Lorrach Stadtmusik in Basel, Switzerland; a performance followed by a free day to enjoy Europa Park and a joint concert with Lorrach Youth Band in their home town.
The full concert band of 50 is drawn from schools in Chester, Ellesmere Port and Neston. It is part of the Quality Learning Partnership of Chester West and Cheshire Council and is celebrating its 28th birthday this year.
Since 1985 the band has toured 14 European countries, from the Alps to the Arctic with variety of music from classical to pop and musicals to film scores.
The Chester Schools Concert Band is always looking for new players. Rehearsals are held every Tuesday 7-9pm during the school term in the main hall at The Bishops’ Bluecoat CE High School, Chester.
Players should have reached an equivalent standard of Grade 3-4 and ideally had some band experience. In addition an exciting new junior band is starting in September every Tuesday 5.45-6.45pm at the same place. For more information email CSCB@LIVE.CO.UK.
