Strata Brass have been working hard over the last few weeks to prepare for Weatherby Bandstand on the 20th of June and their ‘Return of the Concert’ programme.
With regulations relaxed enough to allow them all back in to a rehearsal room for the first time since the start of the global pandemic in March of 2020, The band very quickly fell back in to the playing habit very quickly, leading the management team to take the decision that a full band performance would be possible.
As much as getting back on the proverbial bandstand is great news and a sign things are getting beter, this performance will be the last with Strata Brass for James Atkins and Riley Anderson.
James has been the bands Principle Cornet for the last two years, but has been offered a seat at the Fairey Band, which is a fantastic opportunity and the band whole heartedly support him in the move. James will feature as the Cornet Soloist on Sunday for the last time before handing over the reins to James Corking who will be making his debut as Principle.
Riley like wise has been the Principle Euphonium also for the last couple of years while he was studying at the RNCM under the fabulous David Thornton and Steve Mead, He is a promising young player and in the last week has completed his final recital. He will be heading back to his native Virginia in the coming weeks, and we at stratabrass.com will be interested to watch his progression over the next few years to see where his playing career can take him.
Speaking on behalf of the Management team, Band Manager Robert Hardy said “Both players will be missed by the band, but we want to thank them both for being a part of the band, especially for their hard work on the Lockdown Videos. We wish them both the very best in the future.”
