The senior band competed at the British Open Spring Festival, in the senior cup, held at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool on the 18th May.

The band were the first band in the second half of the draw to perform Paul Hubers ‘Symphonic Music’.

The competition was fierce with a total of 21 bands performing the same piece and it was certainly a day to remember, with the band finishing 4th place and promotion to the Grand Shield in May 2020.

We would to thank our MD Dave Purkiss for all of his hard work and passion in pushing the band forward into the next level.

Our youngsters have been very busy outside of the bandroom and working especially hard to further their musical journey.

Principal Cornet Jessica hit the high note as she represented her county at the Army Cadets National Music Band camp in April this year. Twice a year, all ACF bands gather for a ‘Concentration’, a week-long music camp in which over 500 cadets at all levels play and learn together, culminating in a series of examinations and performances in one of the largest musical ensembles in the country. Jessica’s most recent accomplishment of being promoted to Lance Corporal rank has certainly upped the ranks with her dedication and commitment to not only playing in the Junior Band but also a member of our champion Mid Band.

Morgan enjoyed taking part in Black Dyke’s ‘Trombone Day’ where he joined a team of 22 trombone players of all ages and standards recently teamed up with Black Dyke stars Brett Baker and Paul Woodward. The students spent the day learning from the finest having workshops and tutorials to give a performance at the end of the day. Morgan was able to watch the best at work when Brett and Paul also joined by members of the Black Dyke Youth Trombone Quartet gave a fantastic lunchtime recital.

Yet another piece of silverware to add to the Ratby Bandroom as the senior band win at Buxton.The contest was own choice test piece and Ratby chose to play the Blackpool senior cup test piece ‘Symphonic Music’ in the championship/first section.Not only did the band win the contest but our Bb Bass player Matt Wilkins won the soloist prize. Well done Matt!The band will now go on to compete in the Spring Festival at the Blackpool Winter Gardens on the 18th May. The organisation wishes them all the very best!

Music Fest 2019 has certainly been another truly successful weekend.

Two evenings packed with music making from all aspects of musical diversity, rock bands, brass bands, big band and barber shop chorus, Ratby certainly know how to put on a good show.

Both evenings boasted packed audiences who were thoroughly entertained by all with waiter bar service, not forgetting the legendary cheese cobs!

We truly are a unique organisation showcasing all 5 of our ensembles throughout the weekend!

Thank you to everyone who made the weekend possible and of course our wonderful supporters , who without you our music wouldn’t be able to be shared.

The Ratby Co-operative organisation had a double success at the Midlands Area Contest. The senior band had their best ever result with the piece Seascapes, finishing an outstanding 3rd in the championship section.

Earlier in the day the mid band also had their best ever result achieving FIRST place in the 4th section. This result means that they will go on to compete at the national finals in Cheltenham in September.

For 2020 the mid band have been promoted to the 3rd section.

The Ratby Organisation are very proud of these results and wish both both bands further success for the future.

The Ratby Co-operative Organisation had a prize winning day at the Leicestershire Brass Band Association Contest, held at Loughborough Grammar School.

Early on in the day, the mid band, conducted by Gary Perrin, played a resounding rendition of Lake to the Moon by Kevin Houben. The band impressed the adjudicator and won 3rd prize. An absolutely brilliant start to Gary’s contesting with the band.

Later on, the senior band took to the stage and they played Simon Dobson’s ‘Journey of the Lone Wolf’ with Marieka Grey taking the helm. The band were on top form and not only got 1st place, but also gaines two other prizes. Solo Euphonium player Rob Hunt won best instrumentalist and Becky Plant, Steve Sinclair and Andy Ellis won the Best Trombone Prize.

Both bands would like to thank Mareika, Dave and Gary for all of their hard work.

We are once again proud to host our own annual Festival of Remembrance.

We will be joined by guests from Leicestershire, Northamptonshire, and Rutland Army Cadet Corps of Drums.

This will be an evening not to be missed.

 

Ratby Co-Operative Brass Band were invited to headline at the New Springs Church Annual Ball.

The band, who shared the night with X-Factor Winner Sam Bailey, were on top form once again, finishing with fine performance of the last night of the proms.

The set, led by MD Dave Purkiss, was well received, with lots of compliments for the band after the night.

The band would like to say a thank you to New Springs Church, for the opportunity to play at this wonderful event.

Ratby Co-Operative Brass Band hosted their annual Oompah night, and it was another successful night.

From the Bratwurst and Frikadelle, washed down with Steins of beer, to the fun and games, all accompanied by the Oompah music, it made for an enjoyable night.

Under the leadership of Frontman Dave, the band played a varied and entertaining set that included hits such The Time Warp, through to German classics like Mussidenn, that the audience lapped up.

 

Want to pick up your playing, and continue learning, whilst having fun? TheJunior band could be for you!

Come along on Tuesdays at 7pm.