The junior band have been crowned "Scottish Champions" after competing at the Scottish Youth Brass Band Championships in Glasgow's Royal Concert Hall, on Sunday 30th November. Competing in the under-16 class, the band fended off stiff competition from bands from as far afield as Campbeltown and Perthshire.

The band's winning programme included some of the players' favourite numbers: The Muppet Show, a selection from The Lion King, The Eye of the Tiger and The Best of ABBA. For their efforts, the band received a huge trophy and a commemorative banner. The trophy was collected on stage by the band's youngest member, Katy Sutherland.

The victory at Glasgow is the band's second triumph this year, having also taken the top spot at the Brass in the Park competition at Newtongrange in August. The hard work of players, supporters and conductor Cameron Mabon over the past three years has paid off. With more players than ever before, and even more waiting in the wings to join up, the junior band is going from strength to strength.

The senior band took first place in the third section at the Borders Entertainment Contest, held in Innerleithen's Memorial Hall on Saturday 15th November. The victory at Innerleithen is the band's third win in as many attempts in the third section this year.

The Borders contest attracted a strong field of 2nd, 3rd and 4th section bands from across Southern Scotland and the north of England. Each band played a programme of 20 minutes, each one including a piece of film music. The contest was won by the St. Ronan's Silver Band, spurred on by their home crowd.

Jedforest's programme consisted of: "Down by the Riverside" (arr. Fernie), "On with the Motley" (Leoncavallo, arr. Farr; soprano cornet soloist, David Lightbody), "Explosions Polka" (J. Strauss, arr. Newsome), "Speak Softly Love" (from The Godfather, Rota, arr. Fernie) and Macarthur Park (Jim Webb, arr. Fernie). Adjudicators Archie Hutchinson and Denis Taylor praised the band's rich sound and the musical interpretation of professional conductor, Alan Fernie. The band was placed third overall in the contest - an excellent result against some of the best lower section bands in Scotland.

The full results were as follows:
1. St. Ronan's Silver Band (2)
2. Barrhead Burgh (2)
3. Jedforest Instrumental Band (3)
4. Lochgelly (2)
5. Campbeltown (3)
6. Selkirk (2)
7. Clydebank (2)
8. Tullis Russel (3)
9. Newlands Concert (4)
9. MacTaggart Scott Loanhead (3)
9. Dumfries (3)
12. Hawick Saxhorn (4)
13. Shotts St. Patrick (2)
14. Flimby (2)
15. Peebles (3)
Most entertaining band: St. Ronans Silver Band
Best soloist: Xylophone Player, Hawick Saxhorn

Band takes top place at Whitburn Contest

The band took top honours in the third section at this year's entertainment contest at Whitburn, held in Whitburn Academy on Saturday 1st November. Conducted for the first time on the contest platform by bandmaster Cameron Mabon, the band's performance had a bit of everything: from Leoncavallo's classic operatic aria, "On with the Motley" to the Queen hit, "Don't Stop Me Now".

The standard of the competing bands was extremely high. Nine out of the fourteen bands were from the first or Championship section. The victory at Whitburn is the band's first at the contest, and the band is hoping to build on that success by putting in a good show at the Borders Entertainment Contest in Innerleithen on Saturday 15th November.

Jedforest Competitors perform well at Borders Slow Melody Competition

Players from Jedforest Instrumental Band took many of the prizes at the Borders Slow Melody Competition, held in Selkirk High School on Sunday 28th September. Leigh-Anne Stewart took top prize in the 12 and under category, with Patrick Fraser picking up first prize in the 10 and under section.

September Concert a Roaring Success

The band's autumn concert, held in Jedburgh Town Hall on Saturday 20th September, was a great success. The band was on good form, following its recent success at the Brass in the Park Competition (see below), and entertained a capacity audience with a programme that ranged from Dave Brubeck's "Blue Rondo a la Turk" to The Beatles' "Yellow Submarine". Professional conductor, Alan Fernie, picked up his trombone to join the band in two excellent solos. In the first half, he romped through J.A. Greenwood's "The Acrobat", which brought the house down. In the second half, the mood changed completely with a moving performance of "Annie Laurie", in a wonderful arrangement by Adrian Drover.

The junior band was also on fine form. It performed the programme that won first place at the recent Brass in the Park competition, with some fine solo playing from Leigh-Anne Stewart (tenor horn), Clare Younger (cornet) and Robert Fraser (trombone).

Double Whammy at "Brass in the Park" (August 2003)

The band scored a double success at the Brass in the Park competition on Saturday 30th August. The senior band took top honours in the 3rd Section, fending off stiff competition from some of the country's best 3rd section bands and beating a number of 2nd and first section bands into the bargain! At the same time, the junior band took first place in the Development Section, winning a trophy and £250. The victory for the senior band is the second in two years. At last year's competition, the band picked up the 4th Section trophy and the award for the best soloist (David Lightbody, soprano cornet). This year's programme included the march, The Australasian, by W. Rimmer, an arrangement of the hymn tune "Slane", by the band's musical director, Alan Fernie, and "Share My Yoke" (featuring Tamir Karp on cornet). The junior band performed a fifteen minute programme, opening with the rousing theme to the film, Rocky, and concluding with a lively version of the Bee Gees hit, Tragedy! The junior band members are now looking forward to competing at the Scottish Youth Championships in Glasgow on Sunday 30th November.

Mile of Coins to raise funds for Junior Band (August 2003)

An exciting project has been launched to raise funds for the Jedforest Junior Band. We are asking people to contribute any small change, in order to collect a mile of coins. Coins of all denominations will be accepted: 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p and even £1 and £2 coins, if people are generous enough to offer them! The coins will be laid out in the band hall at the end of December, after the band's Christmas concert on Saturday 20th December.

Jedforest Players involved at the NYBBS (August 2003)

Seven players from the Jedforest Instrumental Band joined the National Youth Band of Scotland for its annual Summer Course in St. Andrews. Playing for the main band were Stuart Black (2nd cornet), Katy Young (Repiano) and Tamir Karp (Repiano). Meanwhile, Clare Younger (2nd cornet), Robert Fraser (1st trombone), Patrick Fraser (baritone) and Allie Young (principal percussionist) all joined the ranks of the reserve band. It is hoped that the band will have even more players in the NYBBS next year.

First place at Fancy Dress Parade (July 2003)

The band once again took first place at the Jedburgh Fancy Dress Parade on Friday 11th July. The theme for this year was science fiction, and band members dressed as characters from Star Wars, Star Trek, etc. Many of the junior band players joined the senior band for the event, which marked the end of the Jedburgh Festival week.

Adam Smith takes B Band trophy (June 2003)

Junior Band Bass phenomenon, Adam Smith (alias Mr. Big), has won the coveted "Most Improved Player" Award for 2003. Adam has played in the junior band for about eighteen months, and is now playing for the senior band whenever possible. Adam practices diligently and rarely misses practices, and has made great progress on his bass this year, despite the fact that it is bigger than he is! Previous winners: Robert Fraser (trombone), Leigh-Anne Stewart (horn), Paul Robertson (soprano).

Strong showing at the "Scottish"... (March 2003) Competing in the third section for the first time in more than thirty years, the band put in a solid and very musical performance at the Scottish Championships in Falkirk on Sunday 9th March. Adjudicators Roger Webster and John berryman awarded the band fourth place - an encouraging result given that this was our first contest in the third section. The band's performance of the set test-piece, "Northern Landscapes", by Peter Graham, included polished solos from Principal Cornet, David Sutherland, and flugel, Tamir Karp. As ever, Jo Stark gave a flawless account of the euphonium part that was highly praised by the two men in the box. The band's overall sound was very good, and the performance spoiled only by odd lapses in intonation and some untidiness here and there. Nevertheless, the band came away from Falkirk delighted with such a strong showing in the 3rd Section. The 3rd section contest was won by the Lochgelly band. Taking second place was the St. Ronan's Silver Band from Innerleithen. For the full results, see "4 Bars Rest".

Paul Robertson takes Junior Band trophy (December 2003)

The "most improved player" award for 2002-3 was won by the Junior Band's soprano cornet player, Paul Robertson. Paul started his playing career as a Bb cornet player, but found it difficult not to play top Cs (a problem which many of the cornet players in the senior band would like to suffer from)! He moved to soprano a year ago, and has made excellent progress. He was awarded the trophy not just for his playing, but for his commitment to the band and the effort he makes to attend very practice. Previous winners: Robert Fraser and Leigh-Anne Stuart.

Borders Contest a Big Success (December 2002)

In December 2002, Jedburgh played host to the Borders Entertainment Contest, in its second year. Having won the prize for the "most entertaining band" in the inaugural contest, the band was keen to put in another strong performance. Our programme included a memorable euphonium solo ("The Rowan Tree", arr. Fernie") and concluded with Peter Graham's "Gaelforce" - a tour de force for the whole band! In the end, our performance was awarded fourth place overall. The contest was won by Newmilns and Galston band, conducted by Craig Anderson. The contest was a big success - with a capacity audience filling the Town Hall all day (an unusual sight at a contest these days!) and a touch of class added by compere Alasdair Hutton (the voice of the Edinburgh Tattoo). The 2003 Borders Contest will take place in October, and the band will be hoping to put in another strong performance.

CD proves popular (Christmas 2002)

The band made its first recording since 1979 on 2nd November last year. The recording was made in the band hall, and produced in time for the band's Christmas Concert. The CD, called "Joy!" after the opening track, features some of the numbers that have proved popular with audiences over the last few years. Notably, it includes some premiere recordings of music specially commissioned by the band: Alan Fernie's march "The Reivers" and "Jedburgh Overture". Other favourites include the spirited gospel number "Joy!", "The Great Escape" and "Breezin' Down Broadway". Three soloists are featured: David Lightbody gives a stunning rendition of "On with the Motley", David Sutherland (cornet) gives an authentic performance of "Georgia on my Mind" whilst Jo Stark whizzes through Remington's "Carnival of Venice" on euphonium. (NB: As of January 2003, there are no more copies of the CD on sale). Hair-raising experience at Torquay, in more ways than one... (September 2002) The Band travelled to Torquay on 21st September 2002 to compete in the British Championship Finals (4th Section). After weeks of preparation, the band felt well placed to pull off a good result. Unfortunately, the occasion got the better of us to some extent and our performance on stage was a trifle nervous. Nevertheless, the band put in a solid performance that earned us 13th place overall. Our initial dissapointment was tempered by the fact that the standard of the competition was extremely high, and that this was the band's first visit to the National Finals in more than thirty years. For many of the band's players, the trip to Torquay was their first experience of the National Finals. Despite our under-par performance on the day, the whole weekend was great fun and enjoyed by everyone. Even the long coach journey to and from Torquay (10 hours in each direction) did not dispell the team spirit that has done so much to fuel the band's recent success. Furthermore, the band did much to earn a name for itself away from the contest platform. Getting into the festival spirit of the National Finals, every member of the band died their hair blue for the day of the contest, and bass trombonist Billy Lidell excelled himself with an electric blue mohecan haircut (picture to follow, if you haven't already seen it on the 6 o'clock news)! And the crowd went wild...

Another Triumph at "Brass in the Park" (August 2002)

Jedforest Instrumental Band recorded yet another victory on Saturday 31st August in the Brass in the Park Competition, held in Newtongrange Park, Newtongrange. Playing the march Knight Templar, by George Allan, and an arrangement of the hymn tune Repton by the band's principal cornet, Cameron Mabon, Jedforest topped the fourth section by 5 clear points. The victory is the band's 8th first place in ten contests. In a memorable day for the band, David Lightbody (soprano cornet) picked up the award for the best soloist with his stunning performance of Leoncavallo's aria On with the Motley. In so doing, David beat soloists from across Scotland. Compere Alan McLaren commented that it was no surprise that David won the award, as his blistering performance had "raised the roof"! The award is David's second in as many contests. He won the award for the best instrumentalist at the Carnegie Contest in April.
The Jedforest Junior Band also performed well, playing Alan Fernie's well loved arrangement of Deep Harmony and Rimmer's famous march, Slaidburn. Although disappointed not to retain the title they won last year in the "non-contesting band" division, the junior players nevertheless enjoyed their day out, and were able to listen to many of the other band's performances.

Jungle Book a hit at Fancy Dress Parade (July 2002)

The band impressed the crowds at the Jethart Callant's Festival Parade on Friday 12th July. The band marched behind a banner illustrated with characters from the film, and all the players dressed as jungle creatures. As the band marched along, we played the "Bare Necessities" and "Colonel Hathi's March", to great applause from the crowds. The B Band members joined the senior band for this special occasion, and our efforts were rewarded with first prize in the fancy dress competition!

Jedforest players excel at NYBBS (July 2002)

Several young players from

Jedforest Instrumental Band have been enjoying playing for the National Youth Brass Band of Scotland. The NYBBS reserve band course took place in St. Andrews from 8th to 14th July. From Jedforest, Katy Young played principal cornet and Stuart Black was second man down on the front row. Robert Fraser led the 2nd baritone section, and Ali Young was the principal percussionist. For all four, it was the first time they had attended the NYBBS. Meanwhile, Tamir Karp joined the senior National Youth Band for their tour of Bavaria (14th to 20th July). Tamir, one of the youngest in the NYBBS, played Repiano cornet. It was a great privilege for him to play under the baton of banding legend, Richard Evans.
Band pay their respects to John Lindsay (June 2002)

The band turned out in full to play at the funeral of John Lindsay, for two years a percussionist with the band, and a well loved and respected musician in the Borders and further afield. The band played music specially requested by John, including an arrangement of the funeral march from Chopin's Piano Sonata Op. 35.

Leigh-Anne takes B Band trophy! (June 2002)

Leigh-Anne Stewart has been declared the B Band's most improved player for 2001-02. Leigh-Anne was presented with a cup at the band's Summer Concert. Leigh-Anne is a diligent attender and doea a lot of work at home to improve her playing. If she continues to improve at her current rate, she will be giving the senior band horn players a run for their money in no time. The inaugural recipient of the trophy was Robert Fraser (awarded the cup in December 2001), the B Band's 1st baritone player. The cup will next be awarded at the band's Christmas Concert in December. To be in with a chance of winning, get practising!

Triumph at Carnegie Contest (April 2002)

The

Jedforest Instrumental Band continued its winning ways by finishing first at the Carnegie Contest in Dunfermline on Saturday 20th April. Playing Bryan Kelly's Divertimento, the band produced a musical performance to fend off stiff competition from the best of the rest, winning by a margin of three points over the current Scottish Champions! Adjudicators Duncan Beckley and David Read said that there were Jedforest were clear winners, and praised the band's good sound and the interpretation of conductor, Alan Fernie. David Lightbody, the band's star soprano player, lifted the prize for the best instrumentalist, which came as no surprise to anyone in the hall after his blistering performance. Divertimento is a piece that really tests the soprano player, with many lyrical solos and some dazzling high range work. David truly stamped his authority on the part, and thoroughly deserved the praise of the adjudicators. The victory at Dunfermline continues the band's recent run of contest success. In fact, the band has finished first or second at every contest it has entered in the last eighteen months. Players are now looking forward to preparing for the National Finals in Torquay in September.
National Finals Beckon! (March 2002)

Jedforest Instrumental Band took second place at the Scottish Championships in Motherwell on Saturday 9th March, with a polished performance of the set test-piece, Suite in B Flat (Gordon Jacob). The result is the band's highest placing at the Scottish Championships for more than thirty years. Along with first-placed Lochgelly, Jedforest will represent Scotland at the British Championships in Torquay in September (playing A Cambrian Suite by Michael Ball) - a weekend to look forward to! Adjudicator Markus Bach, President of the European Brass Band Association, praised the band's fine sound and the musical leadership of conductor, Alan Fernie

2004-2005

On Thursday 21st July, siteworks started for the creation of the new Bandstand and Park in the centre of Jedburgh, to commemorate the band's 150th anniversary. The initial work of levelling a large platform in the slightly sloping site was carried out by local firm JMS Harkin Constuction, free of charge. The foundations will shortly be dug and the base concreted, followed by construction of the Bandstand itself and the planting of a hedge around the new park area.

National Brass Week : 20-29 May 2005

Brass Alive 2005 was a great success for the band. We had an exhibition of band photos going back to 1860 in a shop window in Mercat Square. We had an almost full Town Hall for our concert featuring the brilliant cornet soloist, Russell Gray. We played to many busloads of tourists at Carter Bar. The Provost cut the inaugural sod for our new Bandstand. We played a Songs of Praise for an appreciative congregation in Kelso Old parish Church, in support of Christian Aid. Abbey Brass played to packed gymn halls in Parkside and Howdenburn Primary Schools, and 70 people attended their Open practice, with 21 young people signing up to join the Training Band.

Scottish Championships on 12 March 2005 in Caird Hall, Dundee

Playing the very difficult Variations for Brass Band by Vaughan Williams, we came 6th out of 12 in the Second Section in the 100th Scottish Championships to be held. This is a very creditable result for our first Scottish Championships in the Second Section. We had played much better in rehearsals, but that is often the case. Many thanks to Alan Fernie from all the players for his inspired musical direction. We're grateful to the Steeple Church for the use of their hall for a pre-contest practice (and thanks to Brenda for our welcome refreshments on arrival). Best wishes to former player Cyril McLaren (who started playing some 75 years ago and had to give up just a couple of years ago), who came with us for the day. He fell and was in pain all day, later found to be a cracked bone in his wrist. Nevertheless, he enjoyed attending the Scottish Championships and was pleased with the result for Jedforest. We had an enjoyable day, and we're looking forward to next year's championships.

Scottish Open Solo & Ensemble Championships 2005

The results of the Open Ensemble contest were : 1st Whitburn, 2nd Dalmellington, 3rd Jedforest The Jedforest quartet consisted of David Sutherland (cornet), John Kirk (cornet), Hamish McRitchie (tenor horn), Jo Stark (euphonium). Congratulations from the rest of the band! Congratulations also to cornet John Kirk (the only non-Championship soloist) who appeared creditably up the results list.

Scottish Junior Solo & Ensemble Championships 2005

Young Jedforest players faced stiff competition from some of the best young players in Scotland, as they preformed to a large audience at the Howden Park Centre in Livingstone on Saturday 5th February. Jedforest players competing were :
Junior Solos: (under 12) Rory McRitchie, Amy Sutherland and Rose Hadshar
Intermediate Solos: (12-15) Patrick Fraser, Robert Fraser
Youth Solos:(16-21) Stuart Black
Intermediate Quartet: Douglas McGovern, Leigh-Anne Stewart, Patrick Fraser, Robert Fraser

All of the young players deserve great credit for their performances, and many positive and encouraging comments were given by adjudicator Steven Mead.

Good results for Jedforest young players at Junior Solo/Ensemble Qualifiers

At the Borders qualifying heat for the Junior section of the Scottish Solo and Ensemble Championships, held on Sunday 23rd January in Howdenburn School, our soloists did well once again. In the Junior Solos, our players came 1st (Rose Hadshar), 2nd (Rory McRitchie), and 3rd (Amy Sutherland). In the Intermediate Ensembles, a Jedforest quartet was 1st (Douglas McGovern, Patrick Fraser, Robert Fraser, Leigh-Anne Stewart). In the Intermediate Solos, our players came 2nd (Patrick Fraser) and 4th (Robert Fraser). In the Youth Solos, our players came 3rd (Stuart Black) and 4th= (Mark Caswell) All the qualifiers will now go forward to compete at the Scottish Solo and Ensemble Championships on 5th February in Livingstone.

Donation to Tsunami Disaster Appeal

Jedforest made an early start towards support for the South-East Asia tragedy, by collecting for the Tsunami Disaster Appeal during our annual New Year's Day round the town march in Jedburgh. Despite the bad weather, many people came out of their houses to put money in our collecting boxes. The band made the collection up to £300 which was sent to Mercy Corps Scotland. A Mercy Corps team was among the first humanitarian workers to gain entry into Banda Aceh, an area of Indonesia that's been closed off to the world for years due to civil war, and which has very little communications and infrastructure, making relief efforts especially challenging. Mercy Corps efforts in Aceh are focusing on shelter, water purification, sanitation and delivery of essential items, as well as continually evaluating the greatest needs of survivors. At the time of our fund-raising on 1st January, there were 19 emergency staff deployed to affected areas of Indonesia, including Aceh, with more on the way since then.

A Great New Year's Day March

This year saw our largest band for many years. At 33 players, we were augmented by 8 friends from the Manchester area, many of whom had visited us previously. Our thanks to Alan, Andre, Helen, Malcolm, Sarah, Simon, Simone, and Sonia for spending New Year with us. Haste ye back. En route, we collected for the Tsunami Disaster Appeal. Thanks to Pat and Jean for taking round the collecting boxes. At 10am, we started playing in cold but dry weather outside Andy Whitecross's house, marching along Howden Road and Howden Drive to our first stop at George Miller's, where we were served with a very welcome mulled wine. Then we marched along to Howdenburn Court and refreshments at David Lightbody's (with thanks to Joyce and Billy), then marched down to Alan Jack's for more refreshments (thanks to Nicola especially for the black pudding rolls). We then marched along Blair Avenue to play at The Bountrees, and then along Hartigge Road to David Sutherland's for soup and bacon and sausage rolls (thank you Beth). A march via the steep hill over Forthill took us to the main A68, where we formed up for the traditional "New Colonial" to Townfoot. A short march then took us from The Tavern to the British Legion inside which we played some marches and were served our usual free drink. Finally, we marched up High Street in heavy rain to the traditional "Our Director" via The Square to The Cannon and the Band Hall across the road, where we arrived about 2pm. The rest of the day saw celebrations continuing in The Cannon and various houses. Altogether, a very enjoyable and satisfying day.

Success for Jedforest at Borders Contest.

Both of the Jedforest bands enjoyed success in the Borders Entertainment Contest on Saturday 13th November with Jedforest Instrumental Band being the overall winner, and Abbey Brass (Jedforest) coming 2nd in the 4th Section. The town of Jedburgh welcomed 15 brass bands to compete in the Borders Entertainment Contest held at the Town Hall, with bands travelling from as far afield as Cumbria and Campbeltown. This year's contest saw Jedforest Instrumental competing in the 2nd Section for the second time following their promotion, and they were playing against strong competition from other 2nd Section bands St Ronan's Silver Band, Lochgelly Band and Flimby Saxhorn Silver Band (Cumbria). Jedforest's programme commenced with the theme from the TV series 'The Six Million Dollar Man' which is a difficult technical piece, followed by an Alan Fernie arrangement of 'Wild Mountain Thyme' featuring 16 year old star Flugel Horn player Stuart Black. The tempo of the programme then moved up a gear with a performance of the 'Ritual Fire Dance' by Manuel de Falla which was praised by the adjudicators for its faithful adherence to the final very hectic tempo. The following item 'When the Saints Go Marching In' unusually included the band in full voice singing the chorus. The culmination of Jedforest's programme was Elsa's Procession to the Minster (Wagner) which gradually built from a very quiet beginning to a tremendous climax, and received an enthusiastic and emotional response from the audience.
For the first time ever Jedforest had two bands in the contest, with the newly named Abbey Brass (Jedforest) comprising junior and adult players. Competing for the first time, its excellent performance placed it 2nd in the 4th Section. In a highly entertaining programme under the baton of bandmaster Cameron Mabon the band played the 'Theme from the Muppet Show' (featuring a mystery live muppet), a 'James Bond Theme Collection', the pop hit 'Handbags and Gladrags' and finished with the 'Thunderbirds March'. After a full day of performances the Town Hall was packed with bands and supporters, eagerly awaiting the results from the adjudicators. The Jedforest contingent raised the rafters when they were awarded best 2nd Section Band, and overall winner, being awarded the First Prize of the Scottish Borders Trophy, narrowly beating rivals St Ronan's Silver Band who took the Entertainment Prize. Abbey Brass (Jedforest) were also delighted to secure a creditable 2nd place (out of 4 competing bands) in the 4th Section, and were placed 4th in the Entertainment Section rankings.
Jedforest Instrumental would like to thank the townspeople and businesses in Jedburgh for their support in hosting this event, and also a special thank you to Alan Fernie (Musical Director), and Cameron Mabon (Bandmaster) for their hard work and enthusiasm which has well and truly given Jedburgh a brass band organisation to be proud of.

In the 2nd Section! (November 2004)

For the first time in its 150 year history, J I B are now in the 2nd Section. Fittingly, promotion was achieved in the month the band was formed in November 1854.

Jedforest is Scottish 3rd Section "Band of the Year" (November 2004)

At a ceremony at the Scottish Open on Sunday 28th November in Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, the Band of the Year banner was presented by Alan McLaren, President of the Scottish Brass Band Association, to Alan Fernie and Cameron Mabon on behalf of the band. The award was made on the basis of contest results over the past 12 months, J I B having led the rankings from the start of the year and emerging a clear winner. Jedforest soloists sweep the boards at Slow Melody Competition (October 2004) At the Borders Slow Melody Competition held in Selkirk on Sunday 3rd October, our soloists won 12 places, including the Open Quartet (1st), the under 10s (1st, 2nd, 3rd), the 10-12s (1st, 2nd, 3rd), the 12-14's (1st, 2nd, 3rd), the 14-18s (2nd) and the Open Solo (3rd). Jedforest comes 10th out of 19 bands at British Championships in Harrogate (September 2004).

Bands successful at Brass in the Park (August 2004)

Jedforest Instrumental Band took the Brass in the Park brass band contest by storm this weekend, winning no less than four trophies in what has become one of Scotland's premier and best attended Brass Band Contests. The 25 strong Jedforest Junior Band (Aged 9-16 years) overcame strong competition from four other junior bands to win the Development Section for the second year in a row. The Junior Band members really put on a great show, under the baton of their conductor Cameron Mabon. They performed four pieces, a 'James Bond Theme Collection', 'The Lion King', 'Tequila' and the theme from 'Scooby Doo'! The programme featured some fine solo playing by Leigh-Anne Stewart (Tenor Horn), Robert Fraser (Trombone), and Claire Younger (Solo Cornet). The Senior Band had their most successful result to date at Brass in the Park, being placed 3rd overall out of the twenty bands competing. They also won best 3rd Section Band for the second year in a row. Jedforest, conducted by Musical Director Alan Fernie, opened with the contest match 'The Cossack' by William Rimmer, followed by an arrangement of the hymn 'Love Unknown'. The final part of Jedforest's programme featured star Soprano Cornet player David Lightbody, playing Phillip Sparkes' 'Flowerdale', which received tremendous applause from the audience, and won David the title of Best Senior Soloist for the 2nd time in three years!

2011

The JIB held its annual Christmas Concert to a packed Jedburgh Town Hall on Sat 17th Dec.

The Band was accompanied by Abbey Brass, the Future Group and the Band Buddies and together they put on a memorable show.

All the Junior bands showcased there latests works much to the delights of the large audience and with the senior band laying on the Festive cheer, the Audience left with all the joys of the Festive Spirit.

Such Numbers as Away in a Manger, O Holy Night and In the Bleak Mid Winter set a great Christmas scene and followed by excerpts of Santa Baby, Fairy tale of New York and I Wish it could be Christmas everyday, had everyone singing along.

The Band would like to thank all the fund raisers and bar staff for their continued and valued support and to Jim Terrace and Alan Fernie for guesting with the band.

The Band recently held a days fundraising at the Jedburgh Co-op Superstore with Christmas Carols being played by the JIB and Customer bag packing being carried out at the tills by members and parents of Abbey Brass.

A GRAND TOTAL OF £870 was raised so a huge thank you goes to all who were involved and to the Co-op Store Jedburgh for their kind hospitality.

Abbey Brass (Jedforest) claimed another Gold Award at this Years Scottish Youth Championships in Perth.
There were a total of 11 bands in their section, unfortunately the band didn't quite manage to take home the Trophy, that honour went to the Perth and Kinross Junior School Band but a cracking performance from the band meant they claimed one of the top awards of the day.

This wasn't the only success for the JIB as three of the bands players were also involved the previous day playing for the Scottish Borders Youth Band in the Senior Development Section. Tammie Jack, Emma Stainer and Naomi Henderson help the Borders band retain the title for a second year.

The JIB walked away from the Borders contest on Saturday 5th November with the 3rd section title after wowing the large audience with a fun-packed and hugely entertaining programme.

Playing no. 15 out of 18 bands, the band opened their programme with a fabulous arrangement by Philip Harper of the Barry Manilow classic 'Copacabana'. With its vocal opening, the band quickly had the audience's full attention.

Next, the band showed off its quality Solo Horn player, Hamish McRitchie, by playing the Goff Richard's piece 'Demelza'. A beautiful Solo which Hamish played with style and composure.

The Band then turned the clock back by playing a piece that was written in th 1920's called 'Mill In the Dale'. This tells the story of mill workers and their working day, from listening to the bird song on the way to work to the sounds of the mill workings and the songs and whistles of the happy work force. A great fun piece

The band closed its programme with the Salvation Army piece ' Glorifico Aeternium'. This was a big number for the band and they had put a lot of hard work into this piece and pulled it off well.

Overall a hugely entertaining programme that tested the band and showed off the hard work that was put into it by all the players and MD Phil Rosier.

THANK YOU

The JIB would like to thank Alison Reid (Langholm Town), John Dickson (St Davids Brass) and Alan Fernie for guesting with us at the contest.

The band finished a credible 9th overall the full results are as follows.....

Result:
Adjudicators: Stan Lippeatt & Archie Hutchison

1. Tullis Russell Mills (Martyn Ramsey)
2. Coalburn Silver (Gareth Bowman)
3. Croy Silver (Kenneth Blackwood)
4. Irvine & Dreghorn (John Boax)
5. Shotts St. Patrick's (Michael Marzella)
6. Dunaskin Doon (John Boax)
7. St. Ronan's Silver (David Robb)
8. Annan Town (David Shanks)
9. Jedforest Instrumental (Phil Rosier)
10. Buckhaven & Methil Miners (David Neil)
11. Langholm Town (Alan Fernie)
12. Peebles Silver (Alex Knox)
13. Hawick Saxhorn (Alan Fernie)
14. Dumfries Town (Peter Heyes)
15. Selkirk Silver (Colin Kemp)
16. Dunfermline Town (Andy Shaw)
17. Dysart Colliery (Gavin Lindsay)
18. Penicuik Silver (Stuart Black)

Winners: Tullis Russell Mills (£150)
Entertainment Prize: Croy Silver (£150)
Best Second Section Band: Tullis Russell Mills (£100)
Best Third Section Band: Jedforest Instrumental (£100)
Best Fourth Section Band: Hawick Saxhorn (£100)
Highest placed Borders Band: St Ronan’s Silver

Best Soloist: Amy Leitch (Irvine & Dreghorn)
Best Instrumentalist: Bass Trombone (Coalburn Silver)
Best Solo Cornet: Dunaskin Doon Band
Best Basses: Shotts St. Patrick’s Band
Best Percussion: Tullis Russell Mills Band

Youth Section Bands: Peebles Juniors, St. Ronan’s Future, Abbey Brass (Jedforest), Langholm Juniors, Hawick Saxhorn Youth

In a Brass Banding first, the Contest held an open adjudication with 2 adjudicators, Archie Hutcheson and Stan Lippeatt. Stan was adjudicating as normal but Archie was trailing a new idea, supported by SBBA, by talking his remarks over a recording of the bands as they played.

Click the Link to hear this unique adjudication.
Borders 2011

We also have videos of our performance on the day, so for your viewing pleasure please just click on the links below.

Copacabana

http://youtu.be/jt1wVA7NqKQ

DEMELZA
http://youtu.be/-qAUCLbRKTE

MILL IN THE DALE
http://youtu.be/AZguwPkdA-k

GLORIFICO
http://http://youtu.be/peUV89oHTY4

The Jedforest Instrumental and Abbey Brass bands are both taking part in the 11th annual Borders Entertainment Contest which this year is being held for the first time in the Buccleuch Centre Langholm .

The Senior Band has to play a short 15min program of their own choice to try and impress 2 adjudicators to become the Borders Entertainment Champions 2011

Last year the Band was awarded Best 3rd Section Band, Best percussion and Highest placed Borders Band so they have a tough task to emulate last years performance.

Abbey Brass, hot off a famous win at Brass in the Park look to continue their winning ways with another title in Langholm.

The Band will be holding a Concert in the Jedburgh Town Hall on Fri 21st Oct. The Band will be conducted by MD Phil Rosier and will be showcasing some of the music that it will be performing at the forth coming Borders Entertainment Contest. Alongside the band as always will be Abbey Brass (Jedforest) Conducted by Rob Hume and after their recent success at Brass in the Park they are in top Tune.

Tickets are priced at £4 and £5 and are available here Online from the contacts page, Band Members, Paws and Claws pet shop, and From Me To You card shop

Doors Open at 7pm for a 7.30pm start. A fully Licenced Bar and Table Service will be provided so COME ALONG for a great night out!

2012

The JIB has just been announced the Scottish Brass Band Association's 3rd Section band of the year for 2012.

The annual award is given to the band who have been the most consistant over the contesting year and with the JIB winning the Scottish Championships and claiming a fantastic 5th place at the National Championships of Great Britain, these results help us on our way to taking the top spot from runners up Selkirk Silver..

The bands President, John Mabon added,

"This award is a recognition of the dedication throughout the year of the band members and the diligent approach adopted by the band's conductors working with professional musical director Phil Rosier."

The Band will now be promoted back to the 2nd Section from Jan 1st 2013 and will soon be in preparations for the forth coming Scottish Championships in March.

The JIB's annual Christmas Concert will this year be held on Sat 22nd Dec at 7.30pm in the Jedburgh Town Hall.

As always the Band will be supported by the Abbey Brass.

Conducted by MD Phil Rosier the concert will be full of christmas cheer and the spirit will be provided by our fully licenced bar complete will table service.

Tickets are priced at £5/£4 and are available from 'From me to you' on the high street, Band members or click Contact to book online.

Come along for a foot stamping Christmas cheese fest.

Doors open 7pm

The JIB and Abbey Brass will be out in force over the festive period doing some much needed fundraising. You can find us in the Jedburgh Co-op on Sat 15th Dec where we will be playing Christmas Carols and packing bags.

We will also be in the Foyer of Sainsburys in Kelso on Sun 23rd as well as being out and about in Jedburgh over the coming few weeks.

Listen Out and give us a shout.

On Sat 3rd of Nov the JIB traveled the short distance to Selkirk to take part in this years Borders Entertainment Contest.

The band had entered this contest in great spirits having been unbeaten in Scotland in the 3rd Section for over a year and by playing their own choice of entertaining music the band felt they could put in another big performance.

Unfortunately, this year the band could not make it a hat trick of titles and were piped to the post by a fine performance by host band Selkirk Silver finishing 2nd in the 3rd Section and 9th overall.

For this years challenge the band opened their programme with a fabulous arrangement by L Baker of Lional Riches classic hit 'All Night Long' following that up with the fantastic Soprano Cornet solo 'Flowerdale' played by the bands Sop player David Lightbody. The very descriptive 'Bees a Buzzin' by Edrich Seibert went down well with the audience and the band finished their program by playing the classic queen track 'innuendo' arr by Meechan.

Although the judges enjoyed the performance they felt it was perhaps a little untidy and that a few tuning issues spoiled the overall picture.

To hear the whole performance along with adjudicator Paul Drurys comments
click here http://snd.sc/YPbpRN

Full Results

First Prize: The Scottish Borders Trophy & £150 : Coalburn
Entertainment Prize: The Queen's Head Inn Shield & £150: Durham Miners Best Second Section Band: The Souter Ronnie Trophy & £100 : Coalburn
Best Third Section Band: The John A. Wilson Memorial Trophy & £100 : Selkirk
Best Fourth Section Band: The Harry Pearce Memorial Trophy & £100 : Tullis Intermediate
Highest placed Borders Band: St Ronan's Bicentenary Trophy : Selkirk
Best Soloist: The Walter Nichol Memorial Trophy & Medal : Soprano, Kilmarnock
Best Instrumentalist : The Jedforest Instrumental Band 150th Anniversary Trophy & Medal : Flugel, Coalburn
Best Solo Cornet : The Dave Young Trophy & Medal: Kilmarnock
Best Basses : The Bert Neil Memorial Quaich : Tullis Russell Mills
Best Percussion : The Jenny Corbett Memorial Cup: Coalburn

PD -Paul Drury - GE Gordan Evans - Music Adjudicators - Open Adjudication
Position - Total - P D - G E - Band Conductor - Section - Draw

1 - 3 1 2 Coalburn Gareth Bowman 2 5
2 - 4 3 1 Kilmarnock Raymond Tennant 2 6
3 - 6 2 4 Tullis Martyn Ramsay 2 22
4 - 7 4 3 Durham Miners Neil Davies 2 12
5 - 13 8 5 Shotts Paul McKelvie 2 15
6 - 15 7 8 Selkirk Alan Fernie 3 11
7 - 15 5 10 Irvine John Boax 2 18
8 - 17 6 11 Annan David Shanks 2 8
9 - 18 9 9 Jedforest Philip Rosier 3 20
10 - 21 15 6 Langholm Alan Fernie 3 7
11 - 23 16 7 Tullis Intermediate Steven Craig 4 16
12 - 24 12 12 St Davids John Dickson 2 17
13- 26 11 15 St Ronans David Robb 2 9
14 - 28 14 14 Peebles Stephen Baird 3 2
15- 29 10 19 Rushen John Kinley 4 21
16- 30 13 17 Buckhaven David Neil 3 19
17 - 31 18 13 Jayess Newbiggin' Andrew Griffiths 4 14
18 - 33 17 16 Dumfries Peter Heyes 3 10
19 - 37 19 18 Hawick Alan Fernie 4 4
20 - 40 20 20 Queensferry James Anderson 4 13
21 - 42 21 21 Penicuik Stuart Black 4 3

The 12th annual Borders Entertainment Contest will make its third visit to Selkirk on Saturday 3rd November, when the JIB will be amongst a record 22 competitors that will battle it out for the Scottish Borders Trophy.

The Scottish Borders Brass Band Association (SBBBA) is organising the exciting event, which will be held in the town’s Victoria Hall, with the first band taking to the stage at 9.15am and with the final performance around 6.50pm.

As well as the JIB, other local Border bands such as Hawick, Langholm, Peebles, Selkirk and St. Ronan’s will battle against rivals from both sides of Hadrian’s Wall, and from across the short stretch of Irish Sea, with each competitor giving a 15 minute concert programme to try and tickle the fancy of judges, Paul Drury and Gordon Evans.

Association Chairman Alan Fernie added: "We are delighted with the fantastic entry of 22 bands from all over Scotland, the North East of England and even the Isle of Man. The contest promises to be a great day's entertainment in a first class hall and will bring many visitors to the region."

The contest is confined to Second, Third and Fourth Section bands with a host of ensemble and individual prizes up for grabs.

All this and it only costs £3.50 (£2.50 concessions) to go along and enjoy a full day of brass band entertainment.

The JIB took a fantastic 5th place at the National Brass Band Championships of Great Britain held over the weekend of 22-23 September in the Centaur hall in Cheltenham Racecourse.

A Superb result for the band (the highest placing of any Scottish Band at this Years Championships.) and certainly the best result in the bands 158 years.

To top it all, our star flugel player, Stuart Black, walked away with the best Instrumentalist award for a stunning performance of Richard Huw Coles ''Three Ancient Customs'.

Playing off of the tricky and infamous No1 draw, JIB opened the days contesting by playing the National Anthem and then got down to business and set the early pace for the others to beat and by the end of the day only 4 of the 18 bands competing managed to do that.

JIBs MD Phil Rosier commented, "It was a challenge to prepare the piece because it needed a lot of careful thought and application to be authentic to its various styles. The band however rose again to the challenge and performed with conviction and finesse especially with such an early draw".

To listen to the live performance on the day (including the National Anthem)
please click here. http://snd.sc/On4fDe

The competition was won by the Hitchin band from the London and Southern Counties conducted by, Craig Patterson.

For full results click here

http://http://http://www.4barsrest.com/news/detail.asp?id=15791#.UGA-jMW0L68

Although a few players in the band felt we could have played better there were a couple of pundits in the hall that though we may just sneak a higher place.

A Massive thanks goes to Nicola Douglas, Maddie Pullan, Alan Fernie, Jacqueline Elliot and of course MD Phil Rosier.

After a busy few months for the Band with local events the JIB is now in full rehersals for the forth coming British Championships being held in the Grand Concert Hall at the Cheltenham Racecourse

The Band will be traveling down to Cheltenham on Sat 22nd September and will be on stage on Sunday 23rd.

Playing a new piece called ‘Three Ancient Customs’ by R Huw Cole, the talented composer and conductor who has worked in and around Wales and the West of England over the past decade will provide a colourfull test in the Third Section.

The work celebrates the traditions and customs of the hinterland of the Welsh borders including ‘Cwrw Bach’ (‘Small Beer’) ‘Mari Lwyd’ and ‘Wassail’.

The two Welsh elements of the work were featured for his suite, ‘Two Ancient Welsh Customs’ which was performed at the John Golland Composition Awards at the RNCM Festival of Brass in 2011.

Over the weekend of the 25th-27th May 2012, Jedforest Instrumental band hosted their annual spring concert, with guest soloist Les Neish in Jedburgh Town Hall

Les was brought in to not only inspire the bands senior players with his virtuoso playing but to more importantly help inspire the youngsters in the JIB organisation and show them what they could achieve should they decide to stick at being part of a Brass Band.

The weekend began with a rehearsal with Les and the senior band on the where Les wowed the band with his musicianship and technique in the 4 pieces he would play with the band in the concert the next night.

Saturday morning then saw 30 of the bands youngsters turn up at the band hall for a 9.30 start to spend the morning with Les in one of his fun filled workshops. The kids were treated to a morning of various activities from breathing exercises, to learning how to play Twinkle, Twinkle on the mouthpiece to a massed performance of African Funk by Alan Fernie. One of the bands rising young stars said of the mornings session “ I really enjoyed the workshop with Les. It was good to learn a bit about everything rather than just jumping straight into playing”

7.30pm came round and the band took to the stage in front of just over 200 people with MD Phil Rosier opening with the Fanfare from Rocky as their opening number to which the recent trophies that have been one (from the Borders Entertainment and the Scottish championships) were paraded in. The rest of the first half was filled with such classics as Ejala, the March from the pines of Rome and a reprise of the bands winning performance of Philip Harpers 3rd Section test piece Olympus. Les also took to the stage and wowed the audience with Monti’s classic Czardas and Paul Lovvatt – Coopers beautiful composition Songs for the Skies.

Next Up was the bands beginner group and their MD Stuart Black containing kids that have been playing anywhere from 3 months to a year. A group set up to bring in new kids and encourage them at the start of their journey through the Jedforest Instrumental ranks. Their program consisted of such entertaining repertoire as Batman and Cheesy Feet Rock.

In a small change to the program, Les then returned to the stage to conduct a massed band performance of all the youngsters under the JIB wing in an official performance of African Funk, to highlight the great work the kids and Les had done that morning in the workshop.

The bands Youth band (Abbey Brass) then took to the stage to showcase the great work that they have been doing under their MD Rob Hume. Featuring different styles of music arranged for the band by their MD ranging from Mozart to Coldplay. Truly highlighting that the youth scene in Jedburgh is thriving.

After the Interval the band filled their 2nd half with a bigger work in the form of Peter Grahams Windows of the world. Featuring some high class solo playing (most noticeably from Dave Higgnett on trumpet and Alan Currie on drums) Les then took to the stage with the band again, firstly to perform Luc Vertomen’s arrangement of the beautiful duet the prayer (made famous by Celline Dion and Andrea Bocelli) For this the bands Principal Euphonium player Scott Renwick joined Les as the pair produced a beautiful rendition of this great arrangement. This was then followed by Les showing that Bass players can surprise us all by treating the audience to a superb rendition of the High tempo number “ Hora Staccato”

The audience were left shouting for more to which the band replied with an entertaining rendition of Ray Farr’s “Riverdance” featuring some great playing from the hole band as well as some dodgy Irish dancing from their Principal Cornet and Flugel players, bringing the hugely successful and entertaining evening to a close and sending the audience home buzzing about the nights entertainment.

The Sunday Morning then saw the turn of the senior players to experience one of Les’s fun filled sessions. The senior bands Euphonium/Baritone and Bass players came to the band hall to pick the brains of a man the certainly know his stuff for this type off instrument. They were taken through various warm up/Breathing and general practice techniques to aid their playing and home practice. They then finished of the morning with a chance to play along side Les in some Tuba Quartets that he had brought along for them to try. Senior band Bb Bass star Randy Hudson said “ I’ve have been playing Bass for almost forty years now and I find it amazing how much I have learned in the space of a weekend in comparison”

That then rounded of an extremely entertaining, fun and inspiring weekend for everyone involved at Jedforest Instrumental band. Thanks to Les and Besson, everyone from youngsters to Adults seem to come away from the weekend having learned something and hopefully have been inspired to continue the bands progression and legacy for many years to come.

On Sat 28th of April the JIB held a fund raising Clean up around the town of Jedburgh.

The members of JIB were all sponsored by towns folk and at 9 am they took to the streets of Jed.

Splitting in to small teams the Band covered the centre of town and 3hrs later, had collected over 17 full bags of litter from the streets and riverside.

The total hasn't been finalised yet but an early estimate is said to be around the 4-5 hundred pounds mark which will go a long way in helping the band raise the funds to represent Scotland at the National Finals in Cheltenham later this year.

A HUGE thanks to all the workers and sponsors who took part in the mornings clean up.

Neish to pay a visit to Scottish champs

On Sat 26th of May, the JIB will hold their Spring concert in the Jedburgh Town Hall and will feature a very special guest.

Besson Tuba artist Les Neish will feature as the bands guest soloist for the evening performing 3 Solos and a duet with our very own Solo Euphonium Scott Renwick.

As well as being a Besson artist, member of the famous Brass Band Battle Creek and world renowned ambassador for the Tuba, he is also one of the most sought after tutors and workshop leaders around. Whilst here he will be spending some time with all of the younger players in the bands set up on the Saturday morning, leading them through a morning of fun and learning culminating in a special performance which may make it's way to the concert later that evening.
As well as all this round the weekend off, some of the adult members of JIB will get to spend some time with Les in a master class on the Sunday morning where they can pick the Brains of a man who as achieved so much in his career already.

As well as Les, the newly crowned Scottish 3rd Section Champions will play something for all and will be supported as always by Abbey Brass and the Band Buddies.

Tickets are priced at £4 and £5 and are available here Online from the Contacts page, Band Members, Paws and Claws pet shop, and From Me To You card shop

Doors Open at 7pm for a 7.30pm start. A fully Licenced Bar and Table Service will be provided so COME ALONG for a great night out!

On sat 10th March the JIB lifted the 3rd section Scottish Championship title with a dazzling performance of Philip Harpers 'OLYMPUS', a piece which was written to celebrate the 2012 London Olympic games and depicts scenes of chariot races and the temples of the Greek gods.

Playing no.4 of 12 bands the JIBs performance stood out from the rest of the field and set the marker that the other bands couldn't quite match on the day resulting in a clear 2 point margin over runners up Perthshire Brass.

The Adjudicators John Doyle and David Thornton were not even born when Jedforest last won a Scottish title, but had no doubt that this one was well deserved.

John told 4barsrest.com: "The winners were very good indeed. They made a fine, well balanced band sound, did all the basics very well and made our decision an easy one."

MD Phil Rosier commented " The strong performance at the Scottish Nationals was due to the extensive hard work done in the preparation by individuals and everyone else involved. The band performed the piece in the spirit it was intended to be played and it was a delight to hear."

Tammie collects the trophies from the Adjudicators: David Thornton & John Doyle

This is the first national title the band has won since 1968 and also means promotion back the 2nd section and an invitation to represent Scotland at the National Championships of Great Britain held at the Cheltenham Race course in September.

An emotional band secretary Nicola Currie added "We are delighted with the result it is a great reward for all the team effort and individual practice that's been put in since Christmas. A lot of credit must go to our MD Phil Rosier who guided the band on their journey to becoming Scottish Champions."

FULL RESULTS

Third Section:
Saturday 10th March

Test Piece: 'Olympus' - Philip Harper
Draw: Pre-drawn
Commenced: 10.00am

Adjudicators: David Thornton & John Doyle

1. Jedforest Instrumental* (Phil Rosier) 185 (4)*
2. Perthshire Brass* (George D. Annan) 183 (6)*
3. Selkirk Silver (Alan Fernie) 181 (8)
4. Dumfries Town (Peter Heyes) 180 (11)
5. MacTaggart Scott (Mark Bell) 179 (3)
6. Langholm Town (Alan Fernie) 178 (5)
7. Buckhaven and Methil Miners (David Neil) 177 (1)
8. Peebles Burgh (Alex Knox) 175 (7)
9. Renfrew Burgh (Mark Good) 174 (9)
10. Barrhead Burgh (Brian Keachie) 173 (10)
11. Tayport Instrumental (Frank Culross) 172 (2)

The JIB recently embarked on a band training weekend in preparation for the forth coming Scottish Championships to be held in Glen Rothes Halls on sat 10th March.
This year, instead of the usual day long sectional and full band rehearsals in the band hall, the band upped sticks and headed across the border to the Northumberland town of Wooler where a full weekend of sectionals and full band rehearsals took place.

The location for this was in the function suite of the Hoseasons Wooler: Riverside Country Caravan Park, where the band was well looked after by the staff and residents.

The whole weekend got underway on the Friday evening with a full band rehearsal and then followed up at 9 am with sectionals and full band rehearsals right through to 6pm. The Band then finished off the weekend with a final 2hr full band rehearsal on the Sunday morning.

The whole weekend was well worth it and should bare well for the Championships

The Band would like the give a huge thanks to MD Phil Rosier who worked us hard for the whole weekend and of course to the wonderful staff at the Riverside Country Park, who also provided the accommodation for the band, and looked after our every needs. THANK YOU.

If you would like to check out this wonderful location please click the link below;
http://www.riverside-wooler.co.uk/

Rothes Halls

The JIB is now preparing for the forth coming Scottish Brass Band Championships, which this year will be held on Sat 10th March in the Rothes Halls in Glen Rothes, Fife.

Currently competing in the 3rd Section the Band will be playing the test piece 'Olympus' by the composer and arranger Philip Harper.

Under the leadership of MD Phil Rosier the band is looking to get back up to the 2nd Section which would also bring a trip to Cheltenham and the British National Finals in September.

Once again the band took to the streets of Jedburgh to do the annual New Years Day March around the town

Starting at 9am the Band parades round the streets only stopping to take on board some much needed refreshments supplied by friends and family of the Band.

The Band finished the March around 2.30pm with kind refreshments being supplied by the Jedburgh British Legion and the Cannon Bar.

2013