Band News

21st February 2010 :: Joint Concert with Wirral schools Concert band
The first joint concert between the Co-operative Band Crewe and the Wirral Schools' Concert Band took place at the Pacific Road Arts Centre in Birkenhead on Sunday.
Commitee member for the Crewe Band, Alan Birch, has a daughter who players clarinet at Wirral schools, so he engineered the concert giving both bands the opportunity to perform some great items in a new venue for the band. The event even heard a very early performance of the finale section of English Heritage, which will test all championship section bands at the forthcoming area contests in March.
We all... [Full Story]

20th February 2010 :: Annual Awards Presentation Night.
After a busy 2009 it was time to reflect on what was a year of babies, one or two new and old faces back in the Band and a lot of positive fund raising including the second self-produced CD made in the new bandroom. The awards evening was held, as last year, within the White Lion Pub in Crewe where a fine selection of food and ales were consumed by all.

During the afternoon many of the Band took part in the Bowling Challenge - now the most sought-after cup of the year. Last year's winner... [Full Story]

20th December 2009 :: The Co-operative Christmas Charity Concert
Dane Bank Theatre was once again full for the Co-operative Christmas Charity Concert .The concert organised by The Co-operativee Member Relations was in aid of the RNIB the Co-operatives charity for this year.
The Concert was performed by the Co-operative Band Crewe and both The Co-operative Junior and Youth Wind Bands.
"A Christmas Festival Overture" set the scene for an excelent evening of traditional Christmas music plus a few special items to keep the feet tapping.
A performance of Cats Tales by Peter Graham featured in the first set and will no doubt become a firm favourite... [Full Story]

3rd December 2009 :: Band gets new Bass Trombone for Christmas !!
The Co-operative Band (Crewe) have signed Anthony Longden formerly of Silk Brass on Bass
Trombone.
Anthony had played at Silk Brass for 12 years so his long standing commitment as a player should fit in well with our band in Crewe.
He brings with him a great personality and we all really look forward to welcoming him after the Christmas break ready for the Area and Spring festival contests. [Full Story]

30th November 2009 :: The Co-operative Bands - All in Concert
The Civic Hall in Nantwich was "full to the brim" last night as all three of the Co-operative bands of Crewe entertained, as well as launching their latest CD recording.

Emma Clarke conducted both Junior and Youth Wind Bands in a programme of popular and fun items which pleased all present. A very special item was the Youth Wind Band's performance of a new work by the senior band's composer-in-residence, Kevin Birch. Written in the style of a March and entitled "United" the piece gave the youngsters plenty to get their teeth into; well done to Kevin.[Full Story]

18th November 2009 :: Latest CD - Valero released
Copies of the CD Valero are now available to purchase - The CD includes popular items from recent concert repertoire including the title track "Valero", Four Renaissance Dances, March - Cross of Honour, Keep Smiling Through, All Night Long and many more. There is also the opportunity to hear the Co-operative Junior and Youth Wind Bands who also provide additional tracks - Great value at £5.00 [Full Story]

14th November 2009 :: A past principal comes home to the Band
It is with great pleasure that I can now announce that a past principal cornet player has re-joined the band.
Carl Gratty played with The Co-operative Band (Crewe) some years ago now, but we are very pleased to welcome him back. He brings experience and talent to the solo cornet bench at Crewe in his new position of joint principal cornet along with Tony Brookes, which gives the band a great line-up.
I believe that Tony and Carl give the band a wealth of ability to lead us all into 2010 with some top flight test pieces only... [Full Story]

8th November 2009 :: Remembrance Parades
Sunday 8th November saw The Co-operative Band Crewe leading two Remembrance Day parades.
Holmes Chapel parade is the first date on the Band calender each year and a job we are very proud to have done for many years.
Probably the largest crowd of on-lookers and participants in the parade that we have seen for many years, reflecting the number of people lost in the wars by the people of Holmes Chapel. Tony Brookes sounded the Last Post and Reveille following the laying of wreaths to the music Nimrod.
Following lunch at the rehearsal facility we were... [Full Story]

7th November 2009 :: Skelmanthorpe Slow Melody & Ensemble Contest
An enjoyable day out in Yorkshire for a restricted number of the band (due to illnesses) saw the Bass Ensemble of Peter Hough, Andy Dixon, and Alan Birch (pictured) win the Ensemble section, with The Rolfes (Andy, Fiona and Rory) coming third.

Alan also managed to get a mention in dispatches for the Open section ("It's supposed to be a SLOW Melody, so why was someone playing three movements from a suite?") before taking third place in the Veterans section with an ALLEGRO by Vivaldi!

Hear the Brilliant Basses on the Members page playing... [Full Story]

25th October 2009 :: Royal British Legion Concert
The band were proud to take part in the Concert of Remembrance at Nantwich Civic Hall last Sunday evening, hosted by the Royal British Legion - Nantwich.
We have performed regularly at their concerts for many years now and this one seemed to be as well recieved as any other in the past.
A Drum Head service opened the event, given by the chaplin of the Cheshire Police Force, with the band playing in the standards to The British Legion March and closeing the service with a fitting performance of Nimrod by Elgar.

The second... [Full Story]

4th October 2009 :: Bolsover Entertainments Contest
After being draw to play last band of the day we were all over the moon with a classey performance of our programme.
We opened up with Valero, then came a new arrangment for quartet of Ye banks and brae by Kevin Birch which featured Nicholas - Strimmer - Annette and Sarah. The dreaded solo spot fell to Sarah, with a first class performanace of The Children of Sanchez she was awarded the soloist prize from Ian Porthouse adjudicator for the contest. To calm things down we featured Annette off stage with a haunting yet beautiful piece from Kevin... [Full Story]

20th September 2009 :: Formby Hall - Atherton
The Co-operative Band (Crewe) opened the 2009 Series of concerts at The Formby Hall -Atherton on Sunday Evening on TOP form.
Fresh from a concert in Stafford the night before the band seemed to cruise through a tough programme of lip busting concert items. The band played, Valero, Children of Sanchez, Cartoon Classics, Pastorale, Prayer from Hansel and Gretal as well as Paul Lovett-Cooper's Vitae Aturnum.
The concert goers of Atherton seemed very impressed and all went well with some fine playing again from our three soloists and band alike.

The band is in excellent... [Full Story]

19th September 2009 :: 'Brass and Voices' - Stafford Gatehouse Theatre
What a great place to give a concert ! Stafford Gatehouse Theatre is a modern well presented theatre with great stage staff who always make the evening so easy for the band. This year the band were given the whole stage to play with and we seemed to fill it especially with percussion.
Our hosts were The Stone Male Voice Choir and as usual they had a great night. For myself the highlights of the concert all centred around the bands three soloists, Sarah Sparkes played The Children of Sanchez on Flugel-it was first class, Andrew Dixon gave... [Full Story]

30th August 2009 :: Congratulations
Congratulations to Annette Lewis, formerly Sparkes, and Simon Lewis on their Marriage. The band's solo horn player, Annette, and former cornet player and friend of the band, Simon, married on Friday. Well done! [Full Story]

30th August 2009 :: Brough Park
The weather wasn't so kind to us at this event this year. Even though there was a constant fine drizzle and cold wind the band gave a warming programme of all the old favourites.
Dispite the weather the audience grew as the afternoon went on, sitting around the band stand in their deck chairs wrapped in travel rugs - true August Bank Holiday weather! [Full Story]

25th July 2009 :: Bidulph by the Sea
This was our second invite to this event. 2008 was a scorcher of a day so we didn't think we would be quite so lucky this year but sure enough the sun shone yet again, after a week of pouring rain, (much to the organisers relief)
The band played a variety of easy listening music to a very recepetive audience in between 'Punch and Judy' and the 'Town Criers Contest'. Looking forward to 2010 book your Bar-B-Q now as the sun is sure to shine! [Full Story]

19th July 2009 :: A Fantastic Evening of Brass with the Fairey Band
Last night saw a truly fantastic night of brass in concert at the Victoria Centre, Crewe. The United Co-op Band (Crewe) and the world famous Fairey Band shared the stage to impress the large audience. All who were involved thouroughly enjoyed the evening.

Both bands prepared excellent programmes, United Co-op Band (Crewe) sported a lively program of Valero, soon to be featured on our new CD, All Night Long, and Children of Sanchez with outstanding solo work from the bands flugel horn player Sarah Sparkes. Other fantastic performances include Annette Sparkes playing a band favourite, Evergreen, and... [Full Story]

18th July 2009 :: The Fairey Band join forces with United Co-op Band in home town
We are very pleased to announce that the world famous Fairey Band from Stockport will be performing in a concert in Crewe this July.

The joint concert will be given at The Oakley Hall within Crewe's Victoria centre on July 18th along with United Co-op Band. The invitation to Fairey's was made shortly after this years area contest which saw Fairey's qualify for the National Brass Band Championships held in The Royal Albert Hall - London.
"Having such a top flight band as Faireys visit Crewe for possibly the first time should give us all something... [Full Story]

5th July 2009 :: Forest of Dean Brass Festival
Members of the band attended the Forest of Dean Brass Festival and had a superb day.

Results are as follows;

Open Ensemble: 1st place

Open Quartets (we were 1st, 2nd and 3rd!):
Cornet quartet: 1st
Peter Kneale: 2nd
Divertimento: 3rd
Congratulations also to Native Vale for a quartet that also got good comments!

Mixed Ages Duet, Andy & Rory Rolfe: 1st

Open Slow Melody, Nick Birch: 2nd

Open Duet, Nick Birch & Alan Birch: 3rd

... [Full Story]

27th June 2009 :: Concert : In support of Combat Stress
We very pleased to be a performing at Grove Scool Market Drayton at the invite of the Blore Heath Heritage group.
The evening was to raise monies on behalf of Combat stress.
A very receptive audience were treated to a very varied concert.Soloists A.Sparkes(tenor Horn ) ,Rory Rolfe (Cornet ) and Nick Birch (Euphonium ) all in great form .
The audience enjoyed a varied concert including favourites Valero and Four Rennaiasance Dances,and the Medley "Keep Smiling Through".
The highlight of the first half was to bring to the stand the bands Composer in Residence Mr... [Full Story]

13th June 2009 :: Summer Concert with Junior and Youth Wind Bands
PRIZE DRAW WINNERS

1ST PRIZE T.V. Hannah Edwards
2ND PRIZE BBQ Alison Sherratt
3RD PRIZE CAMERA E.J.Bennion
4TH PRIZE CO-OP VOUCHERS ... [Full Story]

31st May 2009 :: Diabetes UK - Concert - Middlewich Civic Hall
A great night of entertainment was experienced in Middlewich Civic Hall with a concert in aid of Diabetes UK .This was definately a concert of two halves !
The first half gave the audience a traditional programme including some great solo playing from Annette Sparkes on Tenor Horn who's sound in "An Untold Story" was first class ! the band also played ; I'll Walk with God, Valero, and Eleanor Rigby which were all received superbly by the very enthusiastic crowd.
During the interval a change of formation took place and United Co-op took stage in... [Full Story]

21st May 2009 :: Baby brookes arrives !!!!
Congratulations to the bands principle cornet player Tony and his partner Lesley on the birth of their first child. "Thomas David Brookes" arrived just after 5.00 am on thurs morning weighing 9lb 13ozs. Mother and baby are doing well and the New Dad in the band is over the moon.This draws the new additions to the bands extended family to a close for a while and we all wish them well .
Jef [Full Story]

17th May 2009 :: First of the babies arrives
Huge congratulations to Andy and Claire on the birth of their first child "Baby Dixon".
A beautiful baby girl came into the world at 2.32am this morning weighting 7 lb 13 ozs.
Mum Dad and baby all doing well and in need of a rest ( before band tonight ). No news on the name yet but we'll keep you posted.
Congratulations also to Hon; Uncle soft and Hon; Grandad Kev.

Well done !
Jef [Full Story]

9th May 2009 :: Contest: :Spring Festival - Blackpool
May 9th 2009 saw the band take part in the British Open Qualification Contest; 'The 2009 Senior Cup' held at the Pavilion Gardens, Blackpool, an early start for all, leaving the Bandroom at 06.30am for a rehearsal at the Solaris Centre on Blackpool's seafront at 8.15am. The draw for the contest was held at 9.00am, with the first band to commence playing at 10.00am, 20 bands in all competed in the 2009 Senior Cup competition. The build up for this contest was challenging in many ways, with one player, and one player's partner expecting babies on or around this date,... [Full Story]

2nd May 2009 :: Concert :Tunstall Salvation Army
The concert for Tunstall Salvation Army is now a firm favourite of the band and audience alike.
An excelllent venue in which to play and always a very knowledgable and appreciative audience.
The Concert commenced with "Valero" a lively big band number now a massive favourite and probably our most requested number to date.
This was followed by "Four Rennaissance Dances" and the introduction to the audience of Hannah Edwards as soloist on xylophone playing "Nola" arranged for Hannah by the bands resident composer Mr Kevin Birch .
To play to a full citadel is always... [Full Story]

21st March 2009 :: Lytham Solo & Quartet Brass Festival
Members of the band recently took part in a new Solo & Quartet Brass Festival in Lytham, Lancashire. A completely new venture for the band, we entered a total of four quartets and 3 soloists. Given that there were 8 quartets entered, this was an excellent contribution to the Festival.
As few had ever played in a quartet before it gave the opportunity to show off the talents of supporting players, when usually it would be principal players who take the limelight.
The four quartets attended many extra practises (on top of usual band practises and concerts!) and... [Full Story]

21st March 2009 :: Contest::Youth Wind Bands -- Newcastle Music Festival
To follow [Full Story]

14th March 2009 :: Concert at JCB Rocester
After a year off in 2008 it was great to be back at JCB's social centre as guests of Croxton Church. As ever the hall was full and the band did'nt let them down in the value for money stakes. A packed programme featured two new items, one of which was played at the request of the concert organisers,a xylophone solo by Hannah Edwards ( arr Kenin Birch)called Nola , and Sugar Blues - played by our new cornet star Rory Rolfe.

After a great performance of John Miles "Music" the evening was brought to a... [Full Story]

1st March 2009 :: North West Area Contest
The bands MD Jef Sparkes was delighted with the performance of Gilbert Vinter's "Salute to Youth" given by the band on Sunday in the Opera House Blackpool. This was the second year that the band has competed in the Championship section at the area contest and a real sense of achievement was gained by all when the 7th place result was announced. The day had a real feel of togetherness which has become the norm when this band goes out to perform and it is a massive credit that the band has such a strong bond through its members. A... [Full Story]

21st February 2009 :: Concert by United Co-op Band and Silk Brass
After a successful concert last year Silk Brass were invited to join us again for our “pre- area” concert. The full house at Dane Bank theatre were invited to hear an hours concert by both bands including their respective test pieces New world sketches (Second section) and Salute to Youth (Championship section).
Silk Brass provided a very varied programme including the traditional march ORB and Out of Africa.
Andrew Snelson provided an excellent solo spot in the first half playing the trombone solo “Feelings”.
The performance of the test piece New world Sketches showed Silk Brass were... [Full Story]

24th January 2009 :: The Band Dinner and Awards Evening
After a hard fought battle on the bowling alley (eventually won by Carl "the Ball" Ball) it was off to our dinner and awards evening at the White Lion in Coppenhall. The band had a lot to celebrate from 2008 and it was great to see so many friends and family of the band enjoying the great atmosphere of the event.
This year saw two players share the "player of the year" award. Both individuals were chosen by the bands Musical Director for their tremendous hard work and accountability over 2008. The proud winners were David Wood ( 2nd... [Full Story]

21st December 2008 :: Co-operative Christmas Concert
The Member - Relations committee of the Co-Operative staged the traditional end of year Christmas concert hosted by the Dane Bank Theatre in Crewe. The concert showed again that all the work done over the years in supporting our Junior and Youth wind bands has paid off.
All three bands looked and sounded very professional whilst giving a wonderful christmas flavour to the evening aided by a completely sold out hall.
During the concert a good friend of the band Mr Phil Edwards took some great action shots and has thankfully allowed us to share some of these... [Full Story]

5th December 2008 :: Concert Sandbach Town Hall with Co-op Junior and Youth Wind Band
Sandbach Town Hall provided a first class venue for the joint concert from the United Co-op Band (Crewe) , the United Co-op Youth Wind Band and the United Co-op Junior Wind band.
The concert was hosted by the Youth Wind Band with their band Manager Mrs Jackie Davis providing all the organising skills required to pull off an event showing off more than 100 performers on the night.
Programmes from all the bands gave a Christmas flavour to the evening along with some fine individual performances.
The improvement in standard of all of the bands was evident.... [Full Story]

30th November 2008 :: Both bands feature on Brasscast
Both bands are featured in this weeks Brasscast;

http://www.brasscast.com/

Including a interview with Jef. [Full Story]

9th November 2008 :: Crewe Band provides Remembrance music
At 9.00 am on a dark and very wet Remembrance Sunday the band met at Holmes Chapel as they have done for the last 15 years.
It's a great tradition to head the Standards around the loop of Holmes Chapel before delivering the march to church.
As always the George and Dragon Pub provided light refreshment for the band whilst the church service took place. After drying off the band entertained the villagers with Elgars "Nimrod".
Principle cornet player Tony Brookes did a great job at the service providing the Last Post. A short march back to... [Full Story]

1st November 2008 :: Concert : Longton Memorial Hall
This memorial concert was arranged by Steve Neville our third cornet player, in memory of his mother & father. Steve's parents belonged to the Methodist Church in Fenton and it was to this organisation that the proceeds from the concert were given. In total Steve raised £1400.
The band shared the programme with The Daleian Singers under their musical director, Glynn Edwards.
The band started the evening with their big band opener 'Valero' followed by 'Aspects of Lloyd Webber' and then our first soloist of the evening Nicholas Birch, on Euphonium, playing 'Donegal Bay. This solo is... [Full Story]

27th October 2008 :: Christmas Carols has arrived.
The Bands new Festive CD, "Christmas Carols" has arrived from the Manufacturer, in perfect time for its November release date. [Full Story]

18th October 2008 :: Concert : United Co-op and Lions Youth Brass
Sandbach Boys School provided the venue for the second joint concert between The United Co-op Band (Crewe) and the Lions Youth Band organisation who are based at the school.
The evening got under way with the senior youth band playing a very entertaining programme, including music from the shows and a very fine tuba soloist who played “Monte’s Czardas”. The United Co-op Band (Crewe) provided a soloist for the first half, who was Sarah Sparkes on Flugel playing “ I don’t know how to love Him” from Jesus Christ Superstar without music and on top form.
The Lions... [Full Story]

10th October 2008 :: Christmas Carols CD Update
With three weeks of intensive rehearsals completed following the summer break, the Youth and Junior wind bands met at the bandroom on the 4th October to record their tracks. The CD is now complete with excellent artwork being produced by Andrew Dixon. Jef has chosen the order for the tracks, and the Master disk and Artwork are now at the manufacturers.
We are on target for the 1st November release date. [Full Story]

5th October 2008 :: Bolsover Entertainments Contest
Sunday 5th October saw the band competing in Bolsover for the second year running. Having won the contest last year along with the bands Flugel Horn soloist Sarah Sparkes collecting the solo prize we were pleased to be invited back to defend the title although in a slightly different format.
This year organiser Carole Hirst invited 5 newly promoted Championship section bands to compete in a County Challenge, we represented Cheshire whilst bands from Yorkshire, Leicestershire, Derbyshire and Lancashire were also invited. Three of the bands in total were sponsored by the Co-Operative movement.
The bands programme opened... [Full Story]

4th October 2008 :: Youth Wind Band Recording
The Massed Ranks of the Youth and Junior Wind bands met at the Band room on Saturday to record their tracks for the Christmas CD "Christmas Carols".
After 4 weeks of intensive rehearsals they played a number of Festive favorites including Frosty the Snowman and Rockin' Robin. [Full Story]

27th September 2008 :: Concert Stafford Gatehouse Theatre
This is our third visit to Stafford Gatehouse Theatre for this event organised as a charity fund raiser for three nominated charities chosen by the Catenian Association.
The band shared the concert with 100 male voices from three choirs.
The oportunity was taken to introduce two new items into the bands repertoire 'Donegal Bay' euphonium soloist Nicholas Birch and 'Blessed Assurance' featuring four soloists, Annette Sparkes (tenor horn),Claire Dixon (trombone), Sarah Sparkes (flugal horn) and Colin Moody (trumpet).
The second half featured Annette Sparkes as solist playing ' Evergreen'
The band received a rousing... [Full Story]

31st August 2008 :: C D Recording - Underwood Lane
Due to public demand the band is recording a Christmas CD.
The disk.entitled "Christmas Carols" is being produced entirely by the band,and the main recording session was scheduled for the 31st August, at the new bandroom in Crewe.
The day started at 9am with a quick sound check,and by 11am tracks were being completed at a good rate.
By lunchtime the majority of tracks were recorded and the band could relax with a buffet lunch, and by early afternoon the session was complete.
The band found that recording in the familiar environment of their own bandroom,... [Full Story]

24th August 2008 :: Concert - Brough Park Leek
The local council of Leek, Staffs, as in many other local parks,have decided to bring back the time old tradition of brass bands playing on the park band stand on a Sunday afternoons during the summer. As the afternoon went on our audience grew and comprised of all age groups which was nice to see. A very relaxing, enjoyable job. [Full Story]

26th July 2008 :: Concert - Biddulph By The Sea
This was a first for the band, a rather unusual job but most enjoyable. We were invited to play a variety of music whilst the local children enjoyed such ativities as building sand castles on a mock beach, donkey rides, sugar boat rides,candy floss and much more. It was also perhaps one of the hottest days we have had this summer, but again the band were very much enjoyed by all. [Full Story]

12th July 2008 :: Concert - Weston Fete - Stafford
The band have been invited to do this village fete every year for the last 14 years. Every year, bar one, we have enjoyed good warm,dry weather just as an English summers afternoon should be. The band always play a good variety of music suitable for all tastes and always receive a warm welcome from the locals of Weston, Stafford. The organisers have already booked us for 2009, so look out for this one on our 2009 job list. [Full Story]

28th June 2008 :: Event - United Co-op Climb Snowdon
Following the move to Underwood lane several ideas were put forward for fund raising .Some of the more energetic suggested they would do a sponsored trek up Snowdon .
On the day five members set off at 06.00 for Snowdonia and met to start walking at 10.00.
The weather was kind to start and all set off enthusiastically for the top .
By halfway the weather started closing in and the mountain patrol were checking people were suitably prepared as the summit was at zero visibility and sub zero temperatures due to the heavy winds .
... [Full Story]

18th May 2008 :: Concert - Formby Hall Atherton
It was great to be invited back to this venue following our first vist last year .The band was in fine form following the success in Blackpool.
The audience at this concert knows a lot about brass banding and you know they will spot if you are not on top of your game .No problem solists and band alike were excellent and the response from the audience was very satisfying. [Full Story]

10th May 2008 :: Contest - Spring Brass Festival - Blackpool
A ‘Grand Day Out’ for the United Co-op Band (Crewe)

Probably the best result since the United Co-op Band (Crewe) was founded, was achieved on Saturday 10th May at the 88th Spring Festival (Senior Trophy) Brass Band Competition held at the Winter Gardens Theatre in Blackpool. With a lot of hard work by band and conductor, Jef Sparkes, they gave a performance of the set work; ‘Epic Symphony’ by Percy E. Fletcher that impressed the Adjudicators who awarded them 4th place.
Adjudicators Peter Roberts and Geoffrey Whitham stated in their remarks; “a great performance with some... [Full Story]

27th April 2008 :: Concert - British legion -Nantwich Civic Hall
Always a popular event and a pleasure to support the Royal British Legion once again .Featured music to celebrate all of the Forces with a medley of marches and favourites Sandon and the Last post and Keep Smiling Through. [Full Story]

20th April 2008 :: Concert - Victoria Hall Hanley
The band were invited to take part in the Annual Spring Concert with Biddulph Male Voice Choir .The band join top company in performing at this concert including Faireys ,Fodens,Leyland and the RAF regiment bands .The Victoria Hall is a great venue and the band rose to the occassion making the most of the wonderful acoustic .The standard of concentration and playing was excellent from everyone even late into the night. [Full Story]

28th March 2008 :: Contest - NABBC Conductors competition
As if March had not been busy enough ,Jef Sparkes (Musical Director) had decided to participate in one of the three regional heats of the NABBC conducting competion.
Being the modest person we all know it was left to Mr Alan Smart (Contest Secretary )to announce to the band that Jef had won this contest.This now meant he would be be invited to take part in the finals in June .
During theday each of the six finalists would have to conduct Virtuosi GUS in rehearsal, conduct one of three test pieces and also be put through... [Full Story]

22nd March 2008 :: Move to new bandroom Underwood Lane
21st March - left Camm Sreet (TO BE CONTINUED) [Full Story]

9th March 2008 :: Contest - Blackpool North West Area Finals
Back to the Championship Section - The preperation had been excellent and to some degree there is not the same pressure when the public expectation is low for a promoted band in what must be one of the hardest area contests in the country .The Band had different ideas and knew they were capable of an excellent performance of Festival Music .Excellent it was as sections and soloists had a great day .Fifth place in this area is a great achievment.Already looking forward to next year [Full Story]

2nd March 2008 :: Concert -- Sandbach Town Hall
This was a new venture for this time of year .Silk Brass were invited to join us in a concert to an invited audience of 150 people .An ideal opportunity for both bands to run their respective test pieces as part of their half concert prior to the area finals in Blackpool.Silk gave a good solid performance of James Cook Circumnavigator and United Co-op were really pleased with their performance of Festival Music .(Were we peaking at the right time ?)we will find out next week.
This was an excellent concert with playing of the highest standard from both... [Full Story]

9th February 2008 :: Concert - Tunstall Salvation Army
An excellent concert in front of a very receptive and musical audience .Highlight of this concert was our first public performance of the test piece "Festival music" by Eric Ball.This was good preperation for our return to the Championship section at Blackpool in March
Another first on the evening was the introduction of Nicholas Birch (Principal Euphonium )as a featured soloist.
The concert also featured the female voices of Tunstall Salvation Army. [Full Story]

19th January 2008 :: Band Christmas Celebration
What a great night!! Once again organised by Claire Dixon everyone was able to let their hair down for a great evening of relaxation and banter .The presentation of awards was made .The most improved player award chosen by Jef Sparkes(Musical Director)was awarded to Nicholas Birch (Principal Euphonium)and the Bandperson of the year award voted by the bandmembers was given to our Musical Director Jef Sparkes [Full Story]

28th December 2007 :: Jef & Sarahs wedding
Jef Sparkes and the bands flugel horn player Sarah Brown have tied the knot over Christmas in a ceremony held at Peckforton Castle, Cheshire.
A fantastic venue to play in and great to be part of the occasion for the band.
The service music by the band ,included 'Prelude on Tallis', 'Winter', 'An Irish Blessing' and a new piece written especially for the occasion by Crewe Co-op's composer in residence Kevin Birch (conducting for the day ) entitled 'A Prince's Celebration'.
The evening saw Bride and Groom performing on trumpet and trombone to family and friends... [Full Story]

21st December 2007 :: Carolling
Turning on of Crewe Lights – we played our first carol of the season ‘Hark the Herald Angels Sing’ now we know Christmas is upon us.
Turning on of Nantwich Lights – although only a few of us available we had a very good night, I think it was because the majority of us were women!
Freeport Shopping Mall – at least we were indoors on a bitterly cold day.
Late Night Shopping Crewe – we didn’t think we would do very well at this one but we had quite a profitable night.
Asda Crewe –... [Full Story]

14th December 2007 :: Concert - Willaston Masonic Hall
Another concert we have been invited to do over & over again so we must be doing something right. By now we are well into the Christmas spirit [Full Story]

7th December 2007 :: Concert - Co-operative Christmas Concert
This was organised for the first time by our new representative Adrian Knapper & Members Relations. Held at Dane Bank College Theatre - we nearly didn’t have enough seats for everyone ! Our Youth Wind Band & ‘The Loud Mouth Women’ a ladies vocal group from Congleton also took part. The audience were very receptive and sang along with gusto to carols and especially our last piece of the night ‘White Christmas’. All proceeds were to go to The Co-operative’s Chosen Charity the Diabetic Society. [Full Story]

1st December 2007 :: Concert - All Saints Operatic Society Leek
Ian Jones the musical director of All Saints Operatic Society heard us perform at the co-operative’s Christmas Concert 2006 and asked us if we would do this joint concert, Christmas 2007. What an excellent venue to play in, the band sounded awesome! Being our first Christmas Concert it definitely set the mood. Another full house too. [Full Story]

20th November 2007 :: Contest - Wilkinsons
An excellent performance of a very hard test piece “SOUNDS” with an excellent result – 5th [Full Story]

9th November 2007 :: Remembrance Parade
Must check how many years the band have been doing the Remembrance Parade at Holmes Chapel, a good few is my guess. It is always a great honour to be present at such an event and is very humbling. The turn out from the public seems to get more each year, a sign that war is still raging somewhere! Until next year …………. [Full Story]

1st October 2007 :: Contest - Kissingate
Very good result, 1st with best soloist prize too, Sarah playing ‘Children of Sanchez’ on flugel horn. Well done band, well done Sarah. [Full Story]

14th September 2007 :: Concert - Stafford Gatehouse Theatre
Nice to be back at this venue. Another very good concert thanks to Barry Tunnicliffe with a full house yet again. I’m sure he has raised another fine sum for his charity C.A.F.O.D. There was talk of us doing a concert at Birmingham Symphony Hall next year!. We have obtained a few good jobs from this one concert last year. [Full Story]

1st September 2007 :: Contest - Wychaven
A very exciting twenty minute entertainments programme. Including a superb flugel horn solo by Sarah Brown. We were given 9th place, disappointed, but it’s entirely up to the adjudicator on the day! [Full Story]

14th July 2007 :: Concert - Weston Fete
Another great event we keep getting invited back to. I like this event as it reminds me of when brass bands played in our parks on summer afternoons on a regular basis. There is always a good turn out from the villagers and the band always gets a warm welcome. I think the weather has only been unkind once. Not bad for English summer time! I’m sure we will be back again next year. [Full Story]

7th July 2007 :: Concert - 50th Anniversary Concert - Danebank Theatre Crewe
The concert was to celebrate 50 years of continuous sponsorship from the United Co-op for which we are most grateful. We also made it a charity event and raised £1025.00 for Macmillan Cancer Unit at Leighton Hospital.
A big thank you was given to Patrick Grange for all his support over the years as it was his last night as our representative. We will miss you Patrick! [Full Story]

14th June 2007 :: Concert - Formby Hall ,Atherton
First time for this particular concert, it takes place every Sunday evening during the summer months and only the top bands are invited to play, so we were very honoured to be taking part. The audience were very receptive and enjoyed our programme so much we have been invited back 2008. [Full Story]

1st June 2007 :: Contest - Whit Friday Marches
This is a great favourite with the band. The coach leaves Crewe mid afternoon heading for Tameside, the idea being to play in as many villages as possible. The band managed to play at just seven villages due to the amount of bands entering this year. We arrived back at Crewe at 1.15am. We got 10th position over all which is excellent considering bands such as Black Dyke, Fodens & Brighouse were all competing along side us. [Full Story]

14th May 2007 :: Contest - Senior Trophy Blackpool
All the hard work on the test piece paid off we came 9th out of approximately twenty bands, an improvement on last year when we came 11th. [Full Story]

7th May 2007 :: Contest - Buxton
Work on the set test piece for “The Senior Trophy” Contest later in the month was well on the way and so Buxton Contest gave us the opportunity to play the piece to an audience for the first time. We came 5th on the day, so a good result seeing we were playing against a mixture of First Section & Championship Section bands. [Full Story]

21st April 2007 :: Concert - Radio Stoke Happy Appeal
The band was invited to play in Crewe Market area as part of Radio Stokes Happy Appeal raising money for the Macmillan Cancer Unit at Leighton Hospital. A very worth while event, doing our bit for the community. We even got a certificate! [Full Story]

14th April 2007 :: Concert - Nantwich & District Royal British Legion
This has been an annual event for some years now, organised through Rob Richardson’s (percussionist) father Alan. The audience thoroughly enjoy military music such as, The Great Little Army, Viscount Nelson, Royal British Legion March & RAF March Past. Each year we have a request for a one of our own favourites “Keep Smiling Through”. No doubt we will be back there next year. [Full Story]

7th April 2007 :: Concert - Deeside College Flint
On this occasion we shared the programme with Flint male Voice Choir, classical soloist Alfie Boe, and Flints Young Musician of the Year on harp. We met Flint Male Voice Choir at a concert we did at the Stafford Gatehouse Theatre, September 2006. Many of us had heard Alfie Boe on Classic FM and in fact he has just performed at the Classical Brit Awards where he was nominated for an award. It was a great for the band to play to such a big audience, 700 people! [Full Story]

13th March 2007 :: Contest -North West Area -- Blackpool
All the bands hard work paid off and we got 5th place. Although we needed to come first or second to get an invite to the National Finals in Harrogate, September 2007, we were promoted to the Championship section for the second time in the bands history. [Full Story]

7th February 2007 :: Concert - JCB Rocester
This is another organisation that has invited us back at least three times in the past. This time we decided to take a chance and play the test piece to a different type of audience and we were pleasantly surprised as to how much they enjoyed it. The proceeds from the concert went to Croxden Church fund. [Full Story]

1st February 2007 :: Contest - Derby
Derby contest is a ‘First Section Contest’ and is another great opportunity to play our area test piece which at this stage is almost at it’s best. All the bands hard work paid off and we gained 1st prize plus best bass section, best principle trombone and best principle euphonium. [Full Story]

1st January 2007 :: Tunstall Salvation Army
The band has been invited to do a concert at Tunstall Salvation Army three times in the last four years and have always been very much appreciated. Some of the players in the band learned to play a brass instrument through the Salvation Army and so enjoy a return visit. January is a time when the Area Contest test piece is being rehearsed and so we take the opportunity to play it out to an audience for the first time, although not a finished article. The audience are used to hearing longer more technical pieces of music and because of... [Full Story]