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Band History |
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Most brass bands have histories going
back to the middle of the 19th century and in Wales are often associated with collieries
or slate quarries. Indeed, there is history of a Bedwas band dating back to the
early 1900's. The present band was formed in 1972, when Cynan Jones, a native of
Blaenau Ffestiniog in North Wales came to work as a brass teacher in the Caerphilly
area, and decided to try and form a band. Some of the instruments had been inherited
from the old Windsor Colliery band in Abertridwr and in some cases had to be shared
by players. The B.T.M Band decided to start competing in 1975 in the Welsh Regional
Championships, where they achieved a credible 5th place. |
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The band steadily progressed through
the various leagues, gaining championship status (premiership) in 1985. Since then,
B.T.M has established itself as one of the foremost bands in the country. In 1994,
the band became the Champion Band of Wales, winning 3 out of the 4 regional contests.
With this title came an invitation to represent Wales in the European Championships
held in Montreux, Switzerland, this being the second such occasion that the band
has competed in the European Championships. The band has represented Wales at the
National Championships of Great Britain a total of 11 times!
The band has also made many radio broadcasts, the highlight being awarded the title
of Radio Wales Champion Band for 2 consecutive years. In addition to radio broadcasts,
the band has also appeared many times on TV, being the subject of 3 "fly on the
wall" documentaries.
As well as it's contesting work, the band also undertakes a wide range of concerts
in various parts of the country. It also supports national and local charities such
as Leukaemia Research Fund, the British Heart Foundation, The Charity for Sick Children,
The Joshua Foundation and Rhymney Valley Children's Centre.
The band is Very proud of it's many talented soloists. Mark Hutcherson (principal
Euphonium and Band Master) was the first brass player to win the covoted instrumental
blue riband at the National Eisteddfod of 1987, a feat which he repeated in 1988
and 1993. He became the British Open Solo Champion in 1990, going on to represent
Great Britain in the Brass International Musician of the Year Contest held in Auckland,
New Zealand, achieving 2nd place. |
Mark was also a founder member of
the National Youth Brass Band of Wales along with 4 other members of B.T.M. Since
that time, approximately 30 members of the band (past and present) heve been selected
for the Youth Band of Wales.
The B.T.M Band realises the importance of youth, and have established a thriving
junior band, a number of members have progressed to the senior band, competing at
the Royal Albert Hall.
The band have established an enviable reputation for competing in entertainment
contests, including the infamous performances of the Full Monty by five fearless
members of the band's cornet section, which has gained international recognition!!! |
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