Creswick Brass Band turns a corner

THERE is a right way and a wrong way for a marching brass band to turn a corner.

Then there is the Creswick Brass Band way.

The Band’s execution of their Hokey Pokey turn into Adelaide Street, Brisbane helped them take home first place in the C Grade Street March at the 2019 Yamaha Australian National Band Championships.

Competing in C Grade, for the first time in over 40 years, didn’t dampen their enthusiasm or their playing.

Musical Director Katrina Bird said winning the march was wonderful.

“To see how the crowds enjoyed our rendition of the Hokey Pokey put a smile on all our faces,” she said.

“We all had a great time.”

Benjamin Gray, 16 years old, is the band’s Drum Major.

He lines the musicians up, makes sure the rank and file are in line and straight and sets the pace.

The band follows his lead by watching the different mace commands he makes while marching.

Mr Gray said he was thrilled the band won the marching prize as it was the first time they had competed in C-Grade.

“We weren’t really expecting too much and when we found out we’d won it was really exciting for not only me but the whole band as well,” he said.

“When we were lined up ready to start, I was only thinking about what we had to do and hoping I would enjoy myself while doing it.”

Mr Gray said the position of Drum Major is all about trust.

“Practicing makes sure the band knows what we are supposed to be doing, then it comes down to me trusting that they will do what I say and do it properly.”