The Cheshire Constabulary band attended the North West Regional contest on the 1st March and were placed 2nd in its section, qualifying for the National 4th section finals in Harrogate this September. This is the first time in nearly 30 years that the band has qualified for a National Final and is quite an achievement for the current band in what is only its second year of contesting. The band Played "the Talisman" by Frank Hughes band achieving second place from a field of 19 bands.

The current band are very proud to have achieved so much in such a short time. We can now confirm that we have been promoted to the 3rd section from January 2010.

The adjudicator on 1st March, Brian Buckley wrote in the following remarks:

Prelude

Details emerge in general. 25 - Lower D's (Bb Bass) are # in pitch. There is pleasing energy in the harmonic structure of this performance. D - This needs more drive! Pleasing dynamic contrasts are noted. Stiffness in semi-quavers 77 - 86 - Well focused to end.

Nocturne

First entry loose then much better. A - Well played solo cornet and supported too. Missed the cresc before D. More confidence please solo horn! Secure link Euph nice nuance. All well in tune, cadence balance to end.

Scherzo

Sensible temp, this allows the detail to emerge with a lightness of touch, well judged MD. Music flows quickly - ensembe balance is just right. E - Bravo sop! 129 - Troms urgh! (untuneful). Lento - soloists have right style - this is focused. G - Bright rythmic pulse throughout, so much detail emerges. J - Well done! Excellent control to end.

So much effective playing and preparation by MD (music emerged throughout).