John Innes Park, Merton

 

The band played near the bandstand (the bandstand is very ornate but far too small to fit a full brass band!) in John Innes Park in Merton on the 29th of June. This park was the garden of a nearby Manor House and it was bequethed to the people of Merton by John Innes, whose horicultural institute went on to develop a range of composts.

There was a very good sized audience who came with picnics to enjoy the annual “Music in the Park” event. Solos included Beryl McMillan playing Concerto de Arenjuez on Flugel and Jeff Bamber playing The Power of Love on Horn. Trombones featured in The Bold Gendarmes and front row cornets featured in Buglars Holiday. The band was led by Marc Edwards as our Musical Director was unable to attend this engagment. The weather was a complete contrast to our previous engagement – warm and sunny!

Jubilee Weekend

The band took part in the Jubilee weekend celebrations, playing at ‘picnic in the park’ in Merton on Sunday and ‘Jubilee Celebrations’ in Weybridge on Monday.  Despite the inclement weather there was a good sized audience, many of whom were waving flags and singing.

Due to Musical Director Robin Langdon being away on holiday, the band was conducted by David Ruel on Sunday and Jack Smith on Monday – a big thank-you to both. 

Amongst the music played were ‘Jerusalem’, ‘Land of Hope and Glory’ and, of course, ‘God Save the Queen’.