Cadbury Saxophone Band

So, one year has passed…
…what a year! I’ve gone from an A level class of two, to an entire building full of people who love to do the same thing as me! (Music, of course!)

Initially University was a very daunting prospect, as some of you may know, it is very different from the routine pattern of school. However, having jumped in with two feet, the opportunities that have opened up have been wonderful – from performing an opera in Holland, to singing carols in the magnificent Bath Abbey. There was also that wonderful experience that some of us saxband-ers shared in, of breaking the Guinness World Record for the largest saxophone ensemble……in the World!!! (if anyone wants to see Pee Wee Ellis’s autograph, let me know!) What a shame that this moment of glory was spoilt just nine days later, when 930 saxophonists turned up in Canada. We are going to have to get a bigger gang from saxband next time!!!

I’ve also thoroughly enjoyed being part of the Big Band, Windband and Saxophone ensemble. From the saxophone ensemble, an all-girl quartet has formed - ‘Alchemy’ and I’m sure the others won’t mind if I mention that we are available to play for parties, weddings, pubs…etc!! Plug, plug!

Must also plug Bath International Music Festival – I was not really aware of it before this year, but there are some fantastic gigs available – I saw fabulous performances by Stacey Kent & her band, Pee Wee Ellis, and Courtney Pine & his band. A great way to experience live music, whilst cheekily broadening my musical appreciation and listening skills!!
Here’s to next year!

(Amy Dixon - August 2004)

Here is the address of a website concerned with the record breaking performance mentioned above.
http://www.boldts.net/Tor-Saxophones.shtml