I’ve had two great rehearsals this week with the bands I’m involved with.

Firstly, the rehearsal on Tuesday with Watford Band was excellent and a lot of fun. Not only did we get a good turn out, but we also worked through some good stuff and had a guest pro with us to rehearse for an upcoming gig. It’s always good to have pros playing around you as they not only make you up your own playing but they can also pass on valuable tips. In this case, Craig Patterson, will be doing The Lazy Trumpeter and he was able to give me some advice on bending notes.

Secondly, I got to play with the brass ensemble I play with. We are currently called City Brass but as we’re moving rehearsal venue and will now be based in Chesham, which is hardly a city, we will need to think up a new name. Anyway, it was the first time in a very long time that I was able to play my trumpet rather than the cornet. I also get to play alongside another pro, Ken Bache, who was also my tutor some time ago. Ken’s really good at letting me have a go on the 1st parts and providing good constructive criticism and advice.

On a final note, we’re in the process of approving the artwork for Watford Band’s CD, so hopefully it will be available within a few weeks. Order yours now via the band’s website and we’ll send you a signed copy, woo-hoo:)