Members of Medina Marching Band came together for their annual awards evening just before Christmas, combining the band’s 45th-anniversary celebrations and the annual Christmas Party.
The evening, held at Camphill Community Sports Club, was a chance to say thank you and to celebrate the individual achievements of all musicians in the band, as well as reflecting on what has been achieved overall over the past 12 months.
The band, which was founded in 1976, had one of the most challenging years in more ways than one, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Keeping everyone together whilst restrictions were in place was the biggest challenge.
Thankfully, the band survived the pandemic and managed to restart activities in May. This year a total of 68 members participated in 16 events across both the Isle of Wight and the mainland, the highlight of the year being the Festival of Remembrance at Christ the King College.
Accompanied by Bandmaster Lesley Smith, guest presenter Royal Marine Bugler Mike Thomas presented a variety of awards to players in the bands woodwind, brass and percussion sections.
For anyone wanting to become a member of the band, Medina Marching Band has no entrance criteria other than the minimum age of 8-years-old. No musical experience is required, just an appetite to learn and embrace something new.
The band practice Mondays and Wednesdays between 19:00-21:00 at Christ the King College, Newport. To join, email [email protected].
