It is a lively worship
band that meets every first Sunday of the month to
provide music for the Family Service. It's a chance
for musicians of all ages and abilities to meet
from different schools and backgrounds, to share in
and contribute to the music of St
Mary's.
We play both
modern and traditional praise music:
usually 5 or 6 songs in one service
followed by an RB (Right Belter) for the
congregation to exit on.
On occasions we play secular items
(non-church stuff) which fit in with the theme of
the service.
we may be asked to play at other
church or community events like the Ponteland
Flower Festival or at guest evenings.
We have a diverse line-up
including at the moment
trombones, trumpet,
clarinets,
flutes, fife, violin, 'cello,
recorder, guitar and
keyboard, all of mixed ability from beginner
to Grade 8 and beyond. Current members of the band
range from junior members - school years 5 and 6 -
through to senior school pupils and those who are
more diffident about disclosing their age! Sixth
formers find the band a welcome break from their
studies, and even when they've left home for
pastures new they still come back and help us out
when they get the chance.
The
special thing about us is that we are never the
same band twice! We have to be flexible from month
to month as far as attendance is concerned, as many
of us have other commitments from week to week. As
long as we know who is able to play at the next
Family Service, we can make sure everyone has a
chance to practise the music in advance. We try to
have one joint practice (at least!) before each
service, either immediately beforehand - at 9am for
the 10am start, or by arranging an evening practice
in Church or at a member's house on a suitable
weekday, usually between 7.30 and
8.30pm.
We are always
looking for new band members. Anyone with any
instrument is most welcome to join us in our
music-making - at the moment we particularly need a
drummer, although all are welcome. All we would ask
is that you can read music or guitar chords to a
basic level.
If you would
like to join, or you are interested in finding out
more, do come to the next Family Service and make
yourself known to us.
Or e-mail us
on Jane
Lewis jane@stamfordham.biz
