Strike up the band

The Papakura RSA Brass Band has had a highly successful few days at the recent National Brass Band Championships in Takapuna.
They became the National Champions of their division (C grade category), in winning six out of seven events. Their lowest result was a second placing in the Sacred Item category.
Trophies gathered included: BANZ Challenge Cup for highest aggregate points; RNZAF Wigram Band Trophy for the Champion Conductor; Rosetown Cup for highest points in the Test Selection; Tom Taylor Memorial Shield for highest Own Choice points; IMMS Trophy for placing first in the Street March; and Tauranga City Silver Band Shield for the winning Drum Major.
Drum Major Kevin Third led the band to a resounding victory by a 14 point margin in the Street March placing the band ahead of many in the higher division.
Musically, Papakura were five points ahead of the second-placed band, Smiths Locksmiths Manukau City - a fine one-two for the C Grade bands of Auckland.
Because of the earthquake damage, the National Contest for 2012 has been moved from Christchurch to Timaru. Papakura RSA will be keen to defend their title at that venue next year.
Toot sweet
The Papakura RSA Brass Band's next concert will be held on Sunday, September 4, 2pm at Hawkins Theatre, Ray Small Drive, Papakura. For more info, phone Denise at 09 298 9012.