NEWSLETTER 3, 2005

The Seasons Greetings to all our friends of Gosford City Brass Band. We trust and hope that this letter finds you all well.

It was reported in the previous newsletter that the band had won the National and State contests in the same year for the first time in the bands' history. This appears to be incorrect, as the band achieved this feat in 1961. Thanks to Alex Clulow for pointing this out. Alex was the conductor of the Band at the time, and continues as a supporter nowadays. Alex is a well known and respected Brass Band identity in this county with  many achievements and affiliations with numerous bands. Alex has taught some of the finest brass players in Australia and we appreciate his continued support.

As a result of our continual successes in recent years, the band has been promoted to Open B Grade. As you are aware, we will be travelling to Brisbane at Waster in 2006 to compete in ht e National Brass Band Championships. From early in the New Year it will be intense at rehearsals in preparation for this event.

The Band has a very full schedule in 2006, and the upmost importance is the series of Laycock Street Theatre concerts. The committee are currently reviewing ticket prices and in order to make our concerts as affordable as possible subscription tickets will be on offer. We will be forwarding information to you early next year on the pricing of these tickets. The important dates to remember for these concerts are as follows:

• May 21st Brass Festival Challenge. This concert will feature some of the finest Brass bands from NSW competing for over $1000 prize money. They are judged on how well they entertain you.
• July 16th Mid Year Concert featuring guest soloists and vocalists with the Band
• November 19th Themed Concert. If you enjoyed Brassed Off and Brassed OZ concerts the you will love this one. It may be a hint of Lord of the Rings.

Mark these on your calendar for 2006. Other dates already confirmed are the Erina Over 55's dance party on the 11th February, Hop and Go Terrigal on the 2nd April and the Gala Concert at the Leagues Club in May.

Thanks to one of our mail out friends for your request to hear the band play the BB and CF march. We will endeavour to perform this fantastic peice of music at one of our concerts in 2006. If you have any similar requests then write to the secretary (GPO Box 458, Gosford NSW 2250) or email to gosfordcitybrassband@hotmail.com and we will try to accommodate your requests.

Again all the best for Christmas and a happy New Year.

Mark Downy (President, GCBB)