Contesting

Not all bands enter competitions and there are some which shun the contest stage, preferring to concentrate their efforts in providing music for local events. For most players, though, contesting has always been an important part of brass banding, the reason that they spend so many hours trying to perfect their art. It provides them with the opportunity to test their musical skills against others and, of course, to bring home that silverware.

This section includes brass band contests which have taken place in Cornwall. I doubt that all are here, and there are certainly some results missing, but, over time, it is hoped that it will become a comprehensive record of all Cornish Contests.

 

We cannot be sure for how long the Cornwall County Contest was held and it is quite likely that some of the later years included here were not a part of the series as they were “a” county contest rather than “the” county contest. Conversely, it is also possible that some contests included elsewhere should be included here. News correspondents were not always consistent in naming contests.

 

 

 

1881

1^st Cornwall County Contest

No report found

 

 

1882

2^nd Cornwall County Contest

Pendennis Castle

5^th August 1882

Adjudicator: Reginald Heath

 

Placed		Conductor	Points
1	St Dennis	James Yelland
2	Penryn
3	Truro Independent	Harry Phillips
4	Mabe	Mr Rapson Jnr
	Unknown
	Unknown
	Unknown

 

The grand attraction was, of course, the amateur band contest and musical fete at Pendennis Castle. Upwards of 10,000 persons are said to have visited the grounds during the day, and, the weather being delightful, all must have enjoyed themselves, the heat making it more pleasurable to listen to the competing bands than to indulge in any of the games provided. Mr. R. H. Heath, of Redruth, acted as the umpire, and had little difficulty in awarding the premier position to the St. Dennis band ; but the Penryn band, in taking second honours, were driven rather, hard by the Truro band, who won the third prize.  (10 August 1882 – Cornishman)

 

 

 

 

1883

3^rd Cornwall County Contest

Truro

6^th August 1883

Adjudicator: S Mowbray, 74^th HMS Light Infantry, Plymouth

 

Test piece: The Field of the Cloth of Gold (Victor Bout) / Own choice

Placed		Conductor	Points
1	Camborne Volunteers (Crispino e la Comare)	E Dunn
2	Penzance 1st DCR (The Pirates of Penzance)
3	St Austell Rifles (La Sonnambula)
4	Truro Independent (Croix d’Honneur)

 

Reports: (Falmouth Packet 11^th August / West Briton 9^th August / RCG 10^th August 1883)

 

 

 

 

 

1884

4^th Cornwall County Contest

 

No report found

 

 

 

 

1885

5^th Cornwall County Contest

Pendennis Castle, Falmouth

3^rd August 1885

Adjudicator: E R Stebbing (bandmaster Royal Warwickshire Regiment)

 

Test pierce: Symphonia / Own choice

Placed		Conductor	Points
1	St Agnes Red Coats (Two Faces Under a Hood)	Joseph Roberts
2	Black Rock (L’Intrepide	J Carey
3	Truro City (Fete Musicale)	Harry Phillips
4	St Buryan (Rose d’Amour)	H B Prowse
5	Devoran (L’italiana in Algeri)
6	Penryn (Field of the Cloth of Gold)

 

Report: (Cornishman 13 August 1885)

 

 

 

 

1886

6th Annual County Volunteer and Independent Brass Band Contest

Newquay

2^nd August 1886

Adjudicator: Samuel Traise

 

Test piece: Pastorella (Ernest Villiers) / Own choice

Placed		Conductor	Points
1	Charlestown Artillery (I Lombardi)	William Tamblyn
2	St Agnes Red Coats (Leisure Hour)	Joseph Roberts
3	St Agnes Independent (Two Faces Under a Hood)	Samuel Argall
4	Brea (Crown of Gold)	John Harris
	Bodmin Fife and Drum
	Bugle
	Foxhole
	Nanpean
	Probus Fife and Drum
	St Dennis
	Whitemoor Fife and Drum

 

Report: (6 August 1886 – Cornubian and Redruth Times)

Adjudicators comments for St Agnes Red Coats placed 2^nd at Newquay contest (Captain Joseph Roberts). Judge Mr Traise: “Fantasia Leisure Hours – Opening movement very rough and too fast; andante accompaniments, notes rather short; Horn solo good; poco animato cornet rough in upper notes; allegro brilliante runs not played neatly by cornets; andante euphonium solo rather indistinct, several broken notes; cornet notes and harsh; valse movement solo not read correctly by cornet, using slurs where not marked, accompaniment not well together, andante trombone solo style and phrasing faulty, inner parts all too loud and harsh for solo, mf blown out of tune, error observed in inner parts. Marcia movement well played throughout with good finish.”

“Fantasia Pastorella: First movement taken rather fast and not well together, bass faulty in arpeggio passages, and several wrong notes observed, cornet not good style. 2^nd, band better together, cornet came in too soon in taking up solo (23^rd instead of 24^th bar) in this movement, baritone and horn very good. 3^rd, bass solo rather unsteady and slightly faulty. 4^th. Euphonium solo not well rendered, being indistinct and not sufficient variety of tone, cornet forced style; wrong notes observed in inner parts, runs in solo cornet fingers and tongue not together, intonation faulty, bass solo not well attacked.” (WB 12^th August 1886)

Adjudicators comments for St Agnes Independent placed 3rd at Newquay contest (Samuel Argall Jnr). Judge Mr Traise: “Selection Two Faces Under a Hood. Opening movement well attacked; andante solo cornet bad style, cadenza taken too fast. Allegro pretty well given, solo cornet notes forced and harsh. Andante euphonium and baritone not together. Allegro con spirito taken too slow. Andante first two bars out of tune; light and shade well attended to; third bar from end of movement overblown and out of tune. Allegro solo players rather forced in style, bass solo not well attacked.”

“Fantasia Pastorella: First movement rather unsteady; not well in tune, and a little too fast, solo cornet notes blown too short. 2^nd, taken too slow, and not enough energy and spirit; instruments overblown and out of tune, several broken notes observed, baritone and horn, 8^th bar from end of movement blown out of tune, and not sufficient variety of tone. Eb clarionet little out of tune. 4^th movement, running passages by solo players not neatly tongued. 5^th, accompaniments unsteady in starting, bass passages roughly played, and several of the notes forced and out of tune.” (West Briton 12 August 1886)

 

 

 

 

 

1887

7th Annual County Volunteer and Independent Brass Band Contest

Carbis Bay

1^st August 1887

Adjudicator: Samuel Traise

 

Test piece: Own choice

Placed		Conductor	Points
1	Truro City (Croix d’ Honneur / Bohemian Girl)	Henry Phillips
2	Porthleven (Pastorella / Bohemian Girl)	Amos Blight
3	Penryn Independent (Rose d’ Amour / Bohemian Girl)	A H Beard
4	St Agnes (Evening Revels / Bohemian Girl)

 

Test piece: Own choice

Placed		Conductor	Points
1	Foxhall Fife and Drum
2	Stithians Fife and Drum
3	Veryan Fife and Drum

 

Report: (RCG 5^th August 1887)

 

 

 

 

1888

8th Annual County Volunteer and Independent Brass Band Contest, and Fife and Drum Band Contest

Pendennis Castle

Monday 6^th August 1888

Adjudicator: G R Blogg, bandmaster of the South Staffordshire Regiment

 

Test piece: Sybil (M Bleger) / Own choice

Placed		Conductor	Points
1	Penzance Independent (Pride of Wales)	John Andrews
2	Falmouth Rifle Volunteers (I Lombardi)	J H Hallett
3	Penryn Volunteers (Golden Rose)	J Greenslade
4	Helston Volunteers (Bohemian Girl)	H Blight
	Four Lanes (Martha)	A Bartle
	Ponsanooth (Pastorella)	J H Bishop
	Stenalees (Merry Mountains)	J Richards
	Truro City (Croix d’Honneur)	Harry Phillips

 

Fife & Drum test piece: Two own choice pieces

Placed		Conductor	Points
1	Foxhole	M Pullen
2	Truro	J T Vine
	Falmouth	E Jordan
	Sticker	W T Matthews
	Veryan	W Treworton

 

Judges Remarks: (16 August 1888 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

A great attraction was the band contests held in the grounds of Pendennis Castle, which command so charming view all around. The steamer trips were well patronised, as also were the numerous excursions by road to the Lizard and other localities. The steamship Emperor conveyed a pleasant party to the Lizard; the New Resolute made a very enjoyable trip to Coverack, landing for a short time, and then proceeding to Helford, where a halt was made for tea. The Roseland, Wotton, St. Mawes Castle, Resolute, and Armine (which made a trip for Plymouth), were all well patronised, and the livery stable proprietors also had a very day. The long stretch of beach extending from Gyllyngvase to under Pendennis Castle, and commanding extensive sea view, was thronged with visitors. At Pendennis Castle where the eighth annual county volunteer and independent brass band contest, and fife and drum band contest for prizes amounting to upwards of £50 and two silver medals took place, there was a very large attendance. The bands thirteen in number, assembled in the Moor, and marched in procession to the grounds. At the close of the competition the brass bands performed the overture “Sybil” en masse, under the baton of the judge, who then announced his awards … (11 August 1888 – Lake’s Falmouth Packet and Cornwall Advertiser)

 

 

 

 

1889

9th Annual County Volunteer and Independent Band Contest

Newquay

Monday August 1889

Adjudicator: J Edmunds, bandmaster of the 1^st Essex Regiment

 

Test piece: Lord of the Isles – Scotch Fantasy

Placed		Conductor	Points
1	Stenalees	Joseph T Richards
2	Black Rock	J Corey
3	Helston Rifle Volunteers	Amos Blight
4	St Columb Volunteers	E Rickard
5	Queen’s Div V Company (St Columb)	S Kessell
6	St Ervan Independent	J T Old
	Penzance Independent

 

Fife & Drum test piece:

Placed		Conductor	Points
1	Bodmin	W H Phillips
	Veryan	J H Morse

 

Report: 9 August 1889 – Cornubian and Redruth Times

Report: 8 August 1889 – West Briton and Cornwall Advertiser

 

 

 

 

 

1890

10^th Annual County Volunteer and Independent Grand Band Contest

Tregullow, Scorrier (between Scorrier and St Day)

4^th August 1890

Adjudicator: Samuel Traise, Truro

 

Test piece: Fantasia on the Gondoliers (Arthur Sullivan) / Own choice

Placed		Conductor	Points
1	Camborne DCR (Dorothy)	Wm J Uren
2	Penzance Independent (Welsh Airs)	John Andrews
3	Illogen Brass and Reed (Martha)	Harry Oxland
4	Stenalees Brass (Midnight Echoes)	J T Richards
5	Black Rock – Crowan	John Corey
	Bugle-by-St Austell	John Menear
	Helston DCR	Amos Blight
	St Georges Chapel Truro Fife and Drum	J Bath

 

“Thousands of people assembled on Monday in the beautiful grounds of Tregullow, lent by Mr. Conybeare, M.P., on the occasion of the tenth annual county band contest and musical fete. Fine weather and attractions of various sorts combined to make the day very enjoyable, and a large proportion of the inhabitants of the neighbourhood spent their Bank Holiday in listening to the strains of the rival musicians and strolling about the lawn and gardens. The contest is arranged by a county committee. Mr J F Mark of Truro is the secretary, and among the members are Messrs J Tucker, St Austell; C Lanyon and W Rowe, Truro; John Jewell, St Austell; and John Tucker, Bodmin. Twelve bands entered, and eight of them put in an appearance: … Each band played a piece of its own selection, and the test piece, a fantasia on Sir Arthur Sullivan’s “Gondoliers,” which they had all practised. At the close the bands assembled round the stand, and en masse played the latter, under the baton of the judge, Mr S Traise, of Truro, …” (Royal Cornwall Gazette – Thursday 07 August 1890)

 

 

“… At length the trials of the various bands were over, and many of the hearers thought the admirably conducted Illogan band would secure premier honours; but the judge’s decision as at first understood by the public was: Camborne band first, Blackrock second, Bugle Band third, and Helston 4th. The misapprehension arose because the judge counted the fife and drum band amongst the competitors, and the understood order of the bands was thus upset. The result really is as follows: 1st Camborne band, 2nd Penzance, 3rd Illogan; 4th Bugle [this clarification further confuses things]. Considerable excitement ensued, and there were plain signs of outbreak, when Mr. S. V. Jewell sprang on the platform, and explained what had occurred. He urged them to maintain the peace and pointed out that above all things, bandsmen should endeavour to maintain harmony. Mr. Jewell’s pleasant manner and prompt action had a good effect. But at such affairs the promoters should explain every step taken lucidly and carefully, so that there can lie no friction.” (Cornubian and Redruth Times – Friday 08 August 1890)

“The tenth annual band-contest Tregullow on Bank-holiday might have been made mere interesting and exciting if the itinerant bands now in the vicinity bad been allowed to compete with our Cornish bandsmen. This was permissible some years ago at St Day; and when the Truro volunteers defeated the Black Hungarians the enthusiasm was intense. The objection was raised regard to Monday’s event to the competition of the Blue Hungarians and Belgians, who have been favouring our market-towns with excellent interpretations of some the best operatic music, on the ground that these strolling players, being professionals, had no right to compete with amateurs. There is no doubt the foreigners would have made the tug-of- war keener than it was; but, in spite of this, the contest was lively and entertaining. Eight bands competed, and as was expected, the Camborne volunteers came out on the top of the tree. The Penzance Independent band, to their credit, took second place; and the smart and well-balanced Illogan band won the third prize, thanks to the good training they have received from the Rev Harry Oxland, who organised them only a couple of years ago. Helston Rifles came fourth on the list, and the others did their playing more as a matter of exercise than for glory, although there was scarcely a bit of really bad playing noticeable for the day. Through an embarrassing blunder by Mr Traise, the umpire, the prizes were wrongly awarded; but the mistake was subsequently rectified. Mr Oxland tells me he will sue the band which wrongfully received the prize due to his musicians, so I should advise that band to submit with the best possible grace to the relinquishment of the unwon laurels.” (14 August 1890 – Cornishman)

The results for this contest are all very confusing, firstly because of an acknowledged error by the adjudicator and then, possibly, because of reporting errors with results for two different pieces. However, it is clear that the first three bands are in the correct order – I think!

 

 

 

 

1891

11^th Cornwall County Contest

Tregullow, Scorrier

1^st August 1891

Adjudicator: J W Bishop, Bandmaster, HMS Britannia

Test piece: Rosamunde (Schubert)

Placed		Conductor	Points
1	Truro DCR (La Traviata by Verdi)	Samuel Traise
2	Illogen Reed and Brass (William Tell overture by Rossini)	Harry Oxland
Absent	Camborne DCR
Absent	Redruth DCR

 

Reports: West Briton 6^th and 13^th August 1891 / Cornishman 13^th August 1891

 

 

 

 

 

1892

12^th Cornwall County Contest

Tehidy Park, Redruth

1^st August 1892

Adjudicator: J W Bishop, Bandmaster, HMS Britannia

 

Test piece: Herculaneum / Own choice

Placed		Conductor	Points
1	Penzance Independent	John Andrews	594
2	Illogan Churchtown Reed and Brass (Champion or Crown Diamonds)	Harry Oxland	592
3	Camborne DCR (Crown Diamonds)	Wm J Uren	590
4	Stenalees (Champion)	John Richards	580

 

Camborne players claimed that the judge made a mistake and that their report suggested that they should have received 2^nd place. (West Briton 11^th August 1892)

1892: “…assuredly look for when they learn that this talented gentleman is in our midst. The disappointment experienced by the Camborne band on Monday was most pathetic. To insinuate that any favouritism was shown in any way is the grossest absurdity. …” (5 August 1892 – Cornubian and Redruth Times)

“On Monday the twelfth grand annual competition, fete, and demonstration were held at Tehidy. Every possible vehicle was brought into requisition for the conveyance of the many thousands who assembled to witness what was expected to be one of the closest competitions that have ever taken place. This year’s contest was an open one, thus bringing the principal prize bands of the county together, including the Penzance Independent Band, under the conductorship of Mr. John Andrews; the Camborne Volunteer Band, under Mr Uren, bandmaster; the Illogan Band, with the Rev. Harry Oxland as conductor; and Stenalees Band Mr John Richards, bandmaster. Others entered but failed to appear. The entrants assembled in the Market square, Camborne at noon precisely, for the parade and procession, playing en route to the grounds. Each band had to perform two pieces — one of their own selection and the contest piece, “Herculaneum.” by Frost, of Manchester. …”(RCG 4^th August 1892)

 

 

 

1893

13^th County Band Contest

 

No report found

 

 

 

1894

14^th Cornwall County Contest

Trevenson Park, Pool

6^th August 1894

Adjudicator: S Dore 2^nd Royal Berkshire Regiment

 

1894: “Surely Camborne Volunteer band will not need to be coaxed into competing for some of the worth of prizes at the forthcoming county contest at Trevenson.” (28 June 1894 – Cornishman)

“Illogan’s brass-and-reed band have decided not to compete in the forthcoming band-contest at Trevenson as they do not wish complaints on the grounds that they are the only band with reeds …” (26 July 1894 – Cornishman)

 

Test piece: Reminiscences of Donizetti / Own choice

Placed		Conductor	Points
1	Camborne DCR Band (Il Guirmento by Mercadante)	Wm J Uren
2	Penzance Independent (Elixir of Love)
3	Helston Volunteers (Pride of Wales)
4	St Just Artillery (The Rivals)
W	Illogan Reed and Brass
W	Stenalees

Specials:

Cornet: Mr Uren, Camborne

Euphonium: Mr Collins, Camborne

1894: Newspaper note: “Is it a fact that Camborne [Volunteer] Band do not intend to use their reed instruments in the County Contests? If so, Illogan will be in the awkward position of being the only band having brass and reeds. It would surely be fairer to let bands enter as they muster on other occasions and then the judge would have no cause to bother because there is a single exception to the brass bands?” (West Briton 19^th August 1894)

“Over 4000 spectators passed through the admission-gate for the band-contest on Monday. Band Contest at Trevenson. Camborne Defeats Penzance Independent.  The competitors at the band contest were Camborne rifle volunteers, Penzance Independent band, Helston rifle volunteers, and St. Just artillery. Truro Volunteer band was in camp at Trevethoe, and the lllogan brass and reed had accepted an engagement elsewhere. The prizes offered were—first, value £22; second, value £13 13s.; third, 1 value £5. ; fourth, value £3 35.; and a special prize for the best soloist. The contest piece was “Reminiscences of Donizetti.” Penzance played first, their choice piece being “Elixir of Love”. Helston next, “Pride of Wales;” Camborne, “Il Guirmento;” and St. Just last with “The Rivals.” Mr. Dore informed our reporter, at the close, that he was surprised at the good quality of the bands, considering they are amateurs who he was told work hard in mines and shops during the day and only have occasional practice. The level reached was very meritorious. The band-stand was erected rather too far from the judge, who had to try to disregard the sounds of bicycle bells and voices, &c. that permeated the air. From what he heard Camborne band played much better than Penzance. Camborne has some splendid bass instruments, while Penzance needs greater volume. He awarded the prizes: 1, Camborne; 2, Penzance; 3, Helston; 4, St. Just. Previous to this the bands were massed in front of Capt. Teague’s house and played under Mr. Dore’s baton. The judge had a full score of every instrument, and recorded critical impressions in passing, instead of awarding marks and totalling them. He had heard many large military bands play worse than the contestants that day. Needless to say Mr. Dore knew nothing of the identity or usual characteristics of the bands. He considers bands, his own included, fluctuate from day to day and that positions may be frequently reversed in contests. He thought band pieces for such occasions ought not to be overtures but popular national airs and light operatic selections, such as those of Donizetti, so that soloists, as well as the chorus, may have a chance show their quality. In the choice piece St. Just might have chosen something more popular and enriched with good solos than “The rivals.” [Mr. Dore’s criticism of the bands is   included in the newspaper report] The verdict was loudly cheered, especially the large number from Camborne. The attendance in spite of the unpropitious early morning was good. Comic entertainment was also provided at intervals, and the fete was under the presidency of Mr. Arthur Strauss. Mr. Uren, Camborne bandmaster, allowed the special prize to go Mr. P. Collins, who was bracketed in honours with him.” (9 August 1894 – Cornishman)

 

 

 

 

1895

15^th Cornwall County Contest

Recreation Ground, Redruth

5^th August 1895

Adjudicator: Mr T Owen Devonport

 

Test piece: The Beauties of England (Edward Newton) / Own choice

Placed		Conductor	Points
1	Penzance Silver (The Wolf)		91
2	Helston Volunteers (L’Elisir d’Amore)		89
3	Crowan probably Black Rock (Boudoir)		80
4	Pool

 

“The annual county band contest, arranged by Mr. J. F. Mark, of Truro, came off at Redruth Recreation Ground on Bank-holiday. Six bands entered, and four of them turned up at the contest. … Considering the state of the weather, there was a large attendance, and the contest passed off most satisfactorily.” (RCG 15^th August 1895)

 

 

 

 

 

1896

16^th County Band Contest

Trevenson Park, Pool

2^nd August 1896

Adjudicator: Fred Haines, Bandmaster, King’s Own Regiment, Devonport

 

Test piece: Round the World / Own choice

Placed		Conductor	Points
1	Camborne DCR Band (The champion)	Wm J Uren
2	St Erth Independent Band (Elixir D’ Amore)	F Perry
3	Stenalees (Trafalgar)	J Richards
4	Troon Band (Pride of Wales)	J Corey
W	St Feock
W	Porthleven

Best soloist: Wm Uren, Camborne (cornet)

Trevenson Band Contest and Sports / Seven bands entered but only four turned up / 8,000 spectators. (West Briton 6^th August / RCG 6^th August 1896)

BANK HOLIDAY TREVENSON PARK. The monster fete and county band-contest were held in splendid weather; and the Park, kindly lent by Mr. Phillips, was scene of unusual animation, thousands attracted by the various items. The bands formed up in Camborne at noon, and marched to Pool, afterwards competing for prizes…” (13 August 1896 – Cornishman)

1896: “Camborne Volunteer Band [under William J Uren] have been requested to hand in their kit and to consider themselves no longer members of the company. This step has been taken by the commanding officer in consequence of the action of the band in taking part in the band contest at Trevenson Park, on Bank Holiday, without permission.”

In August 1896 a crisis hit the town which would reverberate around the streets, and in the newspapers, for some time to come. “Camborne Volunteer Band have been requested to hand in their kit and to consider themselves no longer members of the company. This step has been taken by the Commanding Officer in consequence of the action of the band in taking part in the band contest at Trevenson Park on Bank Holiday without permission. They obtained the first prize at the contest.”

This action must be measured against the times in question when we were preparing for war with the Boars and patriotism, and not a little jingoism, filled the air. Additionally, men tended to doff their cap and do as they were told and here we have the entire band being dismissed for contravening orders. The West Briton, in what would now be called the editorial, debates the issue. “At last Camborne Band have broken through all restraint and, having defied authority, has been thrown adrift. The more or less casual onlooker is uncertain as to which party is the aggrieved one and deserves sympathy. One feels inclined sometimes to admire the feeling of conscious ability displayed by the bandsman, and also the daring to infringe a regulation they considered too binding; but then orders are orders and if the band desire to wear the Queen’s uniform they must learn to take the bitter with the sweet. The mischief has now been done; and on Friday the conquering heroes returning from camp, bronzed with exposure, paraded the streets without the strains of music which were want to herald their approach. Tramp! Tramp! Tramp! They went, but only to cause people to liken them to a funeral. Truly we might exclaim when we consider the trifling matters which breed discontent and put friends at variance. What fools we mortals be.” (August 1896 The West Briton / CTB Book)

1896: “It is announced that Camborne Volunteer Band has been dismissed for taking part in band competition at Trevenson. It appears that some two years ago orders were issued by the officer of the battalion that during…”(14 August 1896 – Cornubian and Redruth Times)

 

 

 

 

 

1897

17^th County Band Contest

Newquay

Monday 2^nd August 1897

Adjudicator: C J Brampton, Bandmaster of the Royal Worcestershire Regiment

 

Test piece: Beauties of Scotland / Own choice

Placed		Conductor	Points
1	Camborne	Wm Uren
2	Penzance
3	Stenalees
4	St Erth
5	St Erme drum and fife	F Baker
W
W
W

Best soloist: Mr Uren (cornet) of Camborne

COUNTY BAND CONTEST AT NEWQUAY. The seventeenth annual county band contest was held Newquay on Monday in the presence of large concourse of people. In addition to the musical attractions, the energetic secretary, Mr. J. F. Mark, of Truro, arranged for a comprehensive programme of sports, and the whole the proceedings were attended with unqualified success. At noon the bands paraded the Square, and marched in procession to the grounds, where an ample variety of music was provided. The chief item in the competitions was the playing of test pieces by brass bands from various parts of the county. Eight bands entered, but only five put in an appearance. Each band played a piece of its own selection, and the contest competition, “Beauties of Scotland,” a very taking collection of Scotch airs. … The judge regarded the Camborne Band as far and away the best. The piece selected by Penzance was not nearly as difficult as that chosen by the premier winners.(5 August 1897 – West Briton and Cornwall Advertiser)

Quite a number of people took what at present is from Camborne the tedious railway journey to Newquay. The reason is found in the fact that Camborne band was competing in the county contest, and Cambornians have still have their old pride in their band and went up confident that they would find them able to hold their own against all competitors. Had they not thought so, it is more than probable they would not have gone. Nor were they disappointed, Camborne not only coming out easily first, but Bandmaster Uren distinguishing himself cornet soloist. The spectators returned quite jubilant as were the members of the band themselves.” (5 August 1897 – West Briton and Cornwall Advertiser)

 

 

 

 

 

 

1898

18^th Annual County Contest

Trevenson Park, Pool

1^st August 1898

Adjudicator: C J Brampton, Bandmaster of the Royal Worcestershire Regiment

 

Test piece: Beauties of Ireland / Own choice

Placed		Conductor	Points
1	Camborne Independent Band		82
2	Troon Independent Band		50
3	St Erth		43
4	Chevelah

 

“Band Contest at Trevenson Park There were over 8,000 people at Trevenson Park, Pool, on Monday. Beautiful weather prevailed. A capital programme was arranged Seven bands had entered but only four put in an appearance…”(Thursday 04 August 1898)

Camborne took first place again in 1898 and the win was by a country mile as this report shows. “General ensemble particularly good; attack very good; solo playing fair on the whole; marks of expression well observed; tempo generally well observed. Marks deducted: For errors in execution – 6; for errors in respiration – 6; slight fault in the rendering of cadenzas – 6; Total deducted 18. Number of marks 82.”

 

 

 

 

 

1913

Lelant

30^th August 1913

Adjudicator: Jesse Manley

 

“Lelant Band Contest. Great interest is being shown in the County Band Contest held in Trevethoe Park Saturday, August 30th. Mr Edward Mitchell, one of the trustees the band, presided over largely attended meeting on Tuesday evening in the band room. (24 July 1913 – The Cornish Telegraph / Cornishman)

“The arrangements for the county band contest in Trevethoe Park, on August 30th, are well forward, and a successful contest is expected. A full programme of the day’s proceedings will be given next week.”  (21 August 1913 – Cornishman)

“Lelant Band Contest. The arrangements for the County Band Contest to be held Trevethoe Park, Lelant, on Saturday next, August 30th, are now complete. Mr. R. G. Tyringham, of Trevethoe, is the President, and the Vice-Presidents are as follows: Viscount Clifden…” (28 August 1913 – The Cornish Telegraph / Cornishman)

 

First section Test piece: Emilia / Own choice

Placed		Conductor	Points
1	Camborne Town (Poliuto)	William Uren
2	St Dennis Temperance (Bohemian Girl)	William H Juleff
3	Redruth Town (Bohemian Girl)	Richard Wills

Specials:

Soprano: W Uren, Camborne

Cornet: William H Juleff, St Dennis

Trombone: George Roseveare, Camborne

Euphonium: P Collins, Camborne

 

Second section test piece: The Village Bride / Own choice

Placed		Conductor	Points
1	St Agnes	Harry Robins
2	Stenalees Temperance	J Libby
3	St Ives Town	Edwin J Williams
4	Helston Temperance
	Porthleven
W	Bugle Silver

 

March section open to all bands

Placed		Points
1	Camborne Town
2	St Ives Town
3	St Agnes Town

 

1913: “Lelant Band Contest. Sir, may I ask for a little space to express delight at the excellent playing of the various bands the County Band Contest Saturday, and at the same time to say how sorry I was to see that no band from Penzance or district was competing. Time was when the Penzance Independent Brass Band, under the able conductorship Mr. John Andrew, were always competitors at these festivals, and frequently won first. We have excellent local brass players, the best of whom, I believe, are members of the Orchestral society, for whose existence we must all feel grateful. Rumour has it that another brass band is shortly to be formed in Penzance. Let us hope that it is so, and that both the new band and the Independent Band will figure next year the competitions. At all events, if not in the first, in the second section. Yours faithfully, “KNELLER HALL.” (4 September 1913 – The Cornish Telegraph / Cornishman)

Report: (4 September 1913 – The Cornish Telegraph)

“All roads around Lelant led to Trevethoe Park on Saturday, where the best bands in the Duchy competed for county honours. Although each of the smaller bands in the second section had its group of supporters most the interest was centred in the first section in view or the recent decision given at Fourlanes in favour of Redruth Band. Hundreds of people from both the mining towns thronged the picturesque park, and each party was equally certain that the county laurels would be gained by its favourite band. In view of the fact that the adjudicator was no less a personage that Mr. Jesse Manley, who judged at the Crystal Palace, any possibility of an error of judgment was regarded very remote indeed. Notwithstanding the intensity of the excitement, the crowd must be congratulated its exemplary conduct and fair play during the contest, for beyond unstinted and well merited applause at the conclusion of each selection, there was not a whisper which would convey to the judge any intimation which band occupied the stand. Redruth were at a disadvantage in being without the services their regular second cornet and bombardon, but as the result was announced it was generally felt that was a very close thing between the two premier bands. Although St. Dennis Temperance was not any means despised it was looked upon as a very formidable rival, and although their performance was a surprise to most of the listeners, it was scarcely thought that the band would be given the place it was. The test piece was “Emilia,” the same piece which was set at Fourlanes recently, and for their optional selection both Redruth and St. Dennis chose the “Bohemian Girl,” whilst Camborne gave “Poluito.” …”   (4 September 1913 – Cornishman)

Camborne won the March Contest but was said to be, “Slightly on the rough side” but, “decidedly the best today”. St Ives Town was second and St Agnes third. St Agnes Band was described as “a very good band” and “the best all round performance up to now,”. Presumably that was before St Ives and Camborne had played.

“The victory of Camborne Band at Trevethoe recalls to mind the fact that nearly fifty years ago there was a band content at Clowance in connection with a great Oddfellows’ demonstration. St. Day Brass Band led Mr. Tom Cara (afterwards of Gross Valley. California) was awarded the first prize £14. which with £2 for playing Chacewater Oddfellows to the ground, made £16 for the day’s playing. Camborne Band “for attempting a difficult piece” was awarded second prize. At Tregullow soon afterwards, with another judge, Camborne Band was given first prize. St. Day second, and Truro Volunteers third. So that history repeats itself and the present-day Camborne Band recovers its balance and defeats Redruth, which for a moment at Four Lanes enjoyed transient victory over its redoubtable neighbour. Half-a-century ago, however, St. Day Band, under Mr. Cara, was one of the finest bands in the county. One member at least is still alive, and resides in Penzance.

The success of Camborne Town Band at Lelant Saturday has caused general satisfaction throughout the town, and the reception recorded “our champions” on their return home must have been flattering the performers. It is interesting trace the history of the Town Band. Since I889, the time Mr. W. Uren took over the leadership, they have won more first prizes than any band in the county; have received over in £300 cash prizes, won forty solo medals and eleven instruments. In conversation with a member of our staff this week, Bandmaster Uren said if Camborne merited the prize at Lelant, they merited it at Four Lanes. The performance of the test piece at Four Lanes was one of the best they had ever given. “At Four Lanes” he continued, “Redruth beat us for the first time in their lives. It will be some time before this happens again. Our band can beat Redruth every day in the week, whether we play for money or marbles.” The Town Band are busily engaged practising for the Bugle contest, which takes place next week. The test piece will be the same as at Four Lanes and Lelant – “Emilia.” All Cornish bands of note are entered, together with some crack bands from Devon, Somerset and Gloucester, therefore good contest is expected.” What Camborne People are saying: That the quotation; ‘The first shall be last,’ was applicable for Redruth Band was concerned on Saturday. That they were first at Four Lanes, but last at Lelant. That Camborne Town Band must have been gratified at the reception given them on their return from the contest. That according to a well-known musician they did not play as well at Lelant as they did at Four Lanes, yet they were an easy first at the former contest.” (11 September 1913 – The Cornish Telegraph)

 

 

 

 

1914

Cornwall County Contest

Truro

3^rd August 1914

Adjudicator: Mr Alexander Owen (conductor of Besses o’ the Barn Band)

 

First section test piece: Zaar und Zimmermann (Gustav Albert Lortzing / Charles Gosfrey Jnr)

Placed		Conductor	Points
1	St Dennis
2	Camborne	Wm Layman
3	Redruth	Mr W Halstead

Cornet: St Dennis

Trombone: St Dennis

Soprano: Camborne

Euphonium: Redruth (gold medal)

 

Second section test piece: Memories of the Opera

Placed		Conductor	Points
1	St Agnes Town
2	Foxhole
3	Lelant	E C Wills

Horn: Joseph Northey (St Agnes)

 

Third section test piece: Recollections of Carl Rosa

Placed		Conductor	Points
1	St Newlyn East
2	St Columb
3	Summercourt
4	Four Lanes

Cornet: St Newlyn East

Euphonium: St Newlyn East

Trombone: St Newlyn East

(Cornish Post 6^th August 1914)

 

1914: “Crowds attended the County Band Contest at Truro on Bank Holiday, and about 1,500 hailed from Redruth and Camborne. The band from the latter town were particularly anxious to avenge the defeat they sustained at the hands of St Dennis at Liskeard …” (6 August 1914 – Cornishman)

 

 

 

 

 

1920

Under the auspices of Truro Town Band

At Tregolls, Truro

2^nd August 1920

Adjudicator: Mr J F Slater, Professor at Manchester School of Music

 

First Section

Test piece: Euryanthe  by weber

Placed		Conductor	Points
1	Mount Charles	J Libby
2	St Dennis	W Juleff
3	St Austell	J Williams
	Redruth	E Wills

 

Second Section

Test piece: Recollections of England

Placed		Conductor	Points
1	Foxhole Silver	J Morcom
2	St Newlyn East	L Abram
3	St Ives Town	J Tanner
	Falmouth Town	M T Atkinson
	Indian Queens Silver	Ford Knight
	Wadebridge	E A Barrett

 

“The band contests at Truro yesterday attracted nearly 4,000 enthusiasts, who were favoured with better weather than that prevailing in many other places, the rain keeping off until the last band took the stand. There were ten contestants, six in the second section and four in the first section for larger bands. Mr. J. F. Slater, professor at Manchester School of Music, the adjudicator, and in his brief comments said the worst fault was too much brass, and in the accompaniments the notes were clipped instead of being breathed gently. …” (3 August 1920 – Western Morning News)

 

 

 

 

 

Compiled by Tony Mansell (Bardh Kernow)