Birmingham Citadel Band (Bandmaster Gavin Lamplough) has been privileged to make several recordings in recent years, and the lovely building of St. Michael’s Church in Boldmere was the setting for their latest sessions, held 30 September – 1 October 2016.

Birmingham Citadel Band recording session, 2016

The band was pleased to be ably assisted by Christian Lewis and his team. Also helping was former principal E♭ bass of the Black Dyke Band, Ben Dixon, who was charged with the arduous task of pointing out the band’s mistakes.

On Friday, the band worked extremely hard to record a good chunk of the major work for this recording, Corpus Christi, along with Make His Praise Glorious. Two of the three soloists were also recorded on Friday evening.

Saturday again saw the band work very hard and there was some very good playing, ensuring that retakes were kept to an absolute minimum. The last of the three soloists was also recorded. Lunch took the form of a visit to the local fish and chip restaurant where the band enjoyed fellowship and food (however, they were not too sure about the flourescent color of the mushy peas). Well fed, the band returned for the final session which was completed with a minimum of fuss.

A “well-done” to the bandmaster for choosing a program which will appeal to all and directing the band through the recording. The band also deserves recognition for thier concentration and hard work. They now entrust their efforts to God and pray that this recording will be a means of blessing and challenge to those who hear it around the world.

Source:
Birmingham Citadel Band web site, original report by Neil Blessett, photo by Graham Daff