Flowers Band Annual Awards 2023
Annual Awards 2023
Every year, we present several awards to members of the band to acknowledge outstanding contributions in various ways. Our 2023 awards were presented on Saturday 16th December at our Christmas concert in the lovely Number 8 Arts Centre, Pershore.
Player of the Year - eMILY eVANS
Chosen by our musical director, this award recognises outstanding playing contributions throughout the year. This year, the award went to our Solo Horn player Emily Evans.
She has had a really memorable year, with several playing highlights. Earlier in the year, she recorded Mike Sheppard’s Horn Concerto, a piece written for her, on our Album, DA Vinci. She gave stunning performances at The British Open and at The National Finals, but the year was topped off when Emily won “Best Soloist” at Brass in Concert. She is only the second tenor horn player in the 46 years of the contest to win the award, and the band are hugely proud of her.
Dave Lee Memorial Award - Dominic Gardner
The Dave Lee Memorial Award was first presented in 2022. Dave Lee was a member of the band for several years, playing back row cornet. He sadly passed away last year due to cancer, at a tragically young age, and the band created the award to pay tribute to him. This award recognises the contributions of a player who sits on an inner part, who may not often have the chance to shine on solo playing, but who makes an exceptional and invaluable contribution all the same. Our 2023 winner is our 2nd trombonist Dominic Gardner.
Dom joined us around two years ago, coming from City of Cardiff (Melingriffith) Band. Since then, he has covered the solo trombone chair at several concerts, including at Three Choirs Festival, and really is a huge asset to the band.
Bandsman of the Year - Clare Smith
To run a brass band, there is a huge amount of administrative work that must be carried out, from logistics, to scheduling, to finances, and so much more. The Bandsman of the Year Award recognises an exceptional contribution in this field.
This years winner is Clare Smith. Clare is the player in the band with the longest continuous service, having joined in 2008. For the last few years, she has made a truly invaluable contribution as Treasurer and Committee Member. The role of Treasurer is hugely time consuming, and is a daunting responsibility, and we are hugely grateful to Clare for carrying out the role for the band.
It must also be mentioned that Clare has an unofficial role within the band, as ‘Band Mum,’ as Clare often finds herself looking after younger players (most are in their mid 20’s now but still appreciate the mothering!).
Section of the Year - Percussion Section
Coco Chan - Ceri-Ann Townsend - Jamie Nuss
The Section of the Year Award is chosen by our Musical Director, Paul. This year, the winners are our fabulous Percussion Section!
From tackling fiendishly difficult parts in test pieces this year, to playing new and bizarre instruments such as teacups and saucers, and the infamous ‘Bullroarer’ from The British Open, the Percussion Section really have done an amazing job.
Congratulations to Coco Chan, Ceri-Ann Townsend, and Jamie Nuss.
Players’ Player Award- Emily Evans
Arguably the most coveted award, as it is voted for by band members, Players’ Player recognises outstanding contributions as seen by other players. This year, there were nominations for 9 different members of the band, which speaks to the calibre of player we are so lucky to have.
This year’s winner is Emily Evans!
As if winning ‘Best Soloist’ at Brass in Concert, Player of the Year, and Players’ Player of the Year wasn’t enough, Emily is also nominated in the 4barsrest Awards 2023, for Player of the Year!
Congratulations to all award winners, they are richly deserved!