VBL SHOWCASE 2007 SPARKLES

..... celebrating the best of banding in Victoria

The VBL held its inaugural Showcase on 25th November 2007 at Ivanhoe Girls' Grammar School Performing Arts Centre, bringing together the best of banding in the state.

In a stellar display of banding in Victoria, the Victorian Bands' League hosted VBL Showcase 2007 to a modest audience. Featuring four of the state's prominent bands and an array of stunning soloists, the event was hailed an outstanding success, assuring its place on the annual banding calendar in Victoria.

The day also included the announcement of the VBL's annual band and individual awards. The band awards are based on contest results for the year, whilst individual awards are chosen from nominations submitted by bands. Winners of the band awards were presented with their respective perpetual shields and a replica to retain in the bandroom. Individual award winners were presented with the perpetual shield, a certificate and medallion to commemorate their achievement.

The announcement of the Junior Brass Band of the Year was special, as it was named the Bruce Armstrong Perpetual Trophy in recognition of Bruce's outstanding contribution to the development of junior brass bands in Victoria. Bruce was in attendance to present this new award.

Winners of the VBL's annual awards for 2007 are:-

• Merv Simpson Memorial Trophy for Brass Band of the Year - jointly won by Geelong West Brass Band and Darebin City Brass (Northern Brass)

• Percy Grainger Perpetual Trophy for Concert Band of the Year - Bendigo & District Concert Band

• Bruce Armstrong Perpetual Trophy for Junior Brass Band of the Year - jointly won by Whitehorse Brass and Bendigo Youth Brass

• Musician of the Year (over 25 years) - Matthew van Emmerik

• Young Musician of the Year (under 25) - Leon Duncan

• Musical Director of the Year - Phillipa Edwards

• Drum Major of the Year - John Kelly

Most of the VBL's Life Members and their partners were present at the event, enjoying pre-show drinks and the hospitality of the VBL Executive team. The event was compered by Barrie Bardsley and featured Jodie Lockyer as associate artist and accompanist for the day.

Make a note in your diary for VBL Showcase 2008 - last Sunday in November.

Chris Bowman

President, Victorian Bands' League

N.B.

1. Bands playing in the Showcase were:-

   • Kew Band Melbourne
     
   • Geelong Concert Band
     
   • WASABI Stage Band
     
   • The Victorian State Youth Brass Band.

2. Soloists playing in the Showcase were:-

   •  Steven Ford
     
   • Jennifer Magoulas
     
   • Louisa Trewartha
     
   • Angus Wilson
     
   • Leon Duncan
     
   • Patrick Mudge
     
   • Joshua Rogan.