Summer Sounds Course 1998
by Trevor Johnston
The members of the Drogheda Brass Band look forward to one week in particular each year and that is the second last week of July, when Archie Hutchison of the CWS Glasgow Band takes the band for "Summer Sounds", a week long course of intensive music rehearsals.
Arriving on Saturday afternoon, the first rehearsal is always the hardest as although he is now familiar with every face, he must gauge how much the band has improved since last year. The choice of music is always fantastic, as the music at the concert proves. It was Archie who launched our performances of "Riverdance" two years ago, and no doubt many of tonight's offerings will become regulars.
Archie always puts all of his effort into the week with his personality and wit making for the most enjoyable rehearsals possible, but at the same time his ability and dedication with what must be achieved in the mere six days available absolutely second to none.
This year for the first time saw the Summer Sounds becoming a real school of music with the Training Band, as it is now known, practising each morning with Lorcan Daly, a musician in the army. They played at the concert for the first time also, enjoying the unique atmosphere of the Summer Sounds concert. Lorcan's efforts were very much appreciated by the Training Band, who gave a splendid performance.
As always, some former band members were presented at the concert with small tokens of appreciation for making the band what it is today. This year those presented included Sid Kierans and Richie Whearty, two people still very much associated with the band.
Finally a mention must be given to Peter Govern who very kindly assisted with the transport of equipment for the course.