Kellswater retain championship

After making their debut in this Section last year, the Band was again placed first in the premier section against top flute bands from Northern Ireland and Scotland.

In addition Kellswater were also awarded the Ernest Johnston Memorial Trophy for the best interpretation, gained the overall best performance of the day award with 98 points and Shannon Mc Kay picked up the Dr Windsor Hylands Cup for best piccolo player.

This year’s Contest saw a welcome twenty six entries over five different sections, a considerable increase from 2009. Kellswater playing the William Tell Overture by Rossini arranged by Mark Douglas had significant competition in their section with seven other experienced bands entered.

Adjudicator Hughina Naylor from Scotland praised the arrangers of the pieces, commended all the bands on their performances indicating that it was a very close decision between the top two bands before announcing Kellswater as the eventual winners just ahead of Ballygowan Flute Band from Co Down.

More success was to come for band member Craig Lutton, one week later Craig became the Northern Ireland Young Musician of the Year at a gala evening featuring a host of talented musicians and vocalists. Craig a member of the band’s percussion section performed Baccanale by Ian Wright on Timpini.