("Family Christmas Concert," The City of Lichfield Concert Band, Lichfield Guildhall, 12 December 2010, Director of Music, Mark Vause)

Big Blow for Lichfield Children

Over 30 local children joined in with the City of Lichfield Concert Band on Sunday 12^th December at a packed Lichfield Guildhall to play their wind, brass and percussion instruments for some of the carols and other festive music at the band's new show, "Family Christmas Concert." To the surprise even of members of the band, Father Christmas made an impromptu appearance complete with his saxophone and performed alongside the children. It was, indeed, a very "big blow." The show also featured an introduction to all the wind and brass instruments in the band and a brief explanation of how they work. Also included in the programme was a quirky version of "Rudoph the Red-nosed Reindeer", played by a saxophone quartet, as well the obligatory Sleigh Bells, Roasting Chestnuts and other Christmas favourites.

The idea of a second Christmas concert arose after last year's sell-out traditional evening performance. The plan gradually evolved into the interactive, fun-packed afternoon event for children and the young at heart skilfully planned and compered by Musical Director, Mark Vause, which was so much enjoyed by the all-age audience at The Guildhall.

The band plans to repeat this double bill of traditional evening and family afternoon concerts next Christmas. Full details of all events and more information about the band are available on their website, www.lichfieldconcertband.co.uk