The seaside town of Hove was the venue for SCABA's Spring Contest, the 1970's Town Hall being the idea place for such an event. After a good rehearsal and refreshments at the Salvation Army Citadel, the band made it's way through the Victorian streets of Brighton to the Contest. We drew 2nd, a good placing and a position that would come back to us later in the day. Although very hot in the Town Hall, the band played well on stage, the march chosen, Eric Ball's 'Star Lake' was described by Adjudcator Roy Sparkes as 'solid and confident' and 'a good march to open with'. The test piece, Eric Ball's 'Sinfoinetta for Brass Band, The Wayfarer' recieved equal praise - 'flows well and in time', 'impressive trombones' and 'a fine finish' were just three of the phrases that appeared in the adjudicators notes.

The results, announced at the end of the contest placed St Albans 2nd, just one point off the top position, we had the honour of receiving the John M.Buckley Memorial Trophy. We were also placed 2nd in the March results. However, the real success of the day was for the Trombone Section, who walked off with the Lynette Wood Memorial Trophy for Best Tenor Trombone and The Ted Gasser Memorial Shield for Best Bass Trombone.

All in all a very good day was had by all, with a result we hope we can improve on next time!