Len hangs up his mouthpiece after 67 year stint! PDF Print E-mail
len_bass_1.jpgLen Smith, St Albans Band's long serving Bb Bass player has finally hung up his mouthpiece after a record 67 year membership of the band. Wednesday January 11th marked an important day in the life of St Albans City Band. After a banding career spanning eight decades Bb Bass player Len Smith decided to retire from playing to become a non-playing member of the band. Joining the band in April 1939 a the age of 12, Len started off on cornet, but moved to Bb Bass after returning from National Service in 1948. His constant companion for 35 years from 1967 was a Boosey and Hawkes Imperial Bb Bass, one of two purchased as part of a new set of instruments by the band along with a set of uniforms designed by the haute coiture designer Hardy Aimes. For a number of years in the 1980's Len was often on his own on the Bass section as the band went through a low period - certainly a far cry from today! Over the years he has held many positions within the band and has always been present with an unassuming comment or cheerful word.

stuart_len_1.jpgHis final playing rehearsal included a surprise visit from his wife and two sons and their families after which a presentation was made to Len by Musical Director Stuart Garman. He was presented with a framed photograph of the band and a signed handmade card made especially for the occasion. The band then celebrated with wine before completing the rehearsal with a runthrough of March's Area Test Piece 'Voyage of Discovery' - just to check the band were on their toes! Len's place on Bb Bass is to be taken by Eb Bass player Nick Doolan, Principal Eb Bass Steve Cook will move to Second, whilst new member Garry Ambrose will be joining the band on Principal Eb Bass.

A testimonial concert in Len's honour is planned for the Autumn. This will also tie in with a planned St Albans City Band reunion where it is hoped to get as many former members together as possible to join the band in this concert. If you are a former member and wish to get in contact, please use the 'Contact Us' tab on the site menu. Everyone, however long they played with the band is very welcome. len_card1_1.jpg

Len's extraordinary dedication and love of banding is an example to us all. Some of Len's memoirs, along with other articles about the band's history can be found on the 'Band History' page of this website.

We wish you well Len, and I know it won't be too long before we see you again!

Nick Doolan - 12th January 2006