As 2011 ends, we look back on an interesting and challenging time for the band.

Those of you who keep up to date with our news will be aware of the player moves and contest results which we have posted on the website throughout the year, and we have recently rounded off the season with our annual Christmas concert, which was held in St. John’s church in Epping on December 3^rd.

Once again, we were joined by the young musicians from St. John’s school under the direction of Rebecca Harvey, which added another layer to the programme. As well as their own featured pieces, the two bands came together to accompany the audience in some traditional carols, set as usual amongst the spectacular array of Christmas trees on display in the church.

We have changed our Christmas Carolling arrangements for this season - Due to weather issues and licensing restrictions, our usual habit of playing carols round the streets of Epping was not entirely successful last year, so this time we decided to go for something different, and secured a day playing at Van Hage’s garden centre near Ware. Although it was a rather cold day, this proved to be a successful and enjoyable event, as well as a good fundraiser for the band.

As we consider the coming year, we are optimistic that it will be a good one for us - The band has gained several new players, to the point that we only have one empty seat in the main band and we are looking forward to the usual round of contests and concerts to keep us busy working, as usual, under the baton of Denis Desmond, our Musical Director.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank all the people who have supported us throughout the year and look forward to seeing you all again in 2012.