Alex Field Band shines in competition
JOBURG - The Alexandra Field Band shines at the Field Band Foundation's National Championships at the Wanderers Stadium on 28 September.
The Alexandra Field Band’s fine run of creativity in the Field Band Foundation National Championships continued this year as it was rewarded with a silver medal as second runners-up in the premier division.
The Alex outfit also collected medals for third place for Best Dance Performance and Best Pit Percussion in a competition where music from various field bands reverberated around the Wanderers Stadium. More than 1 700 young musicians from around the country took part in the national championships.
The spectators who poured into the stadium on a sunny spring morning were treated to a thrilling display of marching bands, as budding young instrumentalists and dancers clad in colourful costumes showed their musical mettle.
Fourteen field bands from under-resourced areas including the Parys/Vredefort Field Band that has members with disabilities, poured
their hearts and souls into their performances on the day.
The competition was tough and the calibre of the performances was high, but only one field band in the premier division could lift the national championship trophy. This year, that honour went to the De Beers PPC Kimberley Field Band, which has won a number of previous championships, regained the title it last held in 2011. They were also awarded the prizes for Best Dance Performance and Best Showcase Design.
The first runners-up were last year’s winners, PFG Londolusha Field Band from Springs. The band also took home the awards for Best Overall Musical Performance and Best Pit Percussion.
Another Gauteng outfit, the Alexandra Field Band, continued their fine run of creative form and were rewarded with a silver medal as second runners-up in the premier division. They also collected medals for third position as Best Dance Performance and Best Pit Percussion.
Speaking at the event, Sibusiso Xaba, director-general of the Department of Arts and Culture, said the competition was a true reflection of the country’s cultural heritage and diversity. He confirmed the department’s financial support of the championships for the next three years.
