THE curtain has come down on a busy year for Inverclyde’s young musicians as they hosted their annual awards night and ceilidh.
Members of Riverside Youth Band and their families attended the celebration at the 68 Club in Port Glasgow, where they danced the night away to the sound of the McHart Ceilidh Band.
Several awards were handed out on the night, including a new scholarship donated by a member of the band’s management team.
The Raymond and Mary Thomson Bursary, given to a member preparing to begin conservatoire studies in music, went to Andrea Crumlish who is headed to the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and Rachel O’Connor who will study at the Royal Academy of Music.
The Cathir Sinclair Memorial Trophy for the youth band’s bandsperson of the year was won by Scott Crumlish – Cathie’s grandson.
Rebecca Marshall of Clydeview Academy took home the Clive Good Memorial Shield for most improved player.
Awards were also given to members of the training band, with Callum McCowan of St Francis Primary winning bandsperson of the year and St Stephen’s High School pupil Annie Jones being named most improved player.
The title of best sightreader went to Bramble Kane, and the Jack Leith Memorial Trophy for outstanding performance to Stuart Smith from Aileymill Primary.
Newark Primary School’s Daniel Marshall was also named rookie of the year.
Duncan Galbraith, chairman of Riverside Youth Band, said: “After a busy year, full of intensive rehearsals and performances, it was lovely for Riverside Youth Band members to be able to relax and celebrate their achievements together.
"Events like the awards night and ceilidh are a great way of continuing to foster the team spirit in the organisation, and it was lovely to see everyone popping on their dancing shoes and having fun as we rounded off a successful year."
Musical director Mark Good added: “During the year, Riverside members work very hard and it's only right that we recognise their stellar musical achievements.
"After the awards ceremony, it was straight on to the ceilidh and our youngsters were never off the dance floor, as they embraced every opportunity to celebrate together.
"It's testament to their hard work, and the warm, nurturing environment in the organisation that we were able to enjoy such a memorable evening together."
Riverside Youth Band rehearses in Port Glasgow New Parish Church on Friday afternoons, with more young brass and percussion players welcome to get involved.
Those interested should contact Duncan at info@riversideyouthband.co.uk or call 07974 106 888.
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