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Neil Ussher is Ravara’s new Leading Drummer
Neil Ussher has returned to Ravara replacing Aaron McCarten as Leading Drummer, Neil left the band to take up the role of leading drummer with Upper Crossgare in 2006 having been with Ravara for the previous 13 years. Neil hopes to continue with the successful tradition of drumming Ravara has become renowned for.
Welcome back and good luck Neill!
North West Championships, Portrush 22nd August
The day before the main event there’s a junior solo contest and Scott Barr was representing Ravara in the under 14 and under 16 piping contests – it proved to a very successful outing for him with first places in both events, well done Scott!
As a contest venue Portrush is great if the weather’s kind but if it’s not then everyone braces them selves for a hard day. The forecast was for a mixed day and as it turned out it stayed dry for the most part but was a bit on the nippy side with a strong wind swirling around Ramore Head. We were in good spirits after our results at the Worlds so we wanted to finish the season off with a strong performance – it was medley so a change in approach from the last few weeks.
There were only two bands playing in our grade so although the competition would be limited it would still be tight with Seven Towers out with the same intent as us to finish strongly. Our preparation went well and as we got closer to the line the view of the large crowd got us geared up; on we went and played our last contest performance of the season.
The post performance review in Portrush is usually followed with several members gathering for a discussion in a local meeting place where lemonade of various varieties and flavours are sold in pint volumes…this occasion was no different.
The results showed we were right to be happy with our playing - the band swept the board with four firsts so we did indeed end the contest season on a strong note. In the drum major contest Emma Barr came through in second place, well done again Emma – a great season for you!
Ravara has always been a close knit band so with the happiness and successes of the day there was also a fair bit of sadness during and after the parade through Portrush – Aaron and I (and subsequently Nigel) have decided to move on. The band wished us well in our new ventures and the close ties will remain in future so make sure there are always spare seats on the bus…I think I can speak on behalf of the others when I say thank you to everyone involved with the band for all the good times, friendship, support and camaraderie over the years. We wish the band every success in the future and will always look out for Ravara’s results. Whoever comes in to replace Aaron has a corps to be proud of and a band who’ll give all the support needed.
Well there we have it for another season, leaves falling, frost in the morning, snow on the hills, scraping your car windscreen, bands going into hibernation for a month or two except those getting ready for the solo drumming…I think DC will be taking charge of the pen from now on so over to you big boy!
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