Brackenwood Garden Party concert is a hit for charity, raising £2,400

We all woke up on Sunday 25 July to heavy rain and dark clouds. It was touch and go as to whether the Brackenwood Garden Party concert could go ahead. 

Some band members smiling for the camera just before the concert

All morning band members kept messaging each other with weather updates comparing how much rain we had where we each lived – from beyond Poole all the way to Ferndown.

Luckily, we ignored our weather apps, looked up at the sky and decided to go for it. Turns out it was a good decision because the rain held off!

Craft stalls, cream teas and stunning grounds

We played a packed programme full of summer favourites while people explored the craft and plant stalls, and relaxed in the beautiful garden grounds. The turnout was fantastic and the £2,400 raised has gone to a charity close to people’s hearts – Poole Hospital Cancer Centre.

The first half kicked off with a strong number – Great Escape. Followed by some Disney classics, Pirates of the Caribbean and a well-known folk song and jazz waltz.

We were treated to a cream tea during the interval, which gave us all the energy we needed to play the second half! We also got to explore the stunning garden and lakes during half time.

In the second half we played more toe-tapping tunes including Batman and a medley of Abba songs to get people singing along. We also performed a quirky number called ‘Pink Panther Meets the Wizard of Oz’, and played the band’s favourite piece – Lion King.

A big shout out to the piccolos who had some really fast and difficult passages in our finale Stars and Stripes. They aced it!

Performing music together again after 16 months

Band standing as the crowd cheers after our encore

With government guidelines saying bands can rehearse and perform again, we were so happy to be able to play music together after such a long time. The concert was the perfect way to ease back into performing. It was all outdoors and the atmosphere was very relaxed.

We’d forgotten what it’s like to perform. It was so nice looking out and seeing our families, friends and visitors supporting and cheering us on.

Garden Party next year, anyone?

Next year’s Garden Party is in the diary and we’re already looking forward to it! Thank you Fay for being a fantastic organiser. We loved being a part of your event 🙂

Check out our Facebook and Instagram pages for more videos and photos of the concert.

By Emma on flute