WARNERS BAY UNITING CHURCH – THE WILLOWS
The Concert opened with the 2020 Leo Thomas composition, The Christmas Feeling, which, in the words of the composer, was designed to promote the feeling of joy. It was well-received. Mistletoe and Wine, a Sir Cliff Richard release from 1988, followed.
A highlight of the first half was O Holy Night, featuring a euphonium solo performed by Lance Turner. The well-known Carols Joy to the World, Silent Night and Hark the Herald Angels Sing were included, while The Little Drummer Boy (actually played by drummer girl Heather Walker) drew sustained applause. Twelve numbers formed the first half, finishing with the very popular 1971 composition by John Lennon and Yoko Ono, Happy Christmas (War is Over).
The second half opened with The Wonder of Christmas, a festive march, featuring a medley of Christmas tunes. When a Child is Born, a 1976 hit for Johnny Mathis, followed. Comfort and Joy, first published in 1760, also commonly known as God Rest Ye, Merry Gentlemen, caught the audience by surprise, as this Martyn Thomas arrangement was quite” jazzy”. Some “foot-tapping” was observed in the audience. The Carols O Come All Ye Faithful and Away in a Manger were featured, as was the forever popular tune that both children and adults enjoy, Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer.
Thirteen tunes were presented in the second half, with the Jose Feliciano number from 1970, Feliz Navidad (Merry Christmas) completing the printed Program, The Concert saw an Encore number originally written in 1950 for the Boston Pops Orchestra, A Christmas Festival wrap up the show.
It could be said that a good time was had by all!
Cardiff Northlakes Brass Band acknowledges the financial support provided by City of Lake Macquarie for this Christmas Concert. It is most appreciated and ensures the financial viability of this Community Band. Cardiff Northlakes Brass Band is also pleased to contribute to the varied musical culture of the City with the “Sounds of Brass”.
Allan Shaw
President
Cardiff Brass 
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