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Despite being born at an early age, Ady showed
no musical ability until in 1970 an audition for the school
band enabled him to escape recorder lessons. Five years with
the late lamented Beanfield School band (indeed the school
itself is now demolished-ha ha where are you now Mr Watson?)
led to the delights of 2nd baritone, then Bb bass, several
appearances in the National Finals competing against several
players from Lostwithiel Youth band who would much later become
his friends! Leaving school saw transfers to Kettering Town
and then Corby Silver bands and another trip to the Finals
this time in section 4 on Eb bass. Marriage and a move to
Bedford led to several barren band years, but playing in an
ensemble promoting Hofmeister Lager enabled Ady to keep his
hand in, and led to being made redundant by George the bear
(remember him?). Redundancy, divorce and a move to Rugby led
to the Bilton Silver Band, a step up to the old section 2,
several years very happy banding on Eb bass, a sousaphone
bought for a bet and much more. A further change of work in
1991 led to Cornwall, 2 years with the now defunct Kernow
Band, then a move to Bodmin Town band and a step up to the
top section at the ancient age of 35! The last 14 years have
seen more trips to the National finals, Cambridge Masters,
Brass in Concert amongst other events. Currently looking at
the band from the 2nd Bb bass chair, Ady's dearest wish is
to qualify from the Grand Shield and play at the British Open,
and get the last stamp in the book. We shall see.
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