Success is getting what you want; happiness is liking what you get

Sunday 16 August 2009

Last Night at the Proms

Yes, that’s where we were last night, at the Proms. We went last year, and enjoyed it so much that we just had to go again this year. The concert was held in our local theatre and gallery, Expressions Art and Entertainment Centre. Both the Union Jack and New Zealand flags hung above the stage to provide the right atmosphere. As the patrons seated themselves we noticed that many were carrying flags to wave, as well as the hooters and whistles that seem to be such a very big part of these concerts. The Upper Hutt Cosmopolitan Club Brass Band looked very smart in their light blue blazers. All the highly polished instruments reflected the light as the musicians started playing through the evening’s programme. The guest soloist, Riki McDonnell, delighted us with his skill in playing the Euphonium. He is the only player in New Zealand Banding to have won Champion of Champions on four different instruments.

DSCF1748 Expressions – our local art gallery and concert hall

As the second half of the programme came to an end, all the audience were eagerly awaiting the tunes that we could sing along to, such as Rule Britannia. Out came the whistles and we all happily tapped our feet and blew loudly as the songs progressed. Then we pulled on our Party Poppers and with a “bang” the streamers went everywhere. A whole swag of balloons were released from a net slung over the audience and these were gaily batted about the hall. It was great to see so much fun and hilarity at a concert full of grey haired patrons, us included. It was a fun night out, and close to home.

DSCF1750

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