Today was by far our busiest day yet. Our first engagement of the day saw us playing seated outside a supermarket at the Uptown Shopping Centre. With half the band in the shade, and the remaining half in the blazing sun, lotion and shades were making a big appearance. With a good crowd standing listening, and we are reliably informed by our Band Secretary, Phil Harris, that there were a large number of people listening sat in cars to avoid the heat, this was a very worthwhile event bringing something of the message of the gospel to those who were maybe just out for a shop!
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After a BBQ lunch at the centre, the newly named Bert Riches Memorial Cup (Clanger Pot!) was presented to - of course - Rhianon! She has taken the whole thing very well, as the jokes continue to be made (see Day 3!!)
We then made our way to the Southridge Mall, a much bigger centre than that of the morning. After setting up and making sure we had everything, there was some free time to wander the shops.
With the morning having been spent in our BCB polo-shirts, the time came to get changed into white shirts and festival tunics. Major Kennedy made his daily contribution to the Clanger Pot nominations when he had to go out and buy himself a new white shirt - having left his behind at the hotel that morning!
4pm saw our first of two concerts here today, with just an hour's programme to a good crowd. The 'usual' soloists took their places within the programme, as well as some of our lighter pieces to entertain, but still provoke thought.
Afterwards we had another short break, giving us just enough time for the majority of the band to order t-shirts with our names and squad numbers (each member has a designated number for the tour) on. No specific reason for this, other than for a bit of fun and a memento of the fun and fellowship we have shared as a band thus far.
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At 6pm, BCB were joined by the Des Moines Community Band for a combined programme, with perhaps the biggest audience of the day. The efforts of both bands were appreciated immensely, with many comments being made of their appreciation for us being there. It was during this programme that the presentation was made to the mall's manager, as has been at all of our venues, of the framed band photo taken after our recent pre-tour festival.
Des Moines band were to feature a trumpet quartet - but only had three trumpeters!! However, our own Paul Sharman saved the day by flawlessly sight-reading a rather tricky, jazzy number.
After a short 'reception' for both bands, we all made our way back to the car park to return to the hotel. It was here that one of our 'vans' appeared to be missing from its parking spot, much to confusion of Ian Kershaw. After perhaps 10 minutes, the missing van was found approx 250 metres away from its original space - typical antics of a band such as ours!!
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On arrival back at the hotel, the band split up with some heading straight for bed, while others made trips to various eateries for supper to end off the day.
Words: Laura Scott
Photos: Gordon McKee
