As part of the Foden's and Cheshire East 'Partnership,' Foden's Band  recently held the first 'Inaugural Cheshire East Schools Music Competition' at Congleton Town Hall.

The celebration concert, on Saturday July 10, involved three schools each delivering a 10-minute programme of music, and all three performances were truly outstanding and of the highest quality.

The three schools who took part were Holmes Chapel Comprehensive School, who were represented by a 6-piece jazz band, the Sandbach High School for Girls choir, and the Sandbach Boys school big band. 

Award-winning percussionist Simone Rebello, a star graduate of the Royal Northern College of Music, was present to judge the event, and cast her critical eye over proceedings in the first half of the evening, adjudicating each performance.  The second half of the concert was dedicated to Foden’s band, who provided a concert featuring individual musicians from the three schools.

Following the second half concert, Simone delivered her adjudication, and announced the Sandbach School for Boys Big Band the winners, who were awarded the inaugural Cheshire East Schools Music Trophy. 

Speaking about the contest John Barber Chairman of Foden's Band stated 'Foden's Band are proud to be a Partner with Cheshire East, and we are delighted that the event has been so well received and enjoyable for the band, the audience and all the schools involved.  It is hoped the Cheshire East Schools' Music Competition will become an annual event celebrating the diverse and high quality music making within East Cheshire.' 

Councillor Andrew Knowles, Cabinet member with responsibility for health and wellbeing, said: “This is a fantastic event and the competition will give Cheshire’s rich musical talent a real showcase in which to shine.  It was a really enjoyable evening of superb music that hopefully will inspire many more youngsters and schools to develop their musical talent and aim for the very highest standards. Cheshire has a rich musical heritage and this event can only enhance it further.”