This morning we were greeted by the sight of snow falling outside as we ate breakfast at the hotel restaurant. As we went outside to load the coach it was not as cold as predicted, but there was definitely a chill in the breeze.
When everyone was loaded up, Band Master Jim and the percussionists headed to Hokusei University to set-up. While the rest of the band split into 3 groups and headed to some of the local nurseries (kindergartens), to play a selection of Christmas Carols to the young ones.
In our setting we gave the nursery a New Zealand Silver Fern flag and a bit of kiwi memorabilia, as well as some cards featuring the full band for the teachers and teacher aides on site.
There was so much enthusiasm eminately not only from the children but also from the band ensemble, so much so that Wayne gave them a brief preview of some Maori culture. Which was absolutely awesome and the children got into it big time, I’d almost say that they didn’t want us to go by the number of high-fives and handshakes that we received over and over again.
The coach came and picked us up, so that we could go to the University and we tightly gathered in a smallish Chapel. Due to its construction the sound of the band resonated beautifully in the Chapel and Olivia’s voice reverberated extraordinarily so that it brought a tear to the eye of many for sure.
The afternoon was spent taking the coach for 5 hours to Engaru through one or two blizzards along the way.
While on the coach we heard a testimony from David and then were subjected to a Kangaroo Court session in which indiscretions that have taken place since leaving Wellington were recounted, much to everyone’s amasumement including those that were fined for them.
Upon arriving at the Engaru Welfare Centre we had a brief rehearsal with the Engaru School Wind Band. When they played a rendition of Goldcrest and Shine with the Wellington Citadel Band during the later concert it was absolutely amazing.
Their are many talented young people around, they need the opportunity to shine in settings such as this. When you factor in the fact that we have a number of young people in the WCB, just as long as they stick to it, there is a bright future for all types of banding.
#wcbtour2019
The life and times of Perry... 