Not even a huge electrical storm could dampen the enthusiasm and excitement of over 125 instrumentalists getting together for an evening of fabulous music and making friends.

In a first for Mountains Youth Band, the combined concert with a touring overseas band saw a packed Springwood Civic Centre enjoy three excellent bands perform music ranging from popular show tunes and jazz to a hymn and classics. Barry Gray and the young pipers and drummers of Hawkesbury City Pipe Band once again gave the show a unique quality. It was a wonderful night.

Mountains Youth Band, the Mary Ward Stage Band (really a jazz orchestra!) and Mary Ward Concert Band played a set each, under the musical direction of Garry Clark, John Volpe and Richard Jatiouk. The talent amongst the youth instrumentalists was very obvious. The music was first class and the audience clearly enjoyed all items. It was also evident that the bands enjoyed listening to each other and hearing the different music played.

The highlights of the night were the two closing numbers where the combined ensemble played the beautiful Legends of the Yucatan under the baton of composer Vince Gassi and Last Ride of the Pony Express conducted by Garry Clark. After the final applause, the bands stayed seated, clearly wanting to continue performing. The standing ovation from the audience was evidence of the quality of the music and the long good-byes at the end of the night showed that this event was more than just about making music.

Congratulations to everyone on a wonderful show!