So 2020 is coming to an end. Thank goodness. It has been a horrible year in so many ways. I have never known so many people in need of a collective hug, denied by lockdown rules that tear us apart emotionally and financially for the health of the nation.

We (at Fairlop) have been a microcosm. A subset. In even our limited number of players and supporters; this year has seen more than it’s fair share of tragedy and bad news.

But we look forward. The band was born in a thunderstorm and is one of those phenomenons whose sum is greater than it’s parts. Anyone who has spent time merely listening to the band, will be unaware of the gold seam of goodwill and kindness that runs through the ranks. This is a band made up of people who care. They donate much time and energy without even thought of recompense, for the good of others. Even when they cannot play together, they take time to communicate and support each other, and find inventive ways of trying to put a smile on our lips. Players past present and future cannot help but be burned by the flame of goodness that is at the heart of Fairlop Brass Band. 

And the music they make is not too shabby either.

So I, for one, am looking towards the new year with optimism. I await with eager anticipation, whatever it takes to put a nail in the coffin of this horrible pandemic. For the first ‘live music’ events that can be safely held indoors. For the warm sound of brass instruments played in harmony rising like a church organ to lift our spirits and restore our souls.

Not long now.