Good centre contest results bodes well
The day started well with NZPPB taking the Street March event, then putting in some good performances on the boards. The Medley was the better of the musical events, with strong piping results. The MSR was a better run for the drummers, but overall a much better contest for the Band, and a great dry-run for the nationals...
Preparations for provincials
Final practice sessions are underway at the RNZPC (no doubt the latest wing of police recruits could pick up a set of pipes and just about play the MSR by now). The Wellington Centre contest at Masterton is set to go, and one of the most successful police dogs in the Wellington District has been assigned to accompany the band in the street march (successful in policing terms means good at catching crooks and holding onto them). Remember, don't pat the pooch unless invited by the handler...
Band swelters and wilters under the Turakina sun
First run for 2010 was completed on a hot dry Turakina day. No dodging the facts, it was an average day at the office for the lads and the lasses. Some better results in the solos with the Pipey winning the open strath n' reel. Jahnee and Amanda placed top in the tenor drumming, amongst others. Still, as a Wellington based band, the novelty factor of seeing the sun for an entire day made the trip North worthwhile on its own.
2010
A new year and some new music has arrived. The Band regathers for its first practice weekend at RNZPC on 16 Feb (in the gloom of a howl'n southerly wind and buckets o' rain). Hopefully the weather will settle in time for the serious contest work ahead...
Police Drummers win at Palmy Nth Square Day
Dodging the weather became a key part of day for all the bands. Overall 4th with the drummers taking the overall prize. A fun after-contest BBQ afterwards, and a fine end to 2009.
Police Band Wins Christchurch Victoria Square Day
It's been a few years since the Band traveled to the South Island for the first contest of the NZ season, and the outing proved successful. The Band pitched up 2nd to Canty Cale in the MSR with a mix of 2nd and 1st placing from the judiciary, but made a strong sweep of 1st places in the Medley, leaving the over-all winning a close win to NZPPB. Drumming swinging Cale's way on MSR preference. The following day the Band ventured to contest in Oamaru. All in all an enjoyable visit to the beautiful south.
Farewell Mr Chu
Adding to the colour of a multi-cultural evening, Piper Supt. McCardle ushered in Mr Ke Feng Chu and family to the main hall at RNZPC for his farewell dinner. Mr Chu has been an inspirational cultural leader for NZ Police, and takes up a new government role next month.
Band AGM 2009
The Annual General Meeting was held at the Matai Room at RNZPC on Saturday 21 November after the main practice. Pipe Major Iain Robertson and Drum Sergeant Raymond Malcolm were returned to office unopposed (and loud applause). In fact all the band officers remained the same with the exception of Dale Stephens moving to the playing ranks, and Andrae Peipi taking on the Drum Major's role. Lance Rairi joins the committee and remains Banc Custodian. The forward development plan remained constant, and managing the Band within budget a key feature. Assistant Commissioner Jon White presided and his report recalled a busy and productive year for the Band. A short dram of whisky sealed the deals at the end of general business.
Ceilidh 2009 at RNZPC
It was a modest but successful affair at the ol' RNZPC bar on Sat 7 Nov. Friends and family of the Band gathered for a night of dancing and social fun. The Band showcased a range of musical talents many never knew existed, former highland dancers were pressed back into service, the crowd rediscovered long lost dance moves (perhaps better left lost in some cases), and all declared the night a success. The haggis was warm, reek'n and rich, and some of the showcased piping was top drawer.
Farewell to Deputy Commissioner Provost
Band pipers ushered in Ms Provost and husband for their farewell dinner at RNZPC on 2 October. Ms Provost takes up her new role as Controller and Auditor-General of New Zealand, and the Band wishes her well and thanks her for her support over the past seven years as Deputy Commissioner of Police.
Lower Hutt Community Concert
Pipers Craig and Douglas Fraser turned out to give the Lower Hutt Community a 'blaw' at its annual concert.
Away to Richmond (2009 recession busting NZPPB style)
It's been many years since the Band performed in the fun format of mini-banding, and a good time was had by all. Many thanks to our hosts in Richmond and Nelson who really made our visit enjoyable. Fine winter weather and good social and musical times were enjoyed.
Wellington Pipers Club hosted at RNZPC
The Band was happy to assist with the venue for the Wellington Pipers Club Brown Cup for the 2nd year. The event was won by Stuart Easton playing Gathering of Clan Chattan, 2nd was Linsay May playing Lament for the Vicount of Dundee, and 3rd Iain Roberston with Lament for McDonalds Tutor.
Queensland Band and Solo Champs 13 June
PM Iain Robertson and Piper Tam McGirr featured well in the prize list at the recent Brisbane solos. Well-done to both.
2009 National Contest - Christchurch - 4th
Well not the result the Band was looking for, though not for a lack of trying. Congratulations to AnD for the championship win.
Square Day - Police drummers 1st
Great to see band Life Member and renown solo piper JD Hanning back on the park with the band at the Square Day contest. This was a contest of mixed fortunes, the good parts were the drummers winning (big ups for Raymundo and team), good attacks and good musical performances. The areas for improvement from the Pipe Major's view are eliminating odd blooters and sound. The contest also provided a run for new players, and all-in-all it looks like a great 2009 season is ahead of us.
Funerals and graduations a plenty
Band pipers have been busy in and around Wellington with graduating recruits and funerals for retired members. Retired Chief Inspectors Ian Croxford and Tom Nunnan both passed on recently with large services held in their respective towns.
