N.Z. Band Beaten By One Point At Kerkrade

Press, Volume CI, Issue 29901, 15 August 1962, Page 17

N.Z. Band Beaten By One Point At Kerkrade

(ipec'al Correspondent V Z.P.A.I

LONDON, August 13. “Naturally we are disappointed we did not win, but this is contesting and we congratulate the Israel Gadna Youth Orchestra of Tel Aviv on beating us by one point,” said Mr R. E. Belgrave, manager of the National Band of New Zealand, on his return today from Holland. He feaid the band gave 11 performances in addition to competing at the world music contest at Kerkrade and was heard by a total audience estimated at 47.000. During the band’s final performances at Haarley people drove up to 60 miles tn hear the New Zealanders. There was a moving moment at the British cemetery at Arnhem where pome 2000 parachutists are buried. When the New Zealanders learned they were near the cemetery they made

a special visit and played two hymns, “Deep Harmony” and “Abide With Me.” which were heard by a group of British soldiers making a pilgrimage to Arnhem.

The bandsmen are now having leave —some in Holland, others in Germany and Britain —before reassembling at Manchester before -going to Birmingham, Coventry. Edinburgh, and back to Cornwall for a final week at the beginning of September.

Mr Belgrade said that while in Holland the band made a long-playing record for which the recording company is paying a royalty of about Is 3d on every record sold. "This shouki be a useful source of income to the New Zealand Brass Bands’ Association.'’ he added. “I understand it is the highest royalty the company has so far paid.”