So you might think that life on the road in a Brass Band is glamorous (!!!). In fact the harsh reality of Brass Band life is the 'Summer Job'. The 'Summer Season' lasts from May to September and, because of the unpredictability of the British weather, is either unbearably hot or cold and wet. However, as most bands in the UK are self-financing, the summer can be profitable and bands must take the opportunity to earn some cash. The 'Summer Job' can be fetes, bandstands, craft fairs, rallies and shows.

Joking aside -  if the weather is good playing outside to an appreciative audience can be fun.

Over the last few years the Rushden Windmill Band has played at the Holcot Steam Rally in Northamptonshire. The following pictures come from that event.

The Rushden Windmill Band, painted 'live' at Holcot in August 2001.

The Artist is Dave Suter, some of his pictures are a bit 'saucy'!!, anyway if you fancy having your portrait done contact him using the link below:

The rest of the photographs were taken, by Jane as she is NOT in any of them !!, at Holcot in August 2003...

Dave and Richard discuss some musical point...while Alan is whispering in someone's ear...!!!

Bill, Dave, Mark and Elaine (who has just trekked through the 'outback') relax in the sun.

A 'gaggle' of trombones - Alan, Mick and Sally......and Ian.

Sally has found something to laugh at...the chap, standing just out of sight, is Dave Suter (see above) - well I did say some of his paintings are a bit 'saucy'..!!!

...and finally.....

'...well I thought the cornets were a bit out-of-tune and the intonation was a bit dodgy.....'

These two seem to be discussing our performance....oh well!!, you can't please everybody...!!!

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