My brass banding career all began when I was born, being brought along to band as a youngster and sleeping in my dads Euphonium case. Being born into a brass banding family, it was inevitable that I was going to catch the brass band bug too! It was most definitely a family affair with my father, Colin Garner, playing Euphonium, my mother on various instruments but mainly Cornet and Tenor Horn, my brother also playing Cornet and my granddad, Wesley Garner, playing Trombone and the musical director of the Solent Concert Band based in Portsmouth. I was Principal Cornet for Solent Concert Band from the age of 13 and played with them, altogether, for over 14 years. I have made many friends through banding and have many fond memories.
My father and my granddad were huge influences in my musical life, teaching and training me to become a Cornet player. I took part in many competitions with the band, in quartets, duets and solo contests, winning most of them. I achieved grade 8 with merit at the age of 15 on Bb Cornet and this enabled me to study music and teaching at Reading University. I achieved a first class honours degree in music and teaching which was one of the highlights of my life.
I joined St Sebastian Wokingham Band whilst I was in my final year of University. My Cornet teacher, Paul Speed, introduced me to the band and I have been there ever since.
Most Memorable playing moment …
Knowing that I played something well when I made my Granddad cry (in a good way!) playing solos with the band. The slow ones always got to him ! I was also pleased with my final year recital at University – 98% for my programme (and I was first on!). One moment I will most definitely NEVER forget is playing Principal Cornet for my Granddad’s funeral with the amazing Kevin Crockford playing behind me on Soprano!
Proudest Banding moment …
I have many proud banding moments. Helping Solent Concert Brass Band into the 1st section whilst playing Principal Cornet, is definitely my first. My second was winning the musician of the year in St Sebastian Brass Band. My third was winning the shield for the most dedicated and improved player for the Wessex Youth Brass Band course, under the direction of Derek Broadbent. I am hoping that I will have many more proud moments to come in the future!
Previous Band …
Solent Concert Band under the musical direction of Wesley Garner
Favourite Piece …
Number 10 in the red hymn books and Triumphant Rhapsody by Gilbert Vinter
Musical Ambition …
I would love to sit Principal Cornet again one day for a band and of course continue to enjoy playing in brass bands; maybe one day, performing at the Royal Albert Hall with Saints!
