The Springs Boys’ High School band proved dominant in the South African School Band Association National Championships held at Northwood High School in Durban North from October 9 to 11.

The band won five of the six categories in which they participated. Bandmaster Shawn Boucher shared with the Springs Advertiser their journey to the competition.

He said 62 band members travelled to defend their title at the nationals, adding that they had to leave behind 13 members due to financial constraints. He also said that leaving them was hard for the band.

The band left the school on the evening of October 8 and arrived in KZN early on October 9. Boucher said 16 schools competed in the nationals, among them Durban, Empangeni and Northwood high schools, Hoërskool Drie Riviere and Parktown Boys’ High.

He said that on their arrival, they had to practise to fill the positions of the missing members, which was hard after a long, tiring trip.

“On Thursday evening, the boys were treated to a free meal from Rocomamas on Florida Road after we put on a small show for them and the patrons.

“The atmosphere was amazing, and the free meals filled the boys as we headed back to our accommodation exhausted after a long day of travelling, rehearsing and performing,” said Boucher.

Boucher said that the band competed on October 10 in individual competitions. They won four golds, four silvers and five bronze certificates. October 11 started with concert-type bands in the hall. Boucher said some were outstanding.

“Our band was trembling after seeing some of the talent, but we took that stage aiming to win. Unfortunately, our open concert only achieved a second position, trailing by 2.25%, but our jazz ensemble killed it, leading by 12%.

“This is only the second time we have entered this category,” said the bandmaster.

After lunch, the competition moved to the cricket fields. The drumline and parade band, led by drum major Tshiamo Mothiba and the showband, performed the shows they had made changes to just two days prior.

He added that they were unsure how they would do against their rivals, Empangeni High School, as they were amazing on the day, but they stood together, said their prayers and left their fate in God’s hands.

“Finally, it was time for the prize-giving and for us to find out how the band was ranked. Again, another obstacle and lightning sensors caused us to move the prize-giving indoors. Our nerves were shot, but it was all worth it,” concluded Boucher.

The results:
• Jazz ensemble (concert bands with 20 members or less): first place;
• Open concert (concert band with electronic equipment): second place;
• Drumline: First place;
• Parade band: First place;
• Drum major: First place;
• Showband: First place.

ALSO CHECK: Bejandri Lourens brings home Continental Queen of Africa crown from Philippines