On Wednesday 18th March, The Wansbeck Music Festival opened with its first heats for Steelpans.

The event, held at KEVI, saw Chantry Steelpans enter 4 Bands, 4 Ensembles and a Soloist whilst Newminster Steelpans also entered their Band and an Ensemble who were all up against other Steelpan Groups from around Northumberland and North Tyneside.

The players all performed different pieces including Classical music, Jazz, Pop Hits and more traditional Calypso style music, all arranged and lead by Jenny Gilberg.

Chantry and Newminster performed fantastically and, although a bit of a nervous start, raised the roof with the steelpan sound. It was a proud moment for all.

Congratulations go to Chantry Group 1 who came 2nd in the Under 11’s Steelpans Band Category, Chantry Group 3 who came 3rd in the Under 13’s Steelpan Band Category and to Erin Brouard, Amelia Strong and Ellie Cape who came 2nd in the Under 13’s Steelpan Ensemble Category.

A particular congratulation goes to Claire Simpson who, with her friend Tamsin, won the Under 13’s Steelpan Ensemble Category.

Well Done to all who took part in the event and certificates can be viewed in the display cabinet in  the main reception at Chantry Middle School.