West Lothian bands strike gold at national finals
Three West Lothian wind bands were celebrating Gold Awards at the recent Scottish Concert Band Festival National Finals in Perth.
Talented pupils from the West Lothian Schools Wind Ensemble, West Calder High School Wind Band and The James Young High School Wind Band all put in excellent performances to win the top awards at the first event of its kind since the Covid pandemic.
The West Calder High School Wind Band, led by conductor Sue Evans, achieved the sought-after Gold Plus Award in the Achieving School Band Class. Their solo flautist, Cailin McKenna from S5, was especially praised by the adjudicators for beautiful playing in 'To A Distant Place'.
The West Lothian Schools Wind Ensemble and The James Young High School Wind Band both achieved the Gold award in the Developing Youth Band Class and Development Sections respectively, and both conducted by Jennifer Kelly.
Executive councillor for education Andrew McGuire said: "Huge congratulations to everyone from
West Lothian Schools Wind Ensemble, West Calder High School Wind Band and The James Young High School Wind Band on their amazing success.
"For West Lothian to have three bands competing in the Scottish Concert Band Festival National Finals shows the depth of talent we have in West Lothian, which was commented on by the judges.
"The awards are fantastic recognition for all the hard work and effort put in by pupils, supported by staff and parents/carers."
