A SCHOOL band recorded another success in a top music festival.

The 27-piece big band, from Tudhoe Grange School, near Spennymoor, won the schools award in the University of Sunderland's jazz competition.

Judges were impressed with the band's overall performances and gave special credit to solo saxaphonists, a strong trombone section and described the music as controlled. Judges said the band gave a well polished performance.

Soloists Ruth Perriss, Reanna Quinn, Thomas Braithwaite, Nicola Monaghaun and Brogan McGarr were praised and Kirsty Biddulph, on the alto sax, won the soloist award.

Head of music Adrian Biddulph said: "I'm over the moon with it, very proud as should all the students who took part.

"We couldn't have played any better than we did, they have put of a lot of work and extra rehearsals into band practice, jazz improvisations and solo work."

The band, which has performed on the national stage and released several CDs, is now looking forward to a performance with the Reg Vardy Band, at Spennymoor Leisure Centre, on Saturday, May 21.

Published: 05/03/2005