Sam says “Au revoir” to Woodfalls Band

Woodfalls Band would like to announce the retirement of stalwart cornet player Brian ‘Sam’ Easterbrook. Brian, known to everyone as Sam, joined Woodfalls Band in 1974 and served with distinction as band secretary from 1983 to 2013.

Band chairman Paul Street said “During Sam’s tenure as band secretary he worked tirelessly for the band, most notably securing a thirteen year sponsorship from South West Trains, two National Lottery Grants including funding for a major band hall refurbishment. The band has much to thank for all that hard work to secure our future.”

Dr Robert Childs, Woodfalls Band’s Musical Director added “Sam also organised many Woodfalls Band concerts including four in the magnificent Salisbury Cathedral and from 2000, the annual “We Will Remember Them” concert which has raised thousands of pounds for the Royal British Legion “Poppy Appeal”. We estimate that in the last twenty years all those concerts, cruise ship play offs, grant applications, CD sales and other revenue that Sam has organised has secured more than £400,000 for the band, that is a huge achievement and we will miss his contribution.”

Brian Easterbrook added “It’s been a difficult decision for me to leave Woodfalls Band and join local rivals Hyde Band. I have several family connections at Hyde and would like to spend more time with them. Nevertheless Woodfalls will always be dear to my heart.”

Sam’s final concert with the band was our joint event with Southampton Youth Brass band in Chandlers Ford helping to raise funds for the youth band’s trip to Spain.