Young achievements celebrated at RYB awards evening

Celebrations were in order for Riverside Youth Band when it recognised the achievements of its young members throughout its 10th anniversary year.

The Inverclyde organisation rounded off a busy season with its awards night and ceilidh – the first in-person presentation evening for three years, courtesy of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Members of the organisation’s Youth and Training bands and Riverside Rookies, alongside leaders and volunteers, descended on the town’s 68 Club for the glittering bash, with entertainment provided by the McHart Ceilidh Band.

Duncan Galbraith, chairman of Riverside Youth Band, explained: “After the challenges for community music making brought about by the pandemic, getting back together has been a triumph.

“We were delighted to mark players’ considerable achievements and offer an opportunity for members to let their hair down after an intensive period of rehearsals and performances.”

Youth Band

Receiving the Cathie Sinclair Memorial Trophy for Bandsperson of the Year was Inverclyde Academy pupil (and Cathie’s granddaughter) Andrea Crumlish.

The Clive Good Memorial Shield for Most Improved Player went to Gus Paton, who also received the Jack Leitch Memorial Trophy for Outstanding Performance at Riverside’s solo competition earlier in the year.

Training Band

Bandsperson of the Year, receiving the John Lee Millar Memorial Trophy, was Scott Smith, of Inverclyde Academy. 

The winner of the Most Improved Player was Kyle Baxter, of Notre Dame, who also received the novelty award of RYB Deadpan Dude 2021-22.

Section of the Year was the percussion section in the Training Band, winner of the Sight Reading Award was Mark Gammon and a special contribution prize was awarded to Katie Livingstone for her work in welcoming new, younger players to the band.

The first Rookie of the Year Award was presented to Stuart Smith, of Aileymill Primary.

Riverside Rookies leader Laura Good with Rookie of the Year Stuart Smith

Mark Good, musical director of RYB, commented: “Getting together for our awards night was a perfect way to round off a busy year for Riverside. Seeing players, parents, supporters and volunteers enjoying an evening of celebrations was very special for our band family.

“The McHart Ceilidh Band ensured we enjoyed a fantastic ceilidh, keeping people on the dance floor all night long.”

Riverside Youth Band is always keen to welcome new members on brass or percussion. Contact: info@riversideyouthband.co.uk

Cover photo: RYB’s 10th anniversary birthday cake was made by Jennifer Docherty.

Some of the award winners with Mark and Laura Good