Audenshaw Masonic Lodge, Manchester 2006

Well, our first gig of the new year and it was a corker! This was a repeat booking as we were here this time last year almost exactly to the day. This was an engagement with a difference. I shall explain...

We arrived early to set-up before they dined and waited in the dressing room. John has become an addict of the new Soduku puzzle craze and can be seen here deep in concentration!





The founder of this particular feast was the jolly decent Bill Williamson. As well as the usual warm reception and generosity, we were treated to the audience, during the interval, entertaining us!! Yes you read correctly, the chaps all stood as one voice and with perfect harmonies regaled us with some barber shop gems.

This sight was truly moving and we applauded them enthusiastically. Their precision and warmth of tone suggested they practise often, though they rather modestly said it was just a hobby and they only did it every now and then. Remarkable.





George's Sousaphone always attracts attention and often George can be heard explaining its origins as "John Sousa, the American bands man......."





The only other amusing event I have to report is the rather embarrassing confession that in my haste to unload, I inadvertently forgot to take out my ukulele; this only occurred to me as the Formby medley loomed, so for the first time ever it was performed on the banjo! Sorry Mr. Formby if you're listening!!