David & his father Robert Childs were invited to New Zealand to adjudicate New Zealand's prestigious Championships. Supported by Besson Musical Instruments, part of the larger Buffet Wind Group they heard hundreds of brass musicians over four days.
Below you'll find David's facebook diary from his first visit to New Zealand, aswell as some entertaining video diaries! From Tokyo to New Zealand...
"My Dad and I are now in New Zealand - we arrived in Christchurch earlier today. Tomorrow, together with Stephen Moschner (Sales Manager - Buffet Wind Group Australia & New Zealand), we make our way to Timaru for the NZ Brass Band Championships! Looking forward to it - good luck to all the competitors!"
"Apparently last night at 10pm a strong earthquake struck off the west coast of New Zealand's North Island, shaking residents across a wide area and toppling goods from shelves! The 7.0 magnitude quake was felt throughout central New Zealand, but there were no reports of major damage or injuries, and I slept through it!"
"Now in Timaru - lovely part of the world. Had fun this afternoon adjudicating solos and duets. More of the same tonight..."
The evening contest was the "Invitational Slow Melody" - Check out this first video diary from New Zealand for an insight into the life of an adjudicator(!) and to find out who took the podium places in the Invitational Slow Melody...
"Good Morning (Good evening back home!)... Had an enjoyable 1st day in NZ. Hotel in Timaru is overlooking Caroline Bay, and although the weather is very 'British' (!) its a pretty place to be. Heard some good playing yesterday and looking forward to more of the same today. Good luck to all the competitors..."