Sir, – As a full-time professional tenor, I was engaged to sing in a concert in Maynooth to raise funds for the Cleft Lip and Palate Association (Ireland) on February 16th. The Garda Band also offered their services free for the evening.
I have enjoyed performing on many occasions with the magnificent Army bands of Ireland, but less frequently with the Garda Band. The gardaí often come in for criticism, but I suppose I had been quite unaware of the incredibly high standard of musicianship, virtuosic playing, and all-round uplifting entertainment value that an evening in the company of these gregarious musicians entails.
What an absolute joy from beginning to end, and what a hidden treasure this band is. I just wanted to say a very public “Bravi!”. – Yours, etc,