Visit to Salisbury by Casalbuttano and Offanengo Bands
Friday 18th August 2017

   In 2017 we were lucky to host a brief, but packed, visit by our friends from Italy in Salisbury's historic Guildhall. The evening began with a short concert provided by the Learners' Group  who played "Midnight Mission" and "The Grand March from Aida", with our visitors, accompanied by an impromptu choir. This was followed by the visitors' stirring renditions of "E' Arrivato L'Ambasciatore", accompanied by Helen Palmer, busking on a borrowed baritone.

  During supper we were entertained by Clive Burroughs' small group, "Brassed Toffs". The visitors were then invited to visit the ancient Oak Magistrates' Court in the Guildhall, accompanied by an informed, but largely invented, explanation from Ray Brotherton.

  The evening finished with both bands combining to perform a variety of modern dance pieces conducted by Clive, with some splendid dancing from the non-playing guests. We finished the evening with another spirited renditions of "Leganda Del Piave", played by all the muscians under the direction of Andrea Maggioni.

  An enjoyable evening was had by all, and thanks must go to the Band's committee, in particular: Brian Carter, Sandra & Richard King, for the overall organisation of the evening. We all look forward to our return visit to Lombardy in 2019 to mark the 100th anniversay of the Offanengo Band.