Hitchin Band was delighted to return to the historic grounds of Knebworth House this Bank Holiday Monday to conclude the 2026 Hertfordshire Garden Show. As one of Hertfordshire’s premier spring attractions, the event drew thousands of visitors who enjoyed a vibrant mix of gardening displays, craft stalls, and live entertainment.

For Hitchin Band the performance was a classic marathon “gig in the park.” Playing 4 sets of music to a rotating crowd of passers-by and dedicated listeners, the band continued its tradition of providing high-quality music to the local community.

A Program with “Something for Everyone”

Under the direction of guest MD Craig Patterson, whose return to the baton felt like old times, the band delivered a sweeping repertoire. The program bridged the gap between traditional brass band classics and contemporary favorites.

Having 4 sets to play allows Hitchin Band to showcase the incredible versatility of the modern brass band, moving seamlessly between formal traditions and contemporary flair. From the rhythmic drive of Latin hits like Havana and Peanut Vendor to the sophisticated swing of Big Band standards like Skyliner, the repertoire offers a high-energy journey through various genres. Each set was anchored by cinematic grandeur, featuring sweeping arrangements from The Lion King and Pirates of the Caribbean, while also paying homage to the stage with iconic selections from Les Misérables and Mary Poppins.

Beyond the large-ensemble works, we were able to showcase the technical prowess and lyrical beauty of individual instruments through a series of evocative solos. From the soulful resonance of the euphonium in Carrickfergus, the playful novelty of a bass trombone on Mah Na Ma Nah, or the smooth, romantic delivery of the flugelhorn in I’ve Got You Under My Skin, the program balanced spectacle with intimacy. By blending traditional folk melodies like Men of Harlech with quirky television themes and light classical favorites like the Second Waltz, these selections ensured a dynamic performance that appealed to both the casual listener and the seasoned enthusiast.

A massive well done goes to our featured soloists: David Quinlan (Soprano Cornet), Dinah Birch (Cornet), Sarah Gibbons (Tenor Horn), Nigel Allery (Bass Trombone), Aqua Moye (Euphonium) and Alice Bailey (Flugel Horn), all of whom helped bring “The Hitchin Way” to life for the Bank Holiday crowds.

A Bittersweet Farewell

The day was marked by a poignant milestone as the band said a special thank you and farewell to our principal euphonium, Aqua Moye.

Aqua’s journey with the band began in 2009 as one of the founding members of our youth program. Rising through the ranks to become a senior player, she concluded her loyal service with a hauntingly beautiful performance of “Carrickfergus.” While we are sad to see her go as she focuses on her career, we wish her every success and thank her for her years of dedication.

Looking Ahead

This performance marks the start of a packed 2026 schedule. As we look forward to sharing our music with communities across the region, be sure to catch our upcoming local events:

  • Wallace & Gromit Film Music: Letchworth Cinema
  • Big Band & Swing Music: Hitchin Town Hall
  • The Snowman: Our annual sell-out performances in Hitchin, Letchworth and Bedford

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We never take our public for granted and are deeply grateful for the continued community support that allows us to keep the brass band tradition alive in Hertfordshire.