On this page we feature a member of the band. This time Allan Cook answers our questions.
Q. What is your full name, age and what instrument do you play?
Allan Cook, 67 years and I play Euphonium.
Q. If retired, what did you do for a living? If not retired, what do you currently do for a job?
Retired Police Superintendent.
Q. Do you have a favourite sport, hobby or pastime? If so what is it?
Dare I say supporting Ipswich Town FC?!! Through the good and bad times over nearly fifty years.
Q. How long have you been involved with The Salvation Army?
Since 1948.
Q. How long have you been playing in a Salvation Army Band?
Commissioned in Chelmsford Citadel Band in 1956 - played regularly until 1960 - then a big gap until about five years ago when I played in a small SA Fellowship Band in Colchester.
Q. What do you enjoy most about Salvation Army Banding?
The purpose, the type of music and the strength of the fellowship.
Q. How long have you been a member of the Anglia Fellowship Band?
For about five months.
Q. Do you have a favourite piece of brass band music? If so what is it?
Resurgam by Eric Ball.
Q. Do you enjoy any other styles of music? Do you have a favourite piece of music?
I also play with the Ipswich Over 50's Band. I was a founder member of the Essex Police Band and played solo cornet with them for a number of years. I have a fairly eclectic taste for most types of music but would fall at the first hurdle on questions about the pop genre - ancient and modern!
Q. Do you think there is still a role for Salvation Army bands in today’s world and how do you like to see bands used?
Most certainly, yes. I have been encouraged to see the association strengthened between SA bands and the brass band world in general - giving the opportunity to show what the Salvation Army is about and what it stands for.
Q. If you were asked to highlight three things that the Salvation Army Band offers to young people, what would they be?
1. The opportunity to become involved in playing music as an extension of their faith.
2. The ability to mix with like minded individuals of similar age and interests.
3. A first class basis to learn and receive instruction from experienced musicians.
Our thanks to Allan for answering the questions this time. Remember to come back here to see how other band members answer.
