Celebrating Excellence: Annual Awards Presented at Joint Concert
- Lewis Catto
- May 19
- 3 min read
Granite City Brass and Community Band were delighted to present this year’s annual awards during a special joint concert at St James’ Church in Stonehaven on Saturday 18th May.
The concert was a great success, showcasing the musical talents of both bands and drawing a supportive audience from the local community. One of the evening’s highlights was the presentation of the band’s four major annual awards—recognising outstanding contributions to both the musical and day-to-day life of the bands.
These awards have become a cherished tradition since their introduction in 2014, when the band established a set of trophies to recognise players who consistently go above and beyond. Prior to that, the band already held the Stewart Watson Cup, a generous donation from Stewart’s family following his passing. The Watson family presented a cup to each of the bands Stewart had been closely involved with during his life—Granite City Brass, Bon-Accord Silver Band, and Aberdeen City Youth Brass Band—in recognition of his lasting legacy in brass music across the city. A hugely influential brass educator and mentor, Stewart was often affectionately referred to as the "Man o’ Brass", a title well-earned through decades of dedication to the development of young players and the wider banding community in Aberdeen.
The three additional awards were named in honour of three pivotal figures in the band’s modern history: Neil Ferguson, Stewart Gilmour, and Colin Reid—each of whom played significant roles in the development and success of the band during the 1990s and early 2000s.
Each year, both Granite City Brass and the Community Band present two awards—one voted for by band members, and one selected by the conductor (proof, as we like to say, that democracy still thrives in brass banding). The awards are typically presented either at a spring concert or at the band’s AGM, and this year we were proud to hand out all four at the concert in Stonehaven.
The presentations were made by Band President John Benzie, who was warmly welcomed by both bands and the audience.
🏆 2024/25 Award Winners
🎺 Community Band — Musician of the Year - Colin Reid Award
Chosen by Community Band conductor Pixie (currently away on a conducting course), this award is presented to a player who has demonstrated exceptional musical ability, dedication, and real potential. Winner: Nathan Chesney
🎼 Community Band — Bandsperson of the Year - Stewart Watson Cup
Voted for by members of the Community Band, this award goes to someone who consistently goes the extra mile—setting up, transporting equipment, and stepping in wherever needed.
Winner: Ben Williams, recognised for his tireless efforts, willingness to help, and ability to play whatever’s needed—even conducting when required!
🥁 Granite City Brass — Bandsperson of the Year - Neil Ferguson Award
Voted for by the players of Granite City Brass, this award recognises someone who goes above and beyond. This year’s winner makes the journey down from Turriff for rehearsals twice a week—a level of commitment that certainly doesn’t go unnoticed. Winner: Andy Paterson
🎷 Granite City Brass — Musician of the Year - Stewart Gilmour Award
Selected by Bruce Wallace (who led the band as Musical Director until March), this year’s recipient is a relatively new member who has made a major impact on her section and the overall dynamic of the band. Known for her consistency, reliability, and resilience in facing the… shall we say, idiosyncratic tuning of the baritone. Winner: Eilidh Brian
A huge congratulations to all of this year’s winners—and a sincere thank you to every player, volunteer, and supporter who helps make Granite City Brass and Community Band such vibrant and valued parts of the North East music scene.
Keep an eye on our website and social media channels for updates on our upcoming summer events.
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