Helen Kemp plays alto sax in the Band. She has been a member since 2009, and is the leader of the section.
” When I turned 40 I made a bucket list of 3 things I wanted to achieve that year: having a big party, running the London Marathon and starting to play the sax. I have been playing for 11 years now.
“My teacher recommended that I joined a band to gain a wider experience of playing with others. I found WCB through a Google search and saw on their website that they were holding an open day for new members. I went along and have never looked back!
“That was 10 years ago. I had only been playing for 9 months so was pretty rubbish and had real trouble following the music. I remember everyone was so welcoming and accommodating, and really encouraged me to progress further. I really value the friendships I have made and family atmosphere of the Band – it is so supportive.
“I also play the guitar and piano. Guitar was my first instrument. I taught myself at the age of 14. But saxophone is my favourite instrument (any variety of sax) because it sounds so mellow and sexy. In my opinion it is one of the most versatile instruments as it can be played in a jazz or classical style. Although I don’t really have a favourite Band piece, I love all the Big Band swing pieces.
“6 years ago I and 3 other saxophone players formed ‘The Saxations’, a sax quartet. We regularly meet to rehearse and play at gigs and functions in and around the area.”
Outside the Band, Helen runs her own accountancy, bookkeeping and payroll practice. She spends as much time as she can spare on her music, usually practising for an hour or so every day. In 2015 she passed her Grade 8 saxophone with distinction.
