Alcester Victoria Silver Band

Since its formation in an Alcester coffee house in 1897, the Band has retained close links with the town, regularly playing at town events, including the Court Leet parade, the Remembrance Concert and the annual Street Market. More recently, through the Twinning Association, the Band has travelled to France and taken part in twinning events in Vallet. It aims to be a relaxed and social band and is proud of its family traditions and the age range of its players, currently ranging from 12 to 70 years. Several current players are descended from past members of the Band, maintaining historic links as illustrated in old town photographs. In 1992, for a period of five years up to its centenary in 1997, the Band played a key part in the popular Alcester Proms, the proceeds of which helped to secure a lottery grant for instruments and uniforms and to provide a secure financial base for the future. In 1999 a Junior or Training Band was formed to encourage youngsters to participate in the Brass Band movement. With tuition and guidance from senior band members, not only have the Junior Band played a supporting role in concerts, they have also carried out engagements in their own right. Several former Junior Band members are now regular members of the senior band. Although the key objective is for members to enjoy music, the competitive spirit is also encouraged. Entries to regional and national contests provide the opportunity to compare with other bands and, on occasions, to return with trophies! The Band is fortunate in having had several very able and dedicated Musical Directors. The present Director is Gordon Hartley-Bennett.  Rehearsals are held every Monday from 8.00 to 10.00 pm at the R.C. Church Hall in Priory Road, Alcester (Training Band from 7.00 to 8.00 pm). New members are always welcome: details can be obtained from Sue Bates, 12 School Road, Great Alne. B49 6HQ or by e-mail to jackbates@toucansurf.com

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