Stourport-on-Severn Brass Band History

The band originally developed out of the Stourport High School Band and was set up as Stourport Youth Band under the leadership of George Jackson in 1969. Eventually, as the age of the members increased and the loyalties to the band were maintained the word 'youth' was dropped from the title. The band now has players from the age of fifteen and upwards and still includes some of the founder members. In 1981 George Jackson retired and was replaced by Colin Farlow, one of the Worcestershire county brass teaching staff. Colin stayed with the band for fourteen years and during this period took the band into the Second section in 1995, having won the third section qualifiers in 1985 and qualifying again for the National Finals in 1991.

Colin stood down in 1995 to concentrate on his county teaching commitments and Stourport Band's youth band, the North Worcestershire Youth Brass Band, formally know as the Mitton Band after Stourport's twin town. This band aims to develop the playing skills of younger musicians in the area whilst maintaining links between the county music service and Stourport Band. Colin was made the band President and his wife Christine, who also played with the band for many years, was made Vice President in appreciation for the years they dovoted to the band. Colin's position was filled by David Bishop-Rowe, a well known musician in the West Midlands who was our conductor until March 1999. The band returned to the Third Section in 1997 where we have built on the contesting experience gained over the last few years. We gained 3rd prize at the Midlands Regional Qualifying Contest in March 1999 narrowly missing entry to the National Finals. However, this puts us in a good position in the near future of regaining our status in the 2nd Section. 1999 promises to be a good year for the band as after our good Midlands qualifying result we have now secured the services of a well known local Musical Director, David Maplestone. David has conducted many Championship standard bands and is himself a successful cornet player - we are fortunate to have secured David's services and look forward to more success! In May 1999 we will be playing at the stage version of "Brassed Off" at the Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton. As well as our contesting commitments the band also has a busy schedule of other jobs. Annually these include the very successful Pershore Midsummer Brass festival, the Music For You concerts held at Kidderminster Town Hall and the Severn Valley Railway for its Santa Special grotto at Christmas, as well as numerous other concerts and events. The band has a very friendly atmosphere and is always keen to welcome new players of a good standard. In fact groups from within the band can often be found socialising together, even when there isn't the excuse of a band job! If you would like more information about our rehearsals or how to book the band please contact our Band Secretary Helen Fishbourne.

Page updated 31st March 1999

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