Have you ever watched a brass band and wondered what all the instruments are?
Have you ever wondered about the different sounds each instrument makes?
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to play a brass instrument?
Well now you have the opportunity to find out.
The ever-popular Alford Silver Band will be opening its doors to everyone on Saturday 17th September for that very purpose.
The band will be holding an ‘open day’ in its rehearsal centre in Millers Way, Alford (located on the far side of the Co-Op car park) between 10.00 am and 4.00 pm.
Band members will be there to demonstrate their instruments and to answer any questions. And for those who wish to try one or more instruments there will be the opportunity, with some expert and friendly tuition.
“We are a band with a strong tradition of encouraging people who would like to make music,” said band chairman, Martin Briggs. “We already have a vibrant training programme that takes both absolute beginners and those who can play but who want to progress.
“And they are not all youngsters. Several players have come as absolute beginners in their more mature years and have subsequently become valued members of the main band.”
The band provides expert instruction for just £1 per week, and even loans trainees an instrument.
“The open day is the chance for anyone who has ever thought about playing an instrument, or who started many years ago but then packed up, to come and have a blow and see how they get on,” continued Martin. “It will be a very informal day and everyone will be welcome. Just come along any time between 10.00 and 4.00 to see what we do.”
Alford Silver Band is a very popular community band. None of the players are paid, but the band plays to a very professional standard under the direction of their musical director Richard Walker, himself a virtuoso trombonist. Some of the musicians also play for other bands on a semi-professional basis. And three members of the band who first learned with the training section went on to gain music degrees at university.
The band has a wide repertoire of music and performs at events as well as giving concerts.
Whether you want to try an instrument or just find out a bit more about how this very successful band operates, Saturday 17th September will provide the ideal opportunity.