WEST WYCOMBE BRASS BAND
A Village Band in Buckinghamshire
West Wycombe Brass Band was established in 1871 by a group of hand bell ringers and is one of the few bands in the country to own its own Band Hall. The band is based in the picturesque National Trust village of West Wycombe in Buckinghamshire.
We are a friendly group of people who give up our time to perform for the enjoyment of others as well as ourselves and always welcome new members (regardless of ability).
We're currently looking for solo cornets (x2), a flugel horn and a second baritone. So if you want to return to playing, find out more here.
We'll announce 2024 dates soon!
HISTORY
Our Roots
West Wycombe Brass Band was formed on Saturday 23rd September 1871 by a group of hand bell ringers and has been in continual existence ever since.
The Band Hall, a Grade II listed building, was originally built as a Congregational Chapel but was also used as a Church School. In 1953, the building was bought by members of the West Wycombe Brass Band and is now used for our weekly practice sessions. Being an old building, the Band Hall has needed various types of maintenance over the years. Most of the work has been done and funded by the West Wycombe Brass Band members, but the band has also received some grants to help with the upkeep.
In the mid-1960s, the band started contesting. Douglas Bird joined as Musical Director in 1971 and led the band to Fourth Section National Finals Winners at Hammersmith Town Hall in 1974. The band no longer contests, but puts on several performances locally throughout the year.
REHEARSALS
Behind the Scenes
We rehearse in the Band Hall every Wednesday from 7.45pm to 9.45pm.
New players are always welcome (regardless of ability) whether currently playing or wishing to return after a break. We also have some instruments available should you need to borrow one.
The Band Hall is situated behind the High Street in West Wycombe village. It is a little hidden away, so if you fancy coming along to a rehearsal, contact our Band Secretary for further details and directions.
JOIN US!
Vacancies at our Band
We're currently looking for new players to join our friendly band. We're particularly looking for 2 solo cornets, a flugel horn, a second baritone and a percussionist, but we're happy for any player to join us. Don't worry if you don't have your own instrument as we have instruments to borrow.
If you fancy joining us, either contact our Secretary here or join us at one of our rehearsals
MUSICAL DIRECTOR
Giving Direction to the Band
We are currently conducted by Ian Graves. Ian is an experienced conductor who was previously Principal Cornet in the Band of The Life Guards and has played at many ceremonial events, including Trooping the Colour.
MUSICAL NOTES
Stories from the Band
February 2023:
February has been a busy month for the band. You may not know, but in 1974, the band were winners of the 4th Section National Brass Band Championships. Gerry Whitlow, who played in the winning band, has very kindly put together this video for you to watch. It also contains many photographs from that time. Watch and enjoy!
We have also been shopping and bought a nearly new EEb bass from Band Supplies in Leeds for our new bass player.
March 2022:
On Saturday 26th March 2022, West Wycombe Band played at West Wycombe Park's Fundraising Event for Ukraine. We had a lovely afternoon playing a variety of music, from traditional brass band marches to pop songs. The weather was lovely and the event raised more than £16,000 for The British Red Cross Ukraine Crisis Appeal! We would like to thank Sir Edward & Lady Dashwood for inviting us to play.
September 2021:
We've just celebrated our 150th birthday! The band was formed on 27th September 1871 and is still going strong. The Bucks Free Press has written an interesting article about our history to celebrate our anniversary. The article can be found here.
GALLERY
Our Band Through Time
The gallery shows images of the band from over the years. We've been in existence since 1871, so there should be plenty of photos!
CONTACT US
If you would like to join West Wycombe Brass Band or book the band for an engagement, please contact our Secretary Marilyn using the details below.
01494 481589
