Training Band is the ideal group for younger players or those who are building up their skills. Some people choose to play their second instrument in order to gain valuable performing experience. Previous band experience is not necessary as long as you can play your instrument and are keen to play.

Concert Band plays more advanced music which is usually of Grade 4+ standard. Again, this group welcomes young and not so young players who are ready to play interesting and enjoyable music. Previous band experience is not necessary although many of our members also play in other musical groups. Don't worry if your playing's a bit rusty, we'll soon have you back to your best.

Although the band is very successful, we could particularly do with extra players in the following areas:

Trombone, French Horn.

If you play any of the above instruments you could be just who we're looking for!
Please get in touch even if you don't play one of these - new players on all instruments at any level are always welcome.

If you are learning to play then maybe you would benefit from playing in our Training Band. We play a wide range of music which will improve your knowledge of your instrument and your general musicianship.

If you are a more experienced player then maybe a seat in Concert Band is just what you need to boost your playing confidence, reading ability or just to keep playing.

"Just a quick line to say how much all the family enjoyed Saturday night's concert. A good variety of music and styles - all well played - in an interesting venue. Made for a very pleasant evening out. Thanks to yourself and all those who helped organise it."
From a member of the public following concert given at the East Anglian Railway Museum.

"After looking after my young family all week, it's a welcome break, and nice to do something for me"

"It's a great way to start the weekend"

"It's nice to come somewhere where the music is ever-changing"

"The music is pitched to all levels - some pieces are challenging, but it's good to play straightforward pieces too"

"It's an inexpensive group for children to attend and they have fun and learn at the same time"

"It's really helpful to play in a band rather than just individual practise"

"It's great to find a band that will welcome people of all ages and abilities"

"Many of my friends are at band - old friends who I've brought along and new friends who I've met there"

"If you used to play an instrument when you were younger, it's a great opportunity to get playing again"

We rehearse in Heathlands School, New Church Road, West Bergholt, near Colchester, every Friday during term time. The rehearsals are broken up into two groups - Training Band and Concert Band, both including woodwind, brass and percussion players of all ages. You can join either or both bands… a number of the band play in both groups, some taking the opportunity to pick up a second instrument in Training Band.

6.00-7.00pm - Training Band:
Training Band focuses on music for players up to about Grade 4 standard. We don't actually offer any tuition, but instead select music that will help players to develop whilst not feeling too pressured. Although we start at 6pm, we do realise that band members may need to arrive slightly later. Training Band plays arrangements of popular songs, from Disney classics to Colonel Bogey, and from 60's hits to modern pop.

7.00-9.00pm - Concert Band:
Concert Band plays a wide range of music for players above Grade 4 standard. Some pieces are deliberately chosen to challenge all players while other more straightforward pieces provide some light relief! Our repertoire includes medleys from musicals, film themes, big band hits, classical pieces, and pieces featuring band sections. Selected band players are sometimes given the opportunity to shine in solo pieces. The rehearsal includes a short drinks break at about 8.00pm.

Fees
Subs are: £8 a term for Training Band, £16 a term for Concert Band. If you play in both bands, you just pay the £16.
It is possible to pay nightly in which case its £1 for Training Band and £2 for Concert Band. Playing in both bands will only cost £2 for the evening.

Rehearsal Dates
Rehearsal dates broadly follow the term times as follows:

2010

Rehearsals start Friday 8th January

Spring 2010
* Friday 8th Jan - Friday 12th Feb : all at Heathlands School
* Friday 19th Feb : provisional half-term rehearsal in Bergholt Church
* Friday 26th Feb : Friday 26th Mar : all at Heathlands School

Summer 2010
* Friday 16th Apr : provisional Easter rehearsal in Bergholt Church
* Friday 23rd Apr - Friday 28th May : all at Heathlands School
* Friday 11th Jun - Friday 9th July : all at Heathlands School

Autumn 2010
* Friday 3rd September - Friday 22nd October
* Friday 5th November - Friday 3rd December
* Friday 10th December : rehearsal in West Bergholt Church

Spring 2011
* Friday 7th Jan - Friday 18th Feb : all at Heathlands School
* Friday 4th Mar : Friday 1st April : all at Heathlands School

Summer 2011
* Friday 29th Apr - Friday 27th May : all at Heathlands School
* Friday 10th Jun - Friday 15th July : all at Heathlands School