Nantwich Concert Band has moved to a new home in the town after striking a chord with players from across South Cheshire.
The growing group is now staging weekly Wednesday rehearsals in the school hall at Highfields Academy, Cumberland Avenue, after out-growing its old base at Brookfield Hall, Shrewbridge Road.
Founded in 1983, the band welcomes woodwind and brass players of all ages.
It regularly plays on Nantwich Town Square and entertains shoppers with a mix of traditional wind band pieces and music from stage and screen.
Players also set toes tapping with spring and summer concerts at the Civic Hall and St Mary’s Church as well as crowd-pullers such as the Nantwich Show and Nantwich Food Festival.
There’s also a wind band for beginners and improvers which includes many parents and children.
Musical director Nick Birch from Sandbach, who also plays with the town’s Foden’s Band, took on the role in 2014 after attaining a Master’s degree from the Royal Northern College of Music.
He said: “I first joined a band when I was seven and have always enjoyed the camaraderie and social side of being part of a team who just love music.
“We’re a growing band and for most of our history we have rehearsed at Brookfield but the school offers space to welcome more people this year well as great acoustics.”
The band welcomes anyone who enjoys making music, from French horn and flute to clarinet and cornet players. Newcomers are encouraged to get in touch.
Highfields headteacher Simon Dyson said: “We are offering our school hall for hire to local groups and are delighted Nantwich Concert Band is the first to call it ‘home’ in 2020.
“Players are very much in harmony as friends and like-minded people who enjoy making music which entertains so many huge crowds throughout the year.”
The band is tuning up for a charity night at Crewe Lyceum Theatre on February 9 when The Cat 107.9FM local radio station presents a night of music and dance to help raise money for the baby bereavement appeal at Leighton Hospital.
To enquire about hiring Highfields’ hall call the school office on 01270 814570 or visit
www.highfieldsacademytrust.co.uk
For more on the band and becoming a member go to Facebook or visit www.nantwichband.co.uk
(Pic above: Highfields Academy headteacher Simon Dyson (centre) with Nantwich Concert Band Musical Director Nick Birch and Wind Band conductor Mel Biggs)
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