Skipton Brass continues on its long road to banding prosperity with an exciting chance to gain a small piece of worldwide publicity.

Musical presence

After playing in the Championship Section in the North of England at the turn of the Millennium, the band endured a period of thirteen years when at times it struggled to maintain a musical presence in the small North Yorkshire town which had been its home since the 1880s.

Tour de France

However, through a great deal of hard work and commitment, they returned in 2013 and have continued to build ever since, and now have the chance to be seen and heard all over the world when the enormous entourage of the Tour de France comes to their picturesque town in July.

The band will perform a full concert programme on Wednesday 2nd July in Addingham as part of the pre-race festivities, but will also open the event on the day of the race.

Television coverage

Band spokesperson Marie Akers, told 4BR: "On Saturday 5th July, the race comes through Skipton, and we have been given an early slot to rouse local people into action and support.

The competitors may only speed past us quickly on their bikes, but the television coverage itself will be huge."

On Saturday 5th July, the race comes through Skipton, and we have been given an early slot to rouse local people into action and supportSkipton Brass

Renaissance

Much of the credit for the recent renaissance has been down to Musical Director, Adrian Lowes, whose enthusiasm and determination has brought the band back to life. Now it is competing again and having great fun doing so.

"This is an exciting time to be part of Skipton Brass," Marie, who plays cornet added. "The band has grown so much in the last two years and the playing standard has improved impressively.

We are realistic, but it’s a real joy to be part of a great community band once more. Who knows what the future holds for us now?"