In spite of financial pressures leading to many local government providers cutting back on their support for brass bands, there is great news that one small town council in Shirebrook in Derbyshire is investing in community music making — and with brass bands in particular.

Investing in brass

The council, which comes within the statutory boundaries of Bolsover District Council and Derbyshire County Council, has announced that not only are they launching ‘Brass in the Park’ — a series of traditional Sunday afternoon bandstand concerts, but they are also launching a ‘Brass Festival’ featuring Grimethorpe Colliery Band, and hosting a generously funded March & Hymn Tune contest too.

Sunday afternoon concerts

The traditional Sunday afternoon concerts will feature a number of local area bands at Shirebrook Town Park, starting on June 21st, whilst the Brass Festival will take place on the weekend of 11th/12th July.

Grimethorpe and March & Hymn Tune contest

The Saturday will see Brass in Concert champions, Grimethorpe Colliery Band in concert action at Shirebrook Leisure Centre, whilst the Sunday will see a brand new March & Hymn Tune Contest take place at Shirebrook Market Place starting at midday.

With a £750 first prize, £400 and £200 for podium finishers and prizes for ‘Best March, Best Hymn Tune, deportment and section awards it is sure to attract a host of competitors.

there is great news that one small town council in Shirebrook in Derbyshire is investing in community music making — and with brass bands in particular4BR

Bandstand concerts:
2.00pm start

21st June: Shirebrook Miners Welfare Unison Band
5th July: Bestwood Welfare Black Diamonds Band
19th July: Dinnington Colliery Band
2nd August: Pleasley Miners Welfare Band
16th August: Thurcroft Welfare Band
30th August: Unite the Union Band ‘Brass Explosion-Firework Finale’
(commencing at 7.30pm)

Grimethorpe Colliery Band in Concert:
Shirebrook Lesiure Centre — 7.30pm
11th July:

Tickets £12 and £10 concessions are available from Shirebrook Leisure Centre on 01623 748313 or Shirebrook Town Council offices on 01623 742475.

Shirebrook March & Hymn Tune Contest:
Shirebrook Market Place — 12 noon start

Brass Band March & Hymn Tune Contest open to bands from any section.

Entry fee for bands is £30. Band Entry forms available by emailing events@shirebrooktowncouncil.gov.uk

Tel: 01623 742475