Lofthouse 2000 Band has just received a £4,000 grant from the Coalfields Regeneration Trust which will pay for new instruments for its Beginner and Intermediate bands, as well as new IT equipment and workshops within local schools.

Music cafe

Late last year the band embarked on a development project to bring brass music into local schools, with over 1000 children entertained and educated about playing a brass instrument.

The project culminated in the setting up of the innovative Music Cafe, where a new starter group was established.

Now, with this extra funding stream, Musical Director, Andrew Whitaker believes it will help the band to continue their work in teaching and encouraging a new influx of members interested in learning music.

We are extremely grateful to Coalfields Regeneration for giving us this grant which will help us to develop our starter and intermediate bands and continue our work within the communityMD, Andrew Whitaker

Community opportunity

He told 4BR: "Brass bands have always been popular in our area and have always given the community an opportunity to learn music as well as perform.

We are extremely grateful to Coalfields Regeneration for giving us this grant which will help us to develop our starter and intermediate bands and continue our work within the community (awards above)."