The Downton Band has announced that they have been granted 'Associate Provider' status for the county wide music education hub Wiltshire Music Connect.

The band reformed its training band and now runs four brass bands from its band hall in the village of Downton near Salisbury. Over 70 musicians attend weekly rehearsals and tuition whilst the four ensembles perform across the region at a wide variety of events.

Rigorous

Downton had to undertake a rigorous application process to assess their work, particularly in relation to the Training Band and Beginners Brass.

The music education hub evaluated the skills and abilities of their tutors and music leaders, audited DBS checks, insurance policies, professional development policies and child protection training before awarding the 145 year-old band 'Associate Provider' status.

Huge step

Downton Band's Musical Director Paul Williams told 4BR that the decision is a huge step in the organisation's development.

"Becoming an associate of Wiltshire Music Connect recognises the progress we have made but also allows the band to join a large network of music education providers, joining our work with other groups and music teachers across Wiltshire.

This move also gives us an opportunity to help develop our volunteer tutors and we are very excited to start planning a series of training events that will enhance our skills as educators."

We were particularly impressed to hear about the teaching and training the band offers young people on a regular basis, as well as the range of performances they offer all year round, including Christmas Day!Nick Howdle, Leader of Wiltshire Music Connect

Impressed

Meanwhile, Nick Howdle, the Leader of Wiltshire Music Connect added: "We are delighted to welcome Downton Band to our community of music education providers, and especially to be working with them to support new links with schools.

We were particularly impressed to hear about the teaching and training the band offers young people on a regular basis, as well as the range of performances they offer all year round, including Christmas Day!"