The next generation of young players that will hopefully make their way through to the ranks of Tredegar Band have been given a boost to their ambitions after gaining financial support from the local Town Council.

The Welsh band has recently set up a new learner class linked to primary schools in their area, with the hope that it will kick-start a regular flow of musical talent that will be inspired to enjoy brass band music making.

Pioneer

Tredegar was a pioneer of youth band development in the late 1960s, with the Tredegar Junior Band becoming British Champions in 1974 and again in 1975, whilst a following generation went on to become European Youth Champion.

Youngsters who learnt to play with these bands included Robert and Nicholas Childs as well Nigel Weeks — all going onto become highly successful players and conductors, whilst many bands in south Wales and beyond still contain players who first came to pick up an instrument through the band room doors.

Tredegar was a pioneer of youth band development in the late 1960s, with the Tredegar Junior Band becoming British Champions in 1974 and again in 1975, whilst a following generation went on to become European Youth Champion4BR

Time to do it

Chairman Alwyn Powell told 4BR: "It's always been an ambition as an organisation to once again offer musical opportunities to people of all ages and abilities, and with significant challenges for local authorities in providing peripatetic services we felt now was the time to do it."

He added: "Our community band, aimed at adults who wish to carry on enjoying playing already meets once a week and now a foundation step has been put in place to inspire the youngsters in our local community thanks to the support of the Town Council."

Thrilled

Community Band organiser Julie Rooke told 4BR: "Having come through the old Junior band ranks myself, I'm thrilled that we can now offer the chance for a new generation to be part of a great musical organisation."