The Boarshurst Band will be undertaking a special Whit Friday Challenge this year as they look to help raise funds for the 11 individual villages that host a contest on the Saddleworth circuit.
MD James Garlick told 4BR: "We were saddened to here that some of the villages were struggling to find the money to run their events and offer prize money. This seemed a great way after our success of our innovative 'Jingle Bells Challenge' to help raise some funds for those contests.
Thousands of musicians will descend on Saddleworth in the 14th June, so we hope they will dig deep into their pockets and help the Saddleworth Area keep this amazing tradition going for many years to come."
High costs
James told 4BR that he was informed that the costs associated with running the famous contests has increased dramatically in the past few years, with the Greenfield contest alone reportedly costing around £9,000 to stage.
He added: "This event has taken place every year for over 100 years with 119 brass bands taking part last year — coming from all around the world.
There are 11 contests in total and the total prize money from them is £31,580 — money that is a huge benefit and lifeline to competitors. All that and its free!"
All you have to do
For the Whit Friday Challenge all you have to do is post a video of you, your band, ensemble or group playing a march of your choice.
James said: "The video can be an old or new production and you have to do is share your post far and wide, challenge 3 of your friends and please, please donate at least £5 to the Whit Friday Challenge GoFundMe page (don't forget to share the link to those that you challenge).
Let's show everyone what we can do when we work together: All donations will be spread equally amongst the 11 Saddleworth Contests!"
There are 11 contests in total and the total prize money from them is £31,580 — money that is a huge benefit and lifeline to competitors. All that and its free!James Garlick, MD, Boarshurst Band
Find out more
To find out more go to: GoFundMe page:
