It has been confirmed by owners IBB Media that after 135 years and over 6140 issues, that the British Bandsman magazine will cease publication on 9th June.

Founded by Samuel Cope and first published in September 1887 as 'The British Bandsman: For Bandmasters and Members of Military and Brass Bands', in 2014 it was recognised by the Guinness Book of Records as the world's oldest weekly music magazine.

Initially published monthly under the stewardship of editor James Waterson, it became a weekly offering in 1902.

'The Bandsman' as it became known, remained as such, with only occasional enforced breaks due to the 1926 General Strike and a short move to become a fortnightly publication in the mid-1970s, until October 2016.

Famous editors have included the likes of Samuel Cope, Herbert Whitely, Eric Ball, Geoffrey Brand and Peter Wilson.

Heyday

In its heyday it became essential reading to thousands of amateur as well as professional players, conductors and banding supporters, bringing news, views and strong opinions about a movement it ardently supported.

The first issue brought a short report and result of the 35th British Open Championships in Manchester, whilst in 1913 it pioneered the commissioning of the first bespoke 'test-piece' in 'Labour & Love' by Percy Fletcher.

However, in recent years it has passed through various owners and faced increased competition from the emergence of the monthly Brass Band World magazine and the website 4barsrest.com, as well as a decline in readership.

Monthly issues were published until September 2018 when it became an on-line offering following purchase by IBB Media Ltd.

Reduced revenues

In a statement published on its Facebook page, IBB Media Managing Director, Martin Gernon said: "A drop-off in our readership during COVID and a general, but understandable, unwillingness to commit to advertising spend by commercial advertisers has reduced revenues.

As a company, we have huge commercial projects confirmed and underway now, and the time and capital investment needed to continue this magazine for a negligible return does not make any commercial sense anymore."

He added: "It has been an honour to carry the baton of the world's longest running music magazine but all things eventually run their course. We are looking at ways to get the hugely invaluable archive made into a public resource as it charts the history of UK and world banding since 1887.

We shall, of course, refund any partial subscriptions on a pro rata basis."

Refunds

It was stated that subscribers who require a refund should contact: info@britishbandsman.com