The defending National Champion has announced that through the National Lottery Community Fund, its new 'Having a Buzzing time with Foden's' project will help provide people over the age of 50 in their local community gain the opportunity to engage, enjoy and learn new music making skills.

Over the years Foden's has been part of several initiatives aimed at collaborating with various local organisations, including Age UK Cheshire, in projects specifically aimed to help overcome social isolation and loneliness through music making.

This project allows people over the age of 50 to meet on a weekly basis to socialise and enjoy making music under the leadership of Foden's players.

Free sessions

Speaking about the latest initiative, Band Manager Mark Wilkinson said: "The free sessions are open to anyone who wishes to join us irrespective of whether they have played a brass instrument before.

Some members are completely new to playing an instrument and others have substantial experience, but each week it is about coming together and sharing skills, experience and most importantly time."

Some members are completely new to playing an instrument and others have substantial experience, but each week it is about coming together and sharing skills, experience and most importantly timeFoden's

Open doors

He added: "The enthusiasm it generates makes it so much fun to be part of. We are extremely thankful to the National Lottery Community Fund in supporting this initiative and we look forward to opening our doors to as many people as possible."

The project meets each Thursday morning at Foden's rehearsal room. Further information can be found at: info@fodensband.co.uk