Everyone associated with Macclesfield Youth Brass Band (MYBB) is celebrating today after it was announced that the volunteer led organisation is to be presented with 'The King's Award for Voluntary Service' for 2025.

It is the highest award a local voluntary group can receive in the UK and is regarded as the equivalent to an MBE.

Enriching lives

The organisation has been enriching the lives of young people for 20 years through music tuition, friendships and inspiring performance opportunities, with an emphasis on community and inclusion.

At its heart are a dedicated team of over 40 volunteers, including trustees, parents and many enthusiastic young player helpers, whose year-round commitment ensures MYBB continues to grow and bring life-affirming opportunities to the next generation of children.

Any child

Set up to provide low-cost access to music tuition for all children, reducing barriers wherever possible to allow any child to take part, the registered charity has a youth band, a junior band and a training band which recruits complete beginners, providing tuition and the use of an instrument for just £5 per month.

MYBB has welcomed hundreds of young musicians through its ranks with over 100 young musicians from age 7 to 19 years old currently in their ranks.

Honoured

Speaking about the news, Louise Renshaw, founder Trustee and Chairperson and conductor of MYBB said: "We are extremely honoured to receive this award in recognition of the outstanding work of our volunteers.

Running a youth organisation requires a wide array of skills, knowledge and commitment to ensure best practice across all areas. We have been very fortunate to have parents and young people who are willing to give their time to make MYBB so special. Their contribution to young lives and the local community cannot be underestimated."

This year the band has been celebrating its 20th anniversary. The news that we have received this award really is the icing on the cakeLouise Renshaw

Icing on the cake

Louise added: "This year the band has been celebrating its 20th anniversary with a series of special events including a gala concert at The Royal Northern College of Music and a concert tour to Belgium. The news that we have received this award really is the icing on the cake."

The King's Award for Voluntary Service aims to recognise outstanding work by local volunteer groups to support their communities.

Presentation

Representatives of MYBB will receive the award crystal and certificate from Lady Redmond, Lord-Lieutenant of Cheshire, in the coming months.

In addition, two volunteers from MYBB will attend a Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace next summer, along with other recipients of this year's award.