*
banner

135 years of music making ends in Musselburgh

A band with a wonderful community connection spanning generations has reached its final chord.

Instruments
  The band has been part of its community for 135 years

The Scottish Brass Band Association has been informed of the demise of Musselburgh and Fisherrow Trades Band from East Lothian.

Known locally as 'The Toun Band' they have reluctantly has had to close its doors after 135 years of existence — literally so after its local council decided to mothball the Town Hall where the band rehearsed.

Community

The non-contesting band boasted a rich history, often noted for its strong community ties, participating in local traditions and even enlisting as a battalion band for the Royal Scots Regiment.

Its roots were deeply embedded in the local identity of Musselburgh, remaining a vital part of Musselburgh's ceremonial life, leading parades for events such as the Riding of the Marches, a tradition it upheld for decades.

Call it a day

Following the news, Band Treasurer Jim Watson told SBBA: "Unfortunately, after 135 years, due to lack of numbers and the local council mothballing the Town Hall where we practised, the remaining members have decided to call it a day and disband.

We would like to thank SBBA for its help over the years."

Become a supporter and help make our future secure.

4barsrest continues to be a proudly independent voice. There are no paywalls to overcome to be able to enjoy what we do to keep our journalism at the heart of the brass banding world. Support us with a one-off donation or subscribe from just £2.50 per month.

Support us    


Yorkshire

Yorkshire Committee issues Third Section statement

March 8 • The Yorkshire Regional Championship Committee has clarified the reason behind the delay in the announcement of the Third Section results in Huddersfield.


Market Rasen

Results: 2026 Midlands Regional Championships

March 7 • Area title success for GUS, Rushden Town, Market Rasen and Cubbington Silver Band in Bedworth.


Perth

Results: 2026 Scottish Championships

March 7 • Whitburn claim the domestic honours as Kirkintilloch Kelvin, Johnstone, Selkirk Silver and Bon-Accord B take section titles in Perth.


South Yorkshire Police

Report & Results: 2026 Yorkshire Regional Championships

March 7 • Area title success for Hepworth, South Yorkshire Police, Hatfield & Askern Colliery, Drighlington and Queensbury Music Centre on a weekend of memorable individual and collective excellence.


Regent Hall Concerts - London Central Fellowship Band

Saturday 7 March • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Regent Hall Band of the Salvation Army

Tuesday 10 March • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Queen Victorias Consort

Friday 13 March • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Slide Effect Trombone Quartet

Friday 20 March • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London. . W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Welsh Guards Band Septet

Friday 20 March • Regent Hall. (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Rushden Town Band

March 8 • 2nd Trombone for Midlands Area First Section Champions 2026.


Glossop Old Band

March 7 • Our friendly second section band are looking for a principal cornet player to join us for contests, concerts and exciting new projects. Glossop Old Band is situated between Manchester and Sheffield and rich in history.


Waltham St. Lawrence Silver Band

March 6 • Our non-contesting community band, based near Maidenhead, Bracknell and Reading, seeks:. . Solo Euphonium . 1st Horn . 2nd Baritone .


David A. Stowell


Conductor and composer


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd