Blackpool Brass will celebrate its 60th anniversary later this year.
The band from the famous North West seaside town started life in November 1966 when ten musicians met in a local pub with no instruments, no music and no stands, but armed with determination and ambition.
That soon saw them fund raising around the local streets, and within six months they shared a concert stage with National Champion CWS Manchester Band under the baton of Alex Mortimer.
Opportunity Knocks
Hailing from a town well known for its showbiz stars the band appeared on the talent show 'Opportunity Knocks' as well as performing at the iconic Tower and Empress Ballrooms.
Although they had to wait until 1978 for their first North West Area win in the Fourth Section, they soon rose to the Second Section and became a well-respected contesting outfit.
They also claimed a Gold Medal at the World Music Contest in Kerkrade in 2005 and enjoyed memorable concert tours and festival appearances in Malta, Spain and Germany.
Recent revival
Despite a few ups and downs in recent times following Covid-19, the band rallied and in January 2025 began a fine revival. Membership continues to grow, and they are now knocking on the door of promotion back to the Second Section under MD, John North.
A special anniversary concert will take place on Saturday 21st November with a warm invitation given to all former players, supporters and friends to come along.
Conductors, supporters, players past and present all agree that Blackpool Brass has always been about far more than competitions and concertsBlackpool Brass
Far more
A spokesperson told 4BR: "Conductors, supporters, players past and present all agree that Blackpool Brass has always been about far more than competitions and concerts.
Its greatest strength has been its welcoming atmosphere, enduring friendships and determination to keep live brass band music alive at the heart of the community, so this special concert is not simply a celebration of the band's remarkable past, it's also a celebration of its exciting future."
To find out more go to: https://www.facebook.com/blackpoolbrass
