History
The band was formed in 1998 when woodwind were invited into the Blackwell Brass Band to encourage further growth. Since these humble beginnings it has gone on to reach its current strength of around 70 players.
There are a wide range of players in the band of varying experience and calibre. The repertoire includes marches, jazz, calypso, blues, pop, rock, film scores and more.
Each year the band performs at local parks, garden centres, and boating as well as beer festivals. The band have raised to date over £15,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support, as well as helping other charities such as Royal British Legion on a regular basis.
Recordings
The band has also professionally recorded its own CD. Heroes Near and Far was recorded on 7th and 8th May 2022 at Routh Hall, Bromsgrove School.
Our Conductor - Jack Martin
Jack is our very inspirational, educational and also patient conductor and musical director.
During performances, in addition to sharing details of the pieces we are playing, he will regularly share his favourite jokes with the audiences!
His previous conducting experiences include forming Cleobury Mortimer Concert Brass Training Band, a musical Director of West Mercia police Youth Band and being Deputy Conductor for Cleobury Mortimer Concert Brass.
Jack played Cornet from age 8 with Bell Inn Brass Band in Cleobury Mortimer. He progressed to principal Cornet at Cleobury Mortimer Brass and principal Trumpet with National Schools Symphony Orchestra. He appeared in ITVs This Morning playing Soprano Cornet with Fulham Brass Band. His love of competitive playing led him to join the Championship Section of Langley Band playing the Flugelhorn.
Training Band
We run a training band for children and adult beginners. The standard is around grades 0 to 3.
The band has recently played on a float at Bromsgrove Carnival, in the sun at the Wizzafest Family Fun Day, at Rubery Festival and on the bandstand alongside the senior band.
The band has been together for nine years and is conducted by Jules Jagger, one of our alto saxophone players.