The Royal Air Forces Association Concert Band

The 1st officially recognised R.A.F.A.CONCERT BAND was formed in 1998 as a unique partnership with the RAFA, who are the Bands sponsors, to help raise funds for the RAFA Charities.The Band quickly established itself as a fine Concert Band, which is much in demand. All the musicians are volunteers who enjoy making music together. They contribute a significant amount of time to their hobby much to the benefit of the RAFA and other Charities. In it's short history the Band has raised thousands of pounds for RAFA as well as raising monies for other Service and Civilian Charities. Who are the RAFA Concert Band? The Band is a 20 to 30 piece concert Band ( also known as a Wind or Military Band). It normally contains clarinets, flutes, oboe, saxophones, bassoon, french horns, trumpets, euphonium, trombones, bass/tuba and percussion, but can contain almost any wind or brass instruments. Who can join the Band? We are always ready to welcome new members into the Band. There are no particular age or fitness requirements ( we don't march!)and no previous experience with Bands is necessary most players find that joining the Band gives a boost to their musical development. What do you need? Your own instrument Monday nights free to attend rehearsals A reasonable commitment to attend engagements Band Requirements We require all Band members to attend rehearsals on a regular basis and give full support to the band on Concert engagements. There are no fees for membership of the Band.We always welcome new players of any age, with suitable ability, to the main Band Does the Band wear uniform? On Concerts the Band wear dark blue blazers, white pilot shirts with band logo & epaulettes, grey trousers/skirts for the ladies,Band tie & black shoes. How does the Band operate? The Band performs a number of paid engagements throughout the year. The income from these engagements is used to raise money for the ROYAL AIR FORCES ASSOCIATION and to offset the running costs of the Band. What does the Band play? The range of a Concert Band is very broad and can include music from all periods from classical to the modern popular. Typical programmes would include selections from shows. (Rodgers & Hart / Lloyd-Webber); Dance Band music; Waltzes; and modern pieces written specifically for Concert Bands. Want to Know More about Hiring or Membership of the band? Then please contact either; The RAFA Area Director tel/fax 01392 462008 Or The Musical Director email peterskellon@btinternet.com

RAFA CONCERT BAND