A bit of an introduction to the band

Blackwell Wind band was formed at the beginning of 1998, when Blackwell Brass Band dissolved, due to a shortage of brass players. The decision to allow woodwind into the band was made in that year, and since then the band has gone from being a small group of players to its current strength of 25 players.

The band in its current form is a fairly balanced mix of experienced players and those of less experience, but keen and eager to learn. As a genuine community band we are able to welcome all ages and abilities of player. Not only that but we have members from a very diverse range of jobs, from landscape construction to solicitors, from housewives to doctors.

The band has a wide range of instruments, but more are always welcome. We have the favourites: flutes, clarinets and saxophones, and we do have the added bonus of 3 bassoon players, a rarity in a small band. We also have a selection of brass instruments from cornets and trumpets to euphoniums, trombones and various horns.

As a band we play a very wide range of music, as we try to cater for as many tastes in music as possible. It is hoped that this way there will be something of interest for everyone who plays in the band. We have in the repertoire marches, jazz, calypso, blues, pop, rock, film scores and more.

As a band we take on events and usually do 12 a year. We do a wide range of events from steam fairs to village fetes, bandstand jobs to garden centres. As a band we do try to stay mainly in the local area, but will travel a little if required to do an event. In 2005 we negotiated a performing slot at the balloon festival in Bristol, which is a huge event of national standing. The same year we have done events at Evesham steam rally, Castle Bromwich Hall gardens, Bromsgrove bandstand, Burcot fete to name a few.

Further information on our events, and how to find and join us can be found by emailing Vicky the secretary on aunico(at)hotmail.com,