Just months after being formed, Ebbw Valley Brass will be making its debut appearance at the Welsh Regional Contest in Swansea in just two weeks time.

Boast

Launched in September 2011 the band has given banding a huge boost in a valley that used to boast a number of succesful lower section bands.

Following a successful Christmas concert with Robert and David Childs, the band has continued to grow from a initial core of just 9 players to a position where it can now compete at its first ever contest.

Band Secretary, Dean Woods told 4BR: "Since the launch things have gone from strength to strength and we are well ahead of our initial aims and objectives."

First appearance

The band will be conducted on their first appearance by Nigel Seaman, who has thoroughly enjoyed helping the band in their bid to create a bit of banding history.

Dean continued: "For Ebbw Valley Brass to secure the help of Nigel is another huge boost. We aim to continue our development in line with the objectives of the new Brass Band Forum Wales of getting Welsh band growing from the grass roots up.”

Since the launch things have gone from strength to strength and we are well ahead of our initial aims and objectivesSecretary, Dean Woods

Tred help

The band’s percussion section recently participated in the free workshops with All England Masters Champion Tredegar and Ev-entz percussion.

Dean concluded: "The players benefited greatly from the experience and have successfully transferred the advice and experience they gained into the bandhall."

Life Award

The band's solo horn player Andrew Lewis, was recently awarded Life Membership of the band in recognition of 20 years of dedicated service to the Ebbw Vale Band.

"Andrew is a wonderful talent and a cornerstone of the band," Dean added. "He is a shining example for everyone to follow and the Life Membership is a reward for his immense service.”