From humble beginnings back in the 1870s as Jack Guy’s Skipton Mission Band, and after plenty of difficulties over the years, a rejuvenated Skipton Brass is now looking forward to a rosy future.

Fruit

In the early 1980s the band was playing at Championship Section level, but following a collapse in player numbers in the early part of the Millennium they decided to make plans for a long term recovery – and that hard work is now starting to bear fruit.

The appointment of MD Adrian Lowes last year has brought a return of confidence, enthusiasm and players back to the new rehearsal facility at Aireville School in Skipton, whilst following a proactive media campaign the band has once again become a major musical focal point of the area.

I’m very privileged to be working with such a team of enthusiastic players and a forward looking committee. We now have big plans for developing brass music in Skipton and the surrounding areasMD ,Adrian Lowes

Big plans

Adrian told 4BR: "I’m very privileged to be working with such a team of enthusiastic players and a forward looking committee. We now have big plans for developing brass music in Skipton and the surrounding areas."

He added: "Those plans have seen the start of a partnership with the local school music department, which will help safeguard our future and increase interest amongst the young people of the town in our exciting and fulfilling musical tradition."

Darlington return

The band now hopes to return to competition too for the first time in 12 years, and has pencilled in the North of England Area contest in Darlington next year as their target.