A new south Wales based concert band will hold its first rehearsal later this month, and is inviting players to join them.

Opportunity

The Veterans Concert Band Wales is aimed at current and former Armed Forces musicians and is based on successful models operating elsewhere in the UK and overseas.

It looks to provide an opportunity to come together, make music and also raise funds for forces charities through concert activities.

Well planned

Speaking to 4BR, spokesman Wayne Loveday said: "The band has been in the planning stages since the Autumn and, with the generous support of a number of individuals and organisations, we're now looking forward to our first rehearsal on Sunday January 17th in Neath Port Talbot".

The band will be conducted there by Craig Roberts, who has worked with a wide variety of concert bands, and also with the military, for over 15 years as Assistant Director of Canada's Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo.

Tremendous response

Craig added: "The response to the band has been tremendous. Over 30 wind, brass and percussion musicians have now signed up for the first rehearsal with an overwhelming response also from composers and arrangers from all over the world giving music to be performed.

Everyone's now really looking forward to the first rehearsal with a further target of a concert for Armed Forces Day in June."

The response to the band has been tremendous. Over 30 wind, brass and percussion musicians have now signed up for the first rehearsalConductor, Craig Roberts

Interested

Anyone interested in further information or joining the rehearsal of Veterans Concert Band Wales can contact the Secretary: bass2bone@gmail.com