Bilton Silver (Rugby) Band has announced a new musical venture that will make its debut appearance at the forthcoming Midlands Regional Championships.

The Bilton Silver (Evolution) Band will compete in the Fourth Section under the baton of MD Jack Fisher (above), with the long term aim of providing a steady stream of emerging talent that can eventually progress through to the Championship Section senior band of the organisation.

New initiative

Formed in 1893, Bilton's musical mission has been to serve its community in Rugby, Warwickshire, and in recent years this has seen the development of a highly successful Training Band comprising 80 young people and adult learners.

The new initiative now adds an additional progressive step to that structure, led by MD Jack Fisher, who joined the Training Band when aged just 5, and who eventually progressed to the senior band where he is currently principal percussionist.

Jack was also principal percussionist of the National Children's Brass Band of Great Britain and the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain over several years.

I believe the Evolution Band will contribute to the rich heritage and success of Bilton Silver for many years to come — starting with our debuts at the Midlands Regional contest this weekendJack Fisher

Harness emerging talent

He told 4BR: "The Evolution Band has been formed to harness the emerging talent that we have in our current Training Band and to provide a foundation for progression into the main band.

We hope to further develop playing ability and skills whilst maintaining an enjoyable approach to music-making for our players of all ages. I'm very excited about the forthcoming months and directing the band through competitions and concerts.

He added: "I believe the Evolution Band will contribute to the rich heritage and success of Bilton Silver for many years to come — starting with our debuts at the Midlands Regional contest this weekend."