The Frickley South Elmsall Band is to reform in May after overcoming the threat of closing its bandroom doors for good.
The Yorkshire band has been in existence since 1969, working hard in the lower sections and being led for the first 20 years by Brian Till.
It reached the heights of its contesting profile in 2011 under the baton of David Nichols, when they were promoted to the First Section.
Loyal core
However, in the past few years the band had struggled to attract players and was only held together by the commitment and dedication of a loyal core of stalwarts such as Band Secretary Tracy Keith.
With occasional contest successes and concerts the band seemed able to prosper, but unfortunately after being without a permanent conductor for some time, and with no rehearsals being held during December, the decision was made not to compete at the 2018 Yorkshire Regional Championships.
Rallying cry
However, rallying cry at the annual general meeting saw a sense of determination return once more, with the decision made to reform as a non-contesting band in a bid to attract local players looking to enjoy brass band music making without the complications and pressures of contesting.
We aim to rehearse once a week in our own band room and have fun and enjoy making music together, so any players are welcome at any time to come down for a blowspokesperson
Thrilled
A spokesperson told 4BR: "We are thrilled that there has been such a show of pride to keep the band going. We are delighted that Kyle Blake will be leading us once more down this new path and our first rehearsal will be on Tuesday 1st May (7.30pm)."
They added: "We aim to rehearse once a week in our own band room and have fun and enjoy making music together, so any players are welcome at any time to come down for a blow; beginners, ex-players, superstars, registered or non-registered. If you play and are free on a Tuesday evening, then we want to see you!"
Find out more
To find out more information and to see if you can help go to www.fsebrass.co.uk
