A school brass band from Bournemouth that has in its history performed in front of The Pope, King Olav of Norway, on television and radio, as well as entertaining AFC Bournemouth football fans, will be celebrating its 60th anniversary in March.
Leading youth bands
The Oakmead School Brass Band was formed in 1959 at the Oakmead School for Boys in West Howe, Bournemouth, by its then Head of Music, Courtney Bosanko.
It went on to become one of the UKs leading school bands winning its class at the 1974 World Music Festival in Kerkrade.
Initially a male only band, girls were welcomed following a school merger with the Oakmead School for Girls in the 1980's.
Unfortunately, the band did not continue when the school became an academy in the 2000's, and so it is now only fondly remembered by an older generation, many of who went on to enjoy successful professional musical careers as well as playing in brass bands around the UK.
Reunion
A reunion is now taking place on the 30th/31st March in Bournemouth.
One of the reunion organisers, John Grinnell told 4BR: "The great thing about brass bands is that they provide an opportunity to continue playing whatever standard, whatever age and where ever someone ends ups.
Strong friendships are formed and competitions and contests are fabulous for meeting up with old acquaintances.
The Oakmead School Brass Band was the reason why a significant number of its players have continued with their passion."
It went on to become one of the UKs leading school bands winning its class at the 1974 World Music Festival in Kerkrade4BR
Opportunity
They added: "It only seemed right to celebrate the 60th anniversary with a reunion. It will not only be a social occasion but an opportunity for those that want to play, to perform a concert of familiar pieces played back in the day.
We would therefore love as many ex-Oakmead School Brass Band players as possible to come along and join us for the social and/or concert in what will be a fabulous reunion."
If anyone is interested in this event further details can be found on the Oakmead School Brass Band Facebook page.
