Abertillery Town Band recently enjoyed performing at the 130th celebrations of its local Metropole Theatre.

Opened in 1892, 'The Met' has been an integral artistic hub of the Welsh valley's town ever since — both as a theatre and dance hall, and hosted many important cultural events, including numerous brass band concerts over the years.

Cultural life

Today, its hosts a varied programme of professional and community events involving local choirs, drama groups, musicians and dance schools who contribute to the cultural life and heritage of the town.

The town's Abertillery Youth Drama and Amateur Dramatic Societies, LRS Vocal Performing Arts, Showstoppers and Gracie-Jayne Fitzgerald organisations joined the band, who opened the concert with the march 'Death or Glory'.

They followed it with a varied programme including a reprise of 'The Guardian of the Valleys' by Philip Harper, which received its world premiere at the venue by the band as part of its 50th anniversary celebrations last year.

on Saturday 12th November will see them return to 'The Met' to welcome guest soloist, Tom Hutchinson and guest compere, David Hayward for their Annual Concert4BR

Cory guest

The event has come during a busy time for the band — one which saw them claim a top six finish at the Wychavon Entertainment contest, and which on Saturday 12th November will see them return to 'The Met' to welcome guest soloist, Tom Hutchinson and guest compere, David Hayward for their Annual Concert.

The afternoon event (2.00pm) will also include a post-concert opportunity to stay for a pint and watch the Wales versus Argentina rugby international.