The Towcester Studio Band has announced a new major project which will see them link up with British Open and National Champion Foden's

Formed in 1910 in south Northamptonshire, the band has always aimed to create lasting musical opportunities for new generations of potential players — an ethos first implemented by founders Charlotte & Ada Phipps from the Phipps Brewing family.

A junior band was formed in the mid 1960's which supported a local school band which also continues to this day.

Having a blast

After several months of planning Towcester has gained Lottery funding from Arts Council England to embark on a project to provide opportunities to the local community and surrounding areas to link, learn and engage in music making by providing a series of inspirational events.

The outreach programme will be called 'Having a Blast in Towcester' (HaBiT) and is aimed at the general community to inspire new, existing and returning brass band players.

It will sessions held where people can learn new skills in music-making together with Northamptonshire and Rutland Music Education Hub — led by Northamptonshire Music & Performing Arts Trust (NMPAT) and Foden's Band.

Musical community

Speaking about the projects, Iain McKnight (Director of Ensemble & Projects at NMPAT) told 4BR: "We're delighted to support Towcester Studio Band in bringing this project to life.

The band is an important part of the musical community in south Northamptonshire and a valued partner to our hub.

Foden's are undoubted world leaders in brass, and the opportunity for young musicians to learn from them is invaluable. We know that their visit to us will be truly inspirational."

Foden's are undoubted world leaders in brass, and the opportunity for young musicians to learn from them is invaluable. We know that their visit to us will be truly inspirationalNMPAT

Project

4BR was informed that the projects will include two concerts showcasing performance opportunities, a new music commission and the chance to perform alongside Foden's personnel.

A video will be produced to chart the project for future engagement opportunities with community youth learning and research, throughout the area's music and arts scene.

Fulfilling

In response to the project news, Foden's Band Manager, Mark Wilkinson told 4BR: "Projects of this nature are an incredibly fulfilling experiences for all involved.

To help strengthen brass banding at the root of the movement is particularly rewarding."

To find out more go to:
www.towcesterstudioband.co.uk