The Shepherd Group Band will be celebrating a special 20th anniversary later this month.

It marks two decades of rejuvenation that started in 2004 when the band lost its long term sponsorship from Nestle Rowntree and was in danger of being disbanded.

Hard work

However, thanks to a great deal of hard work, the Shepherd Group stepped in and offered support not only financially but also in providing rehearsal facilities at Portakabin Ltd.

It marked the start of an amazing revitalisation for the band — one that 20 years later has grown from two ensembles to six, with the organisation providing brass tuition and instruments to well over 180 people of all ages from 6 years old to over 80.

Concert

The special anniversary concert is being held on 29th June at the Theatre Royal in York commencing (7.30pm).

It will not only feature all their ensembles in performance but will also include the world premiere of a new work specially commissioned to celebrate the occasion.