Bradwell Silver Band is celebrating its 125th anniversary with a number of projects and initiatives that they hope will secure another century and more of music making in one of the UKs newest cities.

It has seen the Buckinghamshire band commission a new work by Scottish composer Alan Fernie entitled, 'Echoes of St James', which will be performed throughout the year, whilst its thriving Development Band offers a great foundation on which to build future success.

Old and new

'Echoes of St James' honours the community church and band concert venue, a valued partnership throughout the years.

The band was formed in 1901 and is the oldest continuously operating musical group in Milton Keynes. It undertakes numerous local events and concerts and offers free tuition and instruments, nurturing emerging talent and supporting musicians at every stage of their musical journey.

It has seen the Buckinghamshire band commission a new work by Scottish composer Alan Fernie entitled, 'Echoes of St James'4BR

Proud

A proud MD Brian Keech told 4BR: "Bradwell Silver has been part of my whole life, and my involvement is something that makes me very proud. I'm lucky to follow in the footsteps of previous MDs from our 125 years."

The band will host a special celebratory concert in May featuring guest soloist Jack Wilson, now a musician in the RAF Central Band and soprano cornet with GUS Band, but who started his musical journey in the Development Band.

Brian Keech added: "We are incredibly proud of our band and our heritage, as we celebrate 125 years, and we look forward to a year filled with music-making, community, and continued growth."