The Hebden Bridge Band has announced that the first Hebden Bridge Heritage Weekend which will take place on 28th and 29th June.

This weekend promises to be a magnificent weekend of brass in Hebden Bridge with a Heritage Gala Concert and March contest for all to enjoy.

Contest

Entries are now being invited for a March and Hymn Tune Contest which will be held on Sunday 29th June.

The event promises a great day for brass enthusiasts from near and far, as it is to be held in the picturesque setting of Bridge Gate and St George’s Square, with its many quaint pubs and restaurants.

The pre-drawn contest begins at 12.00 and up to 20 bands will play for the many prizes. The band has decided to break with the norm and instead offer substantial prize money to both the Youth and lower sections, not just the top section.

There will also be an award for the best junior soloist on the day, and an award for the best Calderdale band not in the prizes. Prize money in excess of £1700 has already been allocated for the day.

Heritage Weekend

The contest forms the Finale for the Hebden Bridge Heritage Weekend which also involves a Gala Concert on the Saturday evening at Hebden Bridge Picture House, with guest soloist Philip McCann. This concert will also form the second of the Band’s Patrons Concerts.

Harry Mortimer received his first cornet from Hebden Bridge Brass Band as the pre-war committee book reads: Master H. Mortimer is to be provided with a cornet on which to learn.4BR

Mortimers

The idea of the weekend is to celebrate the band’s link with the Mortimer family. Fred Mortimer was born in Hebden Bridge and started his musical career as a cornet player in Hebden, working his way along the front row seats, and eventually becoming a 'playing' conductor, playing with the right hand and beating time with the left.

Harry Mortimer received his first cornet from Hebden Bridge Brass Band as the pre-war committee book reads: "Master H. Mortimer is to be provided with a cornet on which to learn."

The band is also pleased to welcome Mr Martin Mortimer as a special guest at the event. There will also be displays by the Hebden Bridge Historical Society.

Fantastic

Band Chairman Mr Ian Plant told 4BR:"We are delighted to be holding this event in Hebden Bridge, a town with a rich banding history going back more than 150 years. The gala weekend will be a fantastic addition to the brass band calendar and will be a great weekend with lots of fun had by both players and spectators."

Queries

Any queries or entries regarding this contest or for more information, please contact Steve Gardner on 07813 110126.