St Breward Silver Band
About The Band
Records show that the St Breward band was formed in 1899, after hearing another brass band perform at a village event, local people were so concerned about the playing that they decided to form a band of their own – to see if they could do a better job. Except for the war years, the band has been in continuous existence. The first instruments purchased were all made of brass which tarnished very quickly, had to be cleaned frequently which in turn meant the brass metal got thinner and thinner and was easily damaged.
During the 1920s silver plating was introduced and the band eventually purchased a set of all silver instruments and at the same time changed their name to the St Breward Silver Band.
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The bandroom was purchased in 1955 for the sum of £ 250.00 and is still being used today as our rehearsal hall. It has just recently been refurbished with new lighting, heating, kitchen and hot water on demand being installed. Our main income throughout our history has come from performing at concerts around the North Cornwall area including Newquay, Padstow, and at Port Isaac. However for 2017, we are adding a new venue to perform at – Tintagel and in the open air but are able to use the local church should the weather dictate otherwise.
We have over the years made many CD recordings, attended many contests and often came away with another first prize, made many banding friends, who when called upon, are only too willing to help us out on the odd occasion.
Our highlights so far!!
We have been lucky enough to qualify for the National Finals on 3 occasions and in 2009 we became National Champions of Great Britain of the fourth section. The following year the band came 3rd in the third section but only the first two bands qualified to attend the National Finals!!!
Soon afterwards our then MD moved on , took many players with him and reformed the Bodmin Town Band, which are our closest neighbours. Since then we have been rebuilding our own band starting with the introduction of a junior band, some of which are already coming through and joining the senior band. This is something that we must strive to keep going as this is where this band's future lies.
In late 2016, Tom Howard, a talented player and musician, was approached to take on the Musical Director position, and since his appointment, the band has started to improve and move from strength to strength.
The future's Bright!