51 years of Wantage Silver Band, one of the largest brass band organisations in the UK
A year on from the celebrations of their half centenary, Wantage Silver Band are carrying on with their new-found tradition of a fair style October celebration at their premises on Tugwell Field, Wantage. As if celebrating 50 years in 2022 wasn’t enough, this year they have something just as big to acknowledge – the opening of The Sykes Hall, their second band hall.
Trustee Alan Sykes said: “For those that were with us to celebrate last October, you’ll have seen a shell of an extension next to our original band hall. In fact, we used it for attendees to engage in a game of Nerf Gun target practice! The wait is over and we’re officially opening this new, fantastic building on October 7, and we can’t wait for the public to see it, and most importantly, start booking it to use.”
Yes, that’s right - the building is for community use too. With a large hall space, bar area, accessible toilets, ample parking and WiFi, it really is the perfect setup and a much needed, modern space for members of the public and families to enjoy using. Get in touch at www.wantageband.org/contact for more information.
Celebrations on Saturday, October 7 kick off with the gates opening at midday shortly followed by music from Wantage Academy Brass at 1pm. Eight of the nine bands will be performing on this day including the impressive three band learner pyramid, hugely enthusiastic community band, innovative percussion academy and three dedicated contesting bands – two of which will appear at the Wychavon Festival of Brass in Evesham just a couple of weekends later. You may even get a sneak peek of their programmes at this event!
This will be an event for all the family with refreshments, tombola, raffle, bar, games and more, all run by volunteers in the WSB 200+ membership.
For those who may wish to a dig a bit deeper, other opportunities to support the band include sponsoring a new music stand or purchasing a wall tile to be displayed proudly in the new hall. The wall tiles are a masterpiece and represent excellent value and just £25 each. Created by hand, these can be purchased by past and present band members, supporters far and wide and local businesses and organisations wishing to add their name to the WSB legacy. Please email eileensykes18@gmail.com for more information.
Trustee Sam Wyne said: “Our ‘Sponsor a Stand’ initiative is going well and we can now purchase 24 of the 60 much-needed new music stands. We really hope to reach our target of 30 by this event. If you’d like to sponsor a stand for WSB, please visit https://wonderful.org/fundraisers/NPoP7 – it’s just £20 plus gift aid (£25 without) to do so. WSB wouldn’t be where they are 51 years later without the backing of the community and projects such as these demonstrate that!”
The afternoon lasts until 7pm with the Wantage town mayor presenting this year’s WSB awards shortly before, recognising those members and supporters that have gone above and beyond for the organisation during the last year.
“A day we’ve been excited about for some time,” said Trustees chairwoman Eleanor Turner. “This is a great fundraiser for the band and will be a brilliant chance for the community to see our new hall and hear many of our bands and their fantastic music. A huge thank you to everyone who has dedicated their time and donated generously to help with it’s success.”
So, if you’re yet to attend an event organised by WSB or have a space on your calendar, look no further, and go along to what will be a fantastic event in the heart of the community. After all, nothing beats the sound of a brass band.
Founded 50 years ago, in 1972, Wantage Silver Band is recognised as one of the largest brass band organisations in the UK. The organisation currently consists of nine bands including three contesting bands (fourth, first and championship section), a non-contesting community band, a beginner/trainer/youth band, a big band, a percussion academy and even an oompah band! The entire membership work with talented musical directors to rehearse and perform music all over the country in concerts, events and competitions. Please visit www.wantageband.org for more information and the band’s Facebook page www.facebook.com/wantagesilverband for regular updates.
