Gravesend Borough Band is always keen to welcome new players! Membership is open to musicians of all abilities and all ages, from primary pupils through to pensioners.
The band maintains good links with local schools and colleges, providing excellent opportunities for young students to extend their technical and performance experience, improve their musicianship, and progress their hobby …or even their career.
It should be noted that for the benefit of the band and fellow musicians, it is expected that band members exercise due respect and professional standards of conduct, attend rehearsals regularly and make every effort to perform at concerts.
For a list of the full range of instruments played in concert bands, please see here.
Applications for the Training Band
Although there are no restrictions on grade attainment, any player not having attained a standard that is equivalent to either ABRSM Grade 3 or Trinity Grade 3 may find some of the music a little difficult.
Ideally (though it is not essential) applications to join the band should be accompanied by a referral from the musician’s teacher.
No audition is required but the conductor will make an assessment during rehearsals to make sure the player is of -or at least able to achieve- a sufficient standard to be offered a permanent place.
Applications for the Concert Band
Although there are no restrictions on grade attainment, any player not having attained a standard equivalent to ABRSM Grade 5 or Trinity Grade 5 may find some of the music a little difficult.
That said, less experienced members are often mentored by a more experienced band member. Members must be willing to play at concerts in and around the area.
No audition is required but the conductor will make an assessment during rehearsals to make sure the player is of -or at least able to achieve- a sufficient standard to be offered a permanent place.
Rehearsals
Both bands rehearse on Thursday evenings at St George’s Church Hall, St George’s Church, Gravesend:
- Training Band from 18.30hrs to 19.15hrs (term time only)
- Concert Band from 19.30hrs to 21.30hrs.
There is plenty of free car parking after 6pm in the church hall car park.
If interested in joining, please contact us for more details or to arrange to attend a rehearsal.