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Welcome to the website for the Bath Spa Training Band
The training band exists primarily to develop players to a standard where
they can join the main band, but of course there’s so much more to the band
than that!
Started in 1987, the Training Band was set up by the Musical Director, Tim
Body. One of the objectives was to sustain the strength of the main band by
ensuring a steady influx of 'home grown' talent from the Training band.
Meet the band - young and old
The band attracts school children just starting out in the musical world, and
provides a platform to play with other people. Playing in a band is one of the
best ways to improve as a beginner, as you will always be reading new music,
learning new notes, developing musical skills. And it’s more fun than playing
on your own all the time! There is the opportunity to learn from other people,
both in the training band, and from the main band, as senior players can often
be found helping out the training band.
The band also attracts the ‘not-quite-so-young’ as a means to learn something
new, or perhaps to get back into playing music after a break.
Bob Hall, who plays baritone in the main band, was one such member, who joined
the training band a couple of years ago after a break of several years. Bob progressed
through the training band, and is now a key member of the main band.
Either way, the band is delighted to have new members, and players of all ages
and abilities are warmly welcomed.There are even some instruments available to
borrow, so even if you don’t have an instrument, you need not miss out.
The band is currently led by the energetic John Harvey, and plays a wide range
of different musical styles. John is a talented local musician, and plays in
several local groups, but is also a keen arranger. A lot of the training band
material has been arranged by John, and so it is guaranteed to test and develop
every member of the band.
Concerts
The training band plays at several different events throughout the year, on their
own, and with the main band. Players are also encouraged to come along to main band
rehearsals, particularly over the summer holidays. Not only is it a useful experience
for the training band members, but the main band are also greatful for the support.
Concerts 2008
The training band will be performing at the Widcombe Rising on Sunday 15th June at 1.30pm,
and Southstoke Church fete at Brantwood on
Saturday 21 June at 2pm. There is sure to be a varied selection of pieces to suit all tastes, so please come along to support
the band.
Rehearsals
The training band rehearses at Elim Penticostal Church, Bath, every Monday evening
during term time between 7pm and 8pm.
Click here for further details, or to contact us.
"Early one Monday evening, about 5 years ago I walked into a darkish building and it
changed my life. This is no exaggeration because joining the Bath Spa Training Band
was one of the best things I ever did.
It’s probably the combination of an immensely musically talented conductor (John),
the very nice mixed group of players ranging from the very young to the not so young
and the wonderful choice of music.
For me in particular it’s the privilege of playing real music, classical, swing, early
music, all brilliantly arranged by John . Some of it is not too difficult (but then he
makes you switch parts) and some of it is very hard but one day we’ll manage it. My trumpet
playing skills were zilch to start with and they’ll never be fantastic but I have learned
and improved a lot in this very enjoyable time.
We’re also fortunate to have people from the senior band joining us from time to time or
conducting when John is not there. We have performed at street fairs and fetes and I can
wholeheartedly recommend giving us a try - whatever your standard of playing."
Wilma, Training band cornet player
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