Brass Band Reference - Extinct Brass Bands

Extinct Brass Bands

Of the many brass bands that have flourished in Britain over the last 150 years very few have documented records covering their history. This page is an attempt to collect together information about such bands and make it available to all. Over 3,000 extinct bands are recorded here. Where "active" dates are given these indicate documented appearances - the bands may well have existed beyond those dates quoted. Any contributions of material, information, pictures, or suggestions, references etc. are more than welcome. Where the material warrants it, a separate page or archive will be established for particular bands. Various bands have changed their names several times over the years, which makes tracking them down more difficult. Any details of "family tree" relationships between bands and their names will also be welcome. Finally, if any band appearing on this list is still active, please let me know!

See also Cornish Brass Bands for details of extinct Cornish bands
See Brass Bands Genealogy for information on current bands' dates of origin and name changes
See Brass Band Ancestors for those seeking information on people and bands
See Vintage Brass Band Pictures for images of early brass bands
See Vintage People Pictures for images of early bandsmen (largely unnamed)
See Brass Band Historians and Researchers for details of those seeking information

Please send any additions, corrections, comments or material to

gavin@ibew.co.uk

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L.A.V. (Chorley) Band, 3rd: See: 3rd L.A.V. (Chorley) Band
L.M.S. Band (Stockport): Active in 1930s - 1950s
L.N.E.R. (Gorton) Works Band: Active in the 1930s and 1940s. Pre-war the Geff Benson was musical director of the band, which was based in Cornwall Street, Openshaw. Also possibly known as LNER (Manchester District) Silver Prize Band - under which name they were a prizewinner at the Leicester contest on 5th March 1938, and also winning a deportment prize at a contest in Salford in May 1930. (See also, possibly, Gorton & Openshaw Prize Silver Band)
L.N.E.R. (Manchester District) Silver Prize Band: See: L.N.E.R. (Gorton) Works Band
L.N.E.R. Works Silver Band (Shildon): See: Shildon British Railways Band
Lady Boswell's Brass Band (Auchinleck): Active in 1879, when it took part in a procession in August to inaugurate the Kilmarnock Burns Monument and Kay Park, accompanying the Free Gardeners lodge.
Lady Windsor Colliery Band (Glamorgan): Active in 1948
Lamberhurst Village Band (Kent): Active in 1884 with Walter Bayley as bandmaster
Lambeth Borough Band: Competed in the Crystal Palace Championships in the 1930s
Lanark Rifle Volunteers Band, 1st: See: 1st Lanark Rifle Volunteers Band
Lancashire & Yorkshire Railway Loco Works Band (Horwich): Active in 1905
Lancashire Battalion Home Guard Band, 32nd: See: 32nd Lancashire Battalion Home Guard Band
Lancashire Brass Band: Active in 1979
Lancashire Constabulary Band: Formed in 1964 and still active in the 1980s, they rehearsed at Hutton, Preston.
Lancashire Fusiliers Association Brass Band: Active in 1975, but folded before 1997, when six drummers from the band formed the core of a new Fusiliers' Association [Lancashire] Band and Corps of Drums - which is active today.
Lancashire Home Guard Band, 48th: See: 48th Lancashire Home Guard Band
Lancashire Rifle Volunteers (Bacup) Band, 4th: See: Bacup Old Band
Lancaster Borough Band: Active in 1912 - Robert Redhead was foreman & bandmaster, of 55 Willow Lane
Lancing Band (Sussex): Active in 1919
Landrake Band (Cornwall): To the West of Saltash, Landrake Band were busy from 1876. In 1907 they were led by Edgar Panter and in 1928 by Lewis Goard. It does appear that they were still active in 1939 as there is a report of them performing at a local sports day. During WW2 they got a band together in 1943 for a local carnival, then a few engagements in 1944 and by 1945 they do seem to be back in business under the direction of A Davey. Then they rapidly went through new titles (eg Landrake Band: Landrake Working Men's Band and Landrake Brass Band) and all in 1945!. Soon after this they disbanded. I can find no record of any Cornish contests attended. A sideline is that in 1952 their instruments were raided by a group of schoolboy "musicians" for a local event. One of these "players" commented that the only tune they knew was "Jingle Bells" so for the next two hours they pretended to play and hummed,loudly, this one song over and over again. For this they won the "Tableaux Hunorous" prize, so I suppose that it could be argued that the band did win a competition at least once.
Langcliffe Brass Band: At the turn of the century Langcliffe, Giggleswick and Settle had brass bands, here it was a group of men largely from the Chapel community. Bob West played the cornet, his brother Fred the euphonium and Alf Farrer came down from Stainforth when they were short of players, likewise Tom Marsden, were members. Jimmie Fox beat the drum, which when not in use was hung up on a nail in the school. The rest of the instruments were kept in the loft above the stables at the Hall (along with the bier). The Band always played round the Big Tree on Christmas morning, went home for dinner and then out again to go round the big houses, so Langcliffe families did not see much of their menfolk on Christmas Day. In the end enthusiasm waned and some men left to join Giggleswick band although Alf Hocking tried to keep Langcliffe going by recruiting youngsters. Dick Middleton was one of these but on the second time he turned up it was announced that the band was 'disbanded'. This would be about 1938 as they played for the Jubilee and Coronation celebrations.
Langham Labour League Band: Active in 1871
Langholm Brass Band: Active in 1880s
Langholm Temperance Band: Disbanded around 1927. The instruments were sold to the Annan Town Band for Ł105
Langley Park Band (County Durham): Known to be in existence in 1921 when they received their 1st full set of CISWO instruments. Folded in 2004.
Langley Park Colliery Band: See: Langley Park Band
Langton Matravers: A band existed in the village in the second half of the Nineteenth Century. The instruments were bought by Mrs Frances Serrell, a rather eccentric but philanthropic widow who lived in Durnford Manor House, situated in the very centre of the village. In the village museum there is a photo of her Band-Master in his uniform and the names of several known Members. They also possess the Band-Master's silver Cornet, which was a gift from Mrs Serrell, an E flat Clarinet and two brass instruments used in the band, though they are now in a rather sorry state. They are of the Tenor Horn/Tuba variety. The Band folded when Mrs Serrell died in 1889
Langwathby Band (Cumbria)
Langwith Colliery Institute Silver Band: Competed in a brass band contest at Overseal, Leicestershire in July 1921, under conductor A.S. Grant (drawn 1 of 11 bands, they were placed 3rd)
Langwith Miners Welfare Band: Active in 1964 (conducted by G.H. Thorpe)
Lanner & District Silver Band: Formed in the 1890s and disbanded in 1902. Another band of the same name formed in 1965
Lansil Works Band (Lancaster)
Laporte Industries Band: Disbanded in 1993?
Largo Silver Band (Fife): Active in 1933
Larkhall Silver Band (Lanarkshire)
Larne Town Silver Band: Folded before 1962, when its instruments were obtained by the 1st Larne Old Boys' Association Silver Band
Lassodie Public Band (Fife): Active in 1928, conducted by W.A. Allison
Laura Brass Band (South Australia): Active in 1907
Laurieston Brass Band: Active in the early 1900s
Lavender Hill Temperance Band: Competed in the 1901 contest at the Crystal Palace on July 10th. H. T. Embury was one of the players. Competed in the 4th Section National Finals in 1902.
Layer de la Haye Band: Active around 1910. For more details, see Grandad Played The Cornet: A History of Brass Bands in North East Essex, by David Cawdell.
Lazonby Temperance Brass Band (Cumbria): Active in the 1890s/1900s
Lea Mills Prize Band: Competed in the British Open and other contests from 1898 to 1910
Leadgate Colliery Band: See: Leadgate Workmen's Band
Leadgate Mission Band (County Durham): A Wesleyan Mission band, active from 1903 to 1934
Leadgate Workmen's Band (County Durham): Formed in the 1900s and still active in 1931
Leadhills Silver Band: Active in the early 1900s
Leamington Priors Town Band: Accounts of the band, from 1897-1900, are held at Warwickshire County Record Office
Leasingbourne Colliery Band: Formed in the 1900s and was disbanded when the workers were transferred to the Dean and Chapter Colliery.
Leasingthorne Colliery Prize Band (Coundon): Formed in the 1900s and still active in 1937
Leasington Colliery Band (County Durham): Formed in the 1900s and still active in 1914
Leatherhead Silver Band
Lechlade Town Band: Active in 1910
Lee Mount Band (Halifax)
Lee Moor and Stanley Silver Prize Band: Active in 1913
Leeds (Smiths) Band: Active in the 1850s
Leeds City Band: Active in late 1950s and early 1960s. Probably a continuation of the Leeds City Royal Artillery Association Band
Leeds City Commercial Club Band: Active in late 1960s and early 1970s. Probably a continuation of the Leeds City Band
Leeds City Royal Artillery Association Band: Formed 1949
Leeds Forge Band: Instituted 1882 by the head of the Leeds Forge Company, Samuel Fox one-time Mayor of Harrogate. Members were originally all workmen in the Leeds Forge Company's Works. The practices took place in the Forge every Sunday from 10.30 to 12.30, with several others held during the week. The players were equipped with two sets of instruments, two sets of uniforms and full rehearsal accommodations. Fox was very ambitious and offered gold medals and further funding if they could beat Besses o' th' Barn Band. They began contesting in 1886 and made a very successful start with high placings in the British Open. Following changes in management at the Forge the band was disbanded in 1892 with all instruments and equipment recalled.
Leeds Model Band: See: Yorkshire Evening Post Band
Leeds Railway Foundry Band: Flourished in the 1850s
Leeds Temperance Band: Flourished in the 1840/50s and undertook a four-week season of concert in Scarborough in 1847 for ?60. Repeated the season in 1848/9 also.
Leek British Legion Band: Active in the 1930s to 1950s
Leek Harmonic Brass Band: Formed in 1867 and held Friday evening concerts in the market place during the summer. May have also been called Leek Promenade Band in 1873.
Leek Promenade Band: See Leek Harmonic Brass Band
Leek Temperance Band (Staffordshire): Active in 1896/1904, W. Hough bandmaster & secretary. In 1912 Stephen Godwin was bandmaster and Henry Head secretary.
Leek Volunteer Band (Staffordshire): Active in the 1880s. They gave open air concerts to large audiences in Leek Market Place on Monday evenings in the summer, as well as leading local processions.
Lees and Glodwick Band (Oldham): See: Glodwick Band
Lees Brass Band (Oldham): Founded in 1840
Lenton Band (Nottingham): Active in 1909
Leicester Club and Institute Band: Active in 1933
Leicester Highfield Brass Band: Wound up in the courts as of 10th February 1902
Leicester Imperial Band: Active in the early 1900s and 1920s. Also known as Leicester Imperial Prize Brass Band. Competed in a brass band contest at Overseal, Leicestershire in July 1921, under conductor S. S. H. Iliffe (drawn 3 of 11 bands, they were placed 4th). Still active in 1964, when conducted by A. Anderson.
Leicester Imperial Prize Brass Band: See: Leicester Imperial Band
Leicester Ivanhoe Band: Competed in a brass band contest at Overseal, Leicestershire in July 1921, under conductor C. A. Anderson (drawn 5 of 11 bands, they were not placed)
Leicester Special Constabulary Band
Leicestershire Co-operative (SMW) Band: Merged with Charnwood Brass in 1999
Leicestershire Volunteers Band: Active in 1879 when it was directed by J Smith
Leigh (Lanes) Band: Active in 1930
Leigh Bedford Band: See: Bedford (Leigh) Band
Leigh Borough Band: Active in 1933
Leigh British Legion Band: See: Leigh Silver Band
Leigh Silver Band: Formed in 1920, it disbanded in December 2001. Formerly known as Leigh British Legion Band. Competed in the First Annual Brass Band Contest organised by Wigan Borough Prize Band in 1943 (conducted by H. Foxwell).
Leighton Buzzard Band (Bedfordshire)
Leighton Ironworks Band (Uttoxeter): Active in 1910. The band was supported by Samuel Bamford, the owner of the Leighton Ironworks (which was established in 1871 in addition to the Bamford Ironmongery business founded in 1845). The band was later known as the Bamford Military Band
Leith Silver Band: Active in the 1950s and 1960s
Lelant Brass Band (Cornwall): Hayle is the nearest larger town to Lelant, and in 1905 they decided to form a band under James Maddern. He stayed until 1911 when the leadership was handed over to John Tanner. EC Wills took over in 1914 and promtly left in 1915 to go to Redruth Band. The band closed down during WW1 but reorganised when that bit of unpleasantness was over. About 1931 F Gregory took over and stayed until 1942 when strange things began to happen. In 1942 they were reorganised under the new title Lelant United Services Band, still under F Gregory who, because of this second disagreement with Germany, was now in the National Fire Service (NFS). This lasted until 1943 when the Home Guard (Dad's Army) was formed and Lelant's instruments were loaned to the 14th Battalion Home Guard (St Ives) Band, now under the baton of Bandmaster Coombe. The Lelant Band - civilian - reapperas in 1945. Their contesting was confined to 1911 - 1914, their best result being achieved at a St Dennis contest in 1913 when they entered the second section playing "Village Bride" and winning Ł5 for their 2nd placing. After WW2, with the exception of victory parades, nothing more can be found.
Lelant Downs Brass Band (Cornwall): In the St Ives/Hayle area, the Lelant Downs Brass Band sounds like one of these makeshift bands for a one-off gig. In 1888 they played for the Ludgvan Wesley Sunday School Festival and the press report leaves one in no doubt the there could not have been any learners performing.
Lemington Glass Works Band: Competed in the Crystal Palace Championships in the 1930s
Lerryn Band (Cornwall)
Lerwick Brass Band (Shetland): Active between the 1890s and 1920s
Leslie and District Brass Band (Fife): Active in 1913-1927. In 1928 was conducted by Charles M. Terris
Leslie Town Band (Fife): Active in 1933
Lesmahagow and District Public Miners' Welfare Band: Started in 1927 as an offshoot of the Independent Order of Good Templars Band and was known simply as the Public Band, but the need for a regular source of funds brought association with the Miners' Welfare club. Due to dwindling public support and the lack of players of the right calibre, it was found necessary to wind up the band at the start of WW2. During its brief history, the Public band had reached the Premier grade and had achieved nation-wide recognition following its successes on the contest field and radio broadcasts on the BBC. When the band disposed of their instruments they donated the proceeds of the sale of their instruments to the Nursing Association to buy the district nurse's first car. The band trophies, which dated from the contests held in the village in the twenties, saw the light of day once more when the Lesmahagow Highland Games were inaugurated in the late nineteen fifties. The 'Nethanvale Cup' is awarded to the best Lanarkshire pipe band in Grade Three and the 'St. Machute' trophy to the band second in Grade Three. The Vale of Nethan Pipe Band, which came into being in 1953 as an off-shoot of the Boys' Brigade band, quickly rose to prominence under the firm leadership of Pipe Major Archie Templeton and drum-tutor Jim Macintyre but later fell into obscurity with comparable rapidity. However, on the third Saturday of June each year, the Highland Games remains a popular date in the pipe band contest and sporting calendars as a reminder of the golden age of bands in Lesmahagow Parish.
Lesmahagow Public Band: See: Lesmahagow and District Public Miners' Welfare Band
Leven Town Band (Fife): Active in 1918-1971
Leven Valley Brass Band (Cumbria)
Levenshulme Brass Band
Leverton Brass Band (Lincolnshire)
Lewes Temperance Mission Brass Band: Active in the 1890s
Lewes Town and Volunteer Cinque Ports Band: See: Lewes Town Band
Lewes Town Band (Sussex): Formed around 1840 as the Lewes Town and Volunteer Cinque Ports Band. The band played at regular local functions throughout the 20th century including concerts at the Town Hall, civic events, church parades and Armistice Day, local band contests and at the annual Lewes Bonfire ceremonies with one of the bonfire societies. In the 1950s the band provided two men to play state trumpets as heralds at the Sussex Assizes. Past conductors include Mr Emmler and Mr Gates (19th century), A K Tappin (1904-1948), F Austin and F Lockwood (variously, 1948-1950), Squadron Leader T D Atkinson (c1950- ). Records of the band, from 1914-1950, are held at the East Sussex Record Office
Lewington Glass Works Band (Newcastle): Formed in the 1900s and still active in 1947, probably folded in the 1950s
Lewington Yamaha Band: Active in the 1980s
Lewis Merthyr Workmen's Institute Band: Active in 1951
Leyburn Band (North Yorkshire): Formed in 1841, folded in 1994. A new band, Leyburn Centenary Band, was formed in the town in 2003
Leyland British Legion Band (Leyland, Lancashire)
Leyland Parish Church Band (Leyland, Lancashire)
Leysian Methodist Mission Brass Band (London): Active between 1903 and 1924 - (minutes exist in the London Metropolitan Archives)
Leyton Borough Silver Band (London)
Leyton Christchurch Brass Band
Leytonstone Excelsior Band: Active in the 1900s
Lichfield City Band: Formed in 1910 and survived until 1937. A new Lichfield City Band was formed in 1985
Lichfield Volunteer Band: Active in 1905
Liddesdale Temperance Band (Scotland): Active in 1964, conducted by D Johnson
Lighthouse Silver Band (Walthamstow, East London): Disbanded in the 1950s
Lightwater Brass Band (Surrey): Photographs, a jacket worn by one of the bandsmen and part of a tea service issued with the band’s name on it are held in the Surrey Heath Museum.
Lilleshall Collieries Prize Band: See: Lilleshall Colliery Brass Band
Lilleshall Colliery Brass Band: Originally St George's Temperance Band and renamed following the colliery sponsorship in 1907, when the company bought the band many new instruments and a set of new uniforms. Name changed to Oakengates Band? in 1962 when the council helped financially. The band folded in the 1970s. For further information see Web Link
Lillydale Band (Australia): Folded prior to 1962 when its instruments and some ex-members formed the Croydon Brass Band with others from Ferntree Gully Band
Linacre Wesleyan Mission Silver Band: Active in early 1900s
Lincoln City Band: Active in 1919, A. Cox was bandmaster (of 24 Pond Street)
Lincoln Excelsior Brass Band: Active in 1897 when John Elvin was secretary
Lincoln Iron and Steel Works Band: Active in 1890s to 1920s
Lincoln Ironworks Band: See: Lincoln Iron and Steel Works Band
Lindenow Band (Victoria, Australia)
Lingdale Ironstone Miners' Band: See: Lingdale Silver Band
Lingdale Silver Band: Formed in 1851 as Lingdale Ironstone Miners' Band. Later known as Lingdale Silver Band, Lingdale Silver (ICI Chemical Products) Band (from 1986). Merged with Yarm & District Band in 1998 to form Lockwood Band
Linkinhorne Parish Band (Cornwall): The village of Linkinhorne can be found between Callington and Launceston. They, the villagers, formed a band in 1887/88 and by 1890 they were fully kitted out with uniforms - all eleven (plus bass and side drums) of them. By 1910 their uniform had changed completely and very smart they look too. By now they had 15 players. In 1907 J Doney took over the leadership of the band and probably stayed with them until the end which appears to be about 1921.
Linlithgow Town Band: Report of it disbanding in 1899. Another report of it (or a successor band) being active in 1903
Linton Colliery Band (Morpeth): Active around 1904
Lisburn Silver Band (Northern Ireland): Formed in the early 1920s and merged with Lurganure Silver Band in 1993 to form Garvey Silver Band
Lisburn Temperance Band: See: Lisburn Temperance Silver Band
Lisburn Temperance Silver Band: Active in the 1950s/60s
Liskeard Borough Band: Formed in the 1890s
Liskeard Temperance Band: Formed in 1901
Lismore Brass Band (Australia): Active in 1909
Lister Silver Band (Dursley, Gloucestershire): See: Listers Social Club Band
Listers Social Club Band (Dursley, Gloucestershire): The engineering company, R.A.Lister & Co Ltd., had its own military band and also brass band at one time. The latter was also known as the Lister Silver Band, which was active during the 1960s
Litherland Prize Band (Liverpool): Active in 1926, but folded, probably after WW2. It reformed sometime in the 1960's under W.E. (Billy) Pugh and played in the area until it ceased to exist in the late 1970's. Although never a large band, it had a youth section, again led by Billy Pugh. A number of the people who started there are still active these days. [thanks to Ian Lanceley]
Little Bowden Brass Band (Leicestershire): Active in 1884 - possibly related to the Syminton's soup powder factory in Little Bowden. May be the same band as "Symington's Brass Band"
Little Gaddesden Brass Band (Berkhampstead): Active in 1903
Little Ilford Tabernacle Brass Band: Active in the early 1900s, when the conductor was Harry Jones.
Little Lever Temperance Band: Formed in 1896 by the Church of England Temperance Society. All the bandsmen paid a subscription of 2 pence per week to be a member. Within a few years they had become successful on the contest scene and were able to add Prize to their name. The band initially rehearsed at St Matthew's Church, but later moved to their own bandroom in Back Lever Street. It was commented in 1935 that the band was in low waters financially but the bandsmen made up for this in their enthusiasm. At this time it was customary to divide the engagement fee half and half between the band and the bandsmen, most bands did this as a source of beer money for the men. It disbanded in the 1940's.
Little London Band (Leeds): Active in 1887
Littleborough Reach Brass Band: Active in 1909
Littleborough Temperance Band
Littledean Brass Band: Active in 1843. A band organized by temperance supporters played at a horticultural show in the village school in 1865
Littlehampton Sacred Brass Band: Formed in the 1880s as a drum and fife band by George Sainsbury who moved to Littlehampton from Fawley in Hampshire. By 1895 it had converted to a full brass band. Eventually, Sainsbury left England and went to live in Canada where he set up the Weston Boys Brass Band. Some time before 1936 the band was renamed Littlehampton Town Band and converted to a concert band lineup with woodwind instruments, eventually disbanding in 1952.
Liverpool Amateur Band: Active in the 1860s
Liverpool Brass Band
Liverpool Corporation Passenger Transport Band: Active in 1958
Liverpool Orphanage Band: Active in 1932
Liverpool Postal Band: Active in 1898
Liverpool Reformatory School Brass Band: Active in the late 1800s. The Liverpool Juvenile Reformatory Farm School, Mill Lane (now Winwick Road), Newton-in-Makerfield, was operational between 1850 and 1900. Abel Jones, who lived in Earlestown from 1861 until his death in 1886, was the band's conductor. As an aside, it is interesting to note that a certain delinquent, sent to such a school at the age of 12, would never have otherwise had the opportunity to learn to play an instrument, became world famous. This school was the New Orleans Home for Colored Waifs - he was Louis Armstrong.
Liverpool Victoria Brass Band: Active in the 1890s
Liverpool West Derby Band: Active in 1967
Lizard Band (Cornwall): "THE RIVAL BANDSMEN OF MENEAGE. Or He Who Collars a Man and Gets Knocked Down is Served Rightly." This was the heading in the "Cornishman" newspaper of 1888 when reporting an assault case heard at the West Kerrier petty sessions. Roughly what happened was that there was a festival held in St Keverne and the Porthalla Band were engaged to provide the music. St Keverne Band had usually played at this event, but not this time, although several of their members turned up for a day out.. The Lizard Band had had the nerve to bring their instruments but were not allowed to perform. During an interval, whilst Porthalla Band were having their tea, Richard Jose, John Tiddy and Mr Chiddock, all Lizard Band members, were laughing together and jeering at bandsmen of the other two bands. William Scobie, of St Keverne Band, remonstrated with them, upon which Jose grabbed Scobie by the collar. Scobie floored him with a punch to the side of the head rendering him unconcious for several minutes. End of fracas. The court dismissed the case and each party had to pay their own costs, estimated at being not less than Ł3. The Good Old Days!! Apart from that, Lizard band seems to have been active only in the early 1880's.
Llan Ffestiniog Band: Founded around 1864. Between 1883 and 1895 won prize money to the value of nearly ?300 in competitions in Porthmadog, Barmouth, Dolgellau, Llanrwst, Llanfairfechan, Corwen, Rhyl, Bala and Caernarfon.
Llandovery Town Band
Llandrindod Temperance Band: Active in 1890s
Llanddulas Silver Band: Active in the 1940/50/60s. The band played at Gwrych Castle on Sunday's in the summer. As Terry Jones recalls: "The band was very much a family affair, my Taid Dafydd Jones was the band master, my father Glynne Jones played trombone, Uncle Stanley played cornet and cousins Elwyn Roberts and Merfyn Hughes also played."
Llangefni Silver Band: Active in 1933
Llanhilleth Brass Band: Active in 1900, when it was conducted by Frederick James Hayes
Llanrug Royal Brass Band: Disbanded around 1886. A report in 1888 records the formation of a successor band: "The Llanrug Royal Brass Band has been well known in North Wales for many years, and during that time they were successful gladiators on the field of contest, and won for themselves a far-famed name and many a worthy victory at band contests held in different parts of England and Wales. But, to our sorrow, this band was disbanded about two years ago, and since then the melodious strains of the old and highly respected company who gladdened many a heart in this romantic neighbourhood have disappeared. But the quarrymen of this musical locality could not rest on their oars; and, to remedy the loss, a meeting was convened, and a committee formed as follows: Rev. T. Jones, rector (chairman); Mr J. Williams, Buarth (treasurer); Rev. D. Collwyn Morgan, curate (secretary); and Mr R. J. Pritchard (bandmaster). Negotiations were entered into with the noted firm of Messrs Besson, London, for the purchase of an entirely new set of instruments. A number of musical enthusiasts offered themselves, and were formed into a band, under the old name, and under the conductorship of a member of the old band and a noted cornet player. The efforts of the bandmaster have given perfect satisfaction to the members of the band and committee, and are highly appreciated in the parish. He has won already a victory, and deserves the praise of all for the .very high state of efficiency of his band, The old band was one of the finest in North Wales, and we entertain such hopes of the new company and able conductor that we expect to record more victories and better laurels for them than the old band ever won. A grand concert was given lately in aid of the band fund, the Rev. T, Johns, rector, took the chair. There was a crowded audience, and a handsome surplus was left, At Llangefni on Easter Monday the band carried away the prize and the silver medal with great credit to themselves. They were highly complimented by the adjudicator on their almost perfect rendering of the "Hallelujah Chorus" the test piece. Last. Thursday the band was invited to play at Portdinorwic on the occasion of Mr Assheton Smith's wedding. The pieces played were rendered in good style and taste, and were highly appreciated and loudly applauded by the hundreds of people present"
Llansaint Temperance Silver Band: Active in 1908
Llansaint Silver Band: Competed in the 1964 West of England Regional Championships (4th Section), conducted by E. Charlton
Llansilin Band: Folded around 1960
Llanstephan Brass Band (S Wales): Active in 1895
Llay Colliery Welfare Band (Wrexham): Active in 1933. Disbanded in 1967 - with instruments and equipment going to the Point of Ayr Band
Llay Institute Band (Wrexham): See: Colliery Welfare Band
Loanhead Ex-Service and Burgh Band (Loanhead): Formed after 1918 and disbanded at the start of the Second World War
Lochhead and Victoria Band (Scotland)
Lochore Colliery Band (Scotland)
Lockeridge Band (Wiltshire): Amalgated with the Overton Band in 1934 to form Kennet Vale Silver Band
Lockwood Band: Active from the 1940s to the early 1990s. Also known as Lockwood (Jos Lumb and Son) Band, early 1980s, and Lockwood F. Drake Fibres Band, late 1980s
Loddon Town Band: Active in the 1920s and the 1970s
Lofthouse Saxhorn Band: Active in 1859 when it took part in the Lofthouse Grand Village Band Contest in November that year. It was conducted by J Walker, had 10 performers, and played Hallelujah Chorus from Handel's Messiah. and the test piece, Grand Parade March by Jones.
Lofthouse Colliery Band: Active in the 1950s to 1970s
Loftus Iron Works Band (Stockton): Founded in the 1900s and still active in 1913
London Great Central and Metropolitan Band
London & North Western Carriage Works Band (Crewe): See: London & North Western Railway Crewe Works Band
London & North Western Railway Band
London & North Western Railway Crewe Works Band: Active in the 1910s and 1920s.
London & South Western Railway Band: Active in the 1900s
London North Western Garston Docks Prize Brass Band
London Victoria Amateurs Band: Active in 1861
Long Buckby Temperance Silver Prize Band: Played as part of the celebrations for the visit to Northampton of His Majesty King George V and Her Majesty Queen Mary on Tuesday the 23rd September 1913 - at Far Cotton. In the late 1940s it merged with Long Buckby Town Band and Daventry Town Band to form Daventry and District Silver Band
Long Buckby Town Band: Active until the late 1940s when it merged with Long Buckby Temperance Band and Daventry Town Band to form Daventry and District Silver Band
Long Buckley Town Band (Northamptonshire): Active in 1900
Long Downs Brass Band (Cornwall): Long Downs is situated about 5 miles North West of Falmouth and in 1881 a band of that name played at a Weslyan Sunday school procession and tea treat in Porkellis. At present no more is known about this group either before or after this event.
Long Eaton Town Band: Active in 1910
Long Itchington Silver Band: Active in 1905
Long Lea Band
Longannet Colliery Band (Cowdenbeath): See: Cowdenbeath Brass Band
Longbridge-Deverill Band (Wiltshire): Active in 1940s
Longford Star Band: Competed in a brass band contest at Bedworth in 1888
Longridge Prize Band: Active in 1911
Longsight Steam Sheds Band: Active in 1869/70
Longton Town Band: See: Co-operative Society Prize Band (Burslem & District)
Longtown Brass Band (Cumberland): Active in 1910 when Jas. Bell was secretary. In 1914 the secretary was William Bell
Longwith Band: Competed at the Crystal Palace in 1920
Looe Town Bands (Cornwall): Looe does have a history of "on/off" bands, starting with the Volunteer Artillery Band (1865-1907). Even this unit, on sxeveral occasions, had no band. Even so, from 1907 to 1912, there does appear to be two bands in town, the Artillery and a town band, probably because most players played in both bands. Certainly the town band, in 1907, were efficient enough to play such items as the overture "Tancredi". A photo of the band of this period shows 24 players, among whome were five clarinets and one flute/piccolo. An impressive size for a Cornish band of this period. The town band was led by AR Mitchell. After 1912 nothing can be found of an active band, though there are several attempts to reform between the wars - all to no avail.
Lord Lawson School Brass Band: One of the most successful school brass bands, active in the 1970s. It unfortunately folded once it's conductor Mr Bruce Wigham left, in 1986.
Loscoe Miners Welfare Band
Lostock Junction Brass Band (Bolton): Active in 1902, when they headed a procession through Chew Moor.
Lostock Industrial School Band (Bolton): For a time one of the teachers at the Industrial School took to teaching the boys music and formed a band. The band was short lived around the 1900's.
Loudon Brass Band (Cardiff): Active in 1910
Loudoun Band: Originally consisted of players from Loudoun Academy Band but became a separate organisation in 1974. In 1990, it amalgamated with Newmilns Burgh Band and Galston Burgh Band
Loughborough Borough Prize Band: Active in the early 1960s
Loughborough Town Silver Band
Loughor Excelsior Brass Band: Formed in 1873. Disbanded 1918. The Loughor Excelsior Brass Band was formed under the baton of William Dennis in 1873. Very little is known of those early years, but the band would have featured prominently in the entertainment of the villagers and at ceremonial functions, funerals, outdoor marches and concerts. A balance sheet for 31st December, 1902 mentions that new silver plated instruments had been bought for ?318 from Messrs. Boosey & Co. Military Band Instrument Manufacturers, Regent Street, London. The officers were obliged to pay the amount in full within three years. In the summer of 1903 under the baton of Mr. Bleddyn Dennis, the band earned itself the title of a Silver Band Prize. Competing at Llanelly, the Loughor players emerged as winners of the prestigious Challenge Shield of the West Wales Association. Each summer at the Loughor Regatta, the Silver Band was always present to provide suitable music of an entertaining nature. With the outbreak of the Ward in Europe in 1914, Mr. Bleddyn Dennis joined the Swansea Police Band, to become its conductor, but left in 1912 for New Zealand. The trenches of France denied the village of its young men, who joined the Welsh Regiments as infantry men. Thus after 1918 enthusiasm waned and the organisation folded. The drum and sticks were preserved until 1938 when they were given to the Salvation Army Band in Gorseinon. (Source: The History of Loughor)
Loughton Excelsior Brass Band (Essex): Active in 1892, to at least 1905. They would perform at the drinking fountain at the corner of High Road and Station Road, Loughton.
Louth Mission Band (Lincolnshire)
Low Moor Band (Bradford): Active in 1855
Low Moor Ironworks Band (Bradford)
Low Moor L.M.S. Band: Active in 1933
Lowca Colliery Band (Whitehaven, Cumberland)
Lower Annandale Band (Annan): Active from 1830s to 1850s at least
Lower Ince Temperance Band: Active in 1965
Lowerhouse Mills Band (Burnley): Active in the 1920s/30s
Lowerplace Band: Competed in the Crystal Palace Championships in the 1930s.
Lowestoft Railway Silver Band
Luddenden Old Band: See: Oats Royd Mills Brass Band
Ludgvan Band (Cornwall)
Lumley (6th Pit) Colliery Band: See Lumley Colliery Band
Lumley Colliery Band (County Durham): Formed in the 1890s. Competed in the Crystal Palace Championships in the 1930s. Won the Cassell's Shield at the Crystal Palace in 1928. Still active in 1964, but folded later in the 1960s.
Lumley Colliery Silver Prize Band: See Lumley Colliery Band
Lumley Temperance Band (County Durham): Active in 1899
Lumley Town Band (County Durham): Active in 1928
Lurganure Silver Band (Northern Ireland): Lurganure Silver Band originated from Hull's Hill Accordian Band which met at Hull's Hill Mission Hall, Moira Road, Lisburn, in 1935. In 1951 the members felt that a change was needed and the decision was taken to change from accordian to silver. Around the early 1950's, at Christmas, the Band visited numerous homes in the locality to entertain them by playing carols. In so doing, money was raised which went to-wards presents for the children at Lissue Children's Hospital, Ballinderry Road, Lisburn. This was an event which started at Bradbury's Corner and continued, by foot, to Cockhill Corner. It took place for a number of years until road and traffic conditions endangered the safety of members. It vis well known that the band had an exclusively male membership, but in 1978 ladies were finally admitted after much discussion and deliberation among their male counterparts. It merged with Lisburn Silver Band in 1993 to form Garvey Silver Band
Luton Public Band: Competed in the Crystal Palace Championships in the 1930s
Luton Wesleyan Central Mission Brass Band
Lycett Mission Band: Competed in the Crystal Palace Championships in the 1930s
Lydbrook Excelsior Band: Earlier known as Lydbrook Morgan's Band in the 1880s, renamed as the Excelsior Band in 1900. Merged with other bands in 1923 to form Lydbrook Silver Band
Lydbrook Morgan's Band: See: Lydbrook Excelsior Band
Lydbrook Tin Plate Works Band: Active in 1882.
Lydford Town Band: Active in 1895
Lyme Regis Town Band: Disbanded in the early 1950s. (new band formed in 1981)
Lymington Borough Band: See: Lymington Town Prize Band
Lymington Borough Military Band: See: Lymington Town Prize Band
Lymington Temperance Band: Active in the early 1900s
Lymington Town and Volunteer Band: See: Lymington Town Prize Band
Lymington Town Band: See: Lymington Town Prize Band
Lymington Town Prize Band (Hampshire): Founded in 1883 as Lymington Town and Volunteer Band, later known as Lymington Town Band, then Lymington Town Prize Band. Still active in 1911 when Arthur Percival Cooper Hewitt was the secretary. Still active in 1938.
Lymm Public Band: Active in 1932
Lyneham Band: Active in 1911
Lynemouth Colliery Band: Amalgamated with Newbiggin Colliery Band at some point.
Lynn Original Brass Band: Formed in 1854, disbanded in 1866
Lynn Working Men's Saxhorn Band (Kings Lynn): Active between 1854 and 1866. Josiah H Reddie was a founder member.

M
M.T.T. Band (Hackney, South Australia): Active in 1925
Macclesfield Town Band: Active 1915 to 1968
Machynlleth Town Band: Active in 1927
Madeley Silver Band (Shropshire)
Madeley Town Band: The Band led the Broseley Friendly Society Parade, in aid of the Hospitals in 1906. From the Wellington Journal and Shrewsbury News, 25th September 1909: "Broseley Hospital Sunday - After the church service the Madeley Town Band gave a selection of music on the Memorial Green, as well as the Jackfield Band." The old Three Horseshoes pub in Madeley Market Square was the largest pub in Madeley, and was the headquarters of the Madeley Band. In 1911 the Madely Town Prize Brass Band was refused the right to bear the title "Royal"
Madron British Legion Band (Cornwall)
Maerdy Silver Band: Active in 1930s
Maesteg Band: Active in 1911 and 1948
Maidstone Borough Brass Band: Active in 1909
Malmesbury Town Band: Active in the 1940s
Malton Amateur Brass Band (North Yorkshire): Formed by John Gibson in 1877 and folded in 1884.
Malton Brass or Mixed Wind Band (North Yorkshire): Active between 1837 and 1855
Malton Messenger Saxhorn Band (North Yorkshire): Founded in 1857 by Henry Smithson, proprietor of the "Malton Messenger" newspaper. Made first public appearance on 16th October that year conducted by Mr Milburn of Leeds. In August 1858 played in Longster's Orchard, Malton accompanying dancers at the Malton Regatta. Some of the original bandsmen included Will Foster, Hardwick Spurr, John, George and Thomas Leefe, John Morrit, John Stamper, John Bull, Tindal Clarke, John Hudson, Robert Taylor, Bob Piercy and Tom Allison. In 1860 the band was conducted by Mr Jennison of Norton and was renamed the Malton Rifle Volunteers Band. John Gibson became conductor in 1862 and served until 1877, when he left to form his own band, Malton Amateur Brass Band. The band was then conducted by JF Drake until Gibson's return in 1884. In 1887 a revolt among the band led to a mass resignation from the Volunteers and the band was restyled the "New Malton Town Band". JW Marshall was conductor of the band in 1899 and the band was still in existence in 1902.
Malton Rifle Volunteers Band (1): See: Malton Messenger Saxhorn Band
Malton Rifle Volunteers Band (2): Formed in 1894 until it disbanded in 1899
Malton Temperance Band (North Yorkshire): Formed in 1899 by William Gibson, with eleven players, including Tom Banks, Jack Haykings, Ernest Cartwright and Tom Tate Smith. In 1900 the band announced that it would henceforth be known as the Malton White Star Band - which still exists today.
Malton United Brass Band: Founded in 1857 by William Turner. Active in the 1860s, conducted by Welford Gibson
Malvern Imperial Band (Gloucestershire)
Malvern Tramways Band (Melbourne, Australia): Although not strictly speaking extinct, as it is still in existence as Stonnington City Brass, this band's heydays in the 1920s, following its formation in 1911, is worth recording here. Contest record: 1912, won all events in the A.N.A. Competition, Collingwood. 1913-14, winners A.N.A. Competition. Winners of all events Chamber of Manufacturers Contest. Second Prize South Street Ballarat. 1915, Ballarat, tied for First Prize Grade A Championship. Winners Highest Aggregate and Boosey Shield, value 75 guineas, Second Quickstep. 1917, Winners of all events A.N.A.A. Championship, Melbourne. Also O'Brien and Down Cup, value 100 guineas, for Highest Aggregate. 1918, Winners A.N.A. A Grade Championship, Melbourne, and winners of Grand Final for O'Brien and Down Cup, value 100 guineas, for Highest Aggregate. 1920, Winners South Street Championship A Grade and Boosey Shield, value 50 guineas. 1921, Winners South Street Championship A Grade and Boosey Shield, value 50 guineas - Second Year. 1922, Winners A Grade Championship, Ballarat, 3rd successive year and Grand Final, Boosey Shield, value 50 guineas, Highest Aggregate.
In 1924 the band embarked on a World Tour. Also in 1924, during the visit of H.M.S. Hood to Melbourne in March, "The entertainment began at 2.15 with a recital by the Malvern Tramways Band, renowned as 'the champion brass band of the Commonwealth'. The Age suggested that their recital would give the public 'the opportunity of comparing and contrasting the all-brass band with the military band'. Originally, it had been intended for the Malvern men to provide a musical escort as the massed bands from the Hood, Repulse and Delhi proceeded to the Ground. However, it was not 'found practicable to arrange' for this, so the idea was dropped. It was a fortunate move. The afternoon was 'a day of sunshine, coloured parasols and summer dresses' that drew a massive crowd of eager visitors to the Hood and the other ships at Port Melbourne. The bandsmen were unable 'to get through the dense mass of people' at the pier. As a last resource, mounted police had to clear the way. When this was done, the bandsmen made with all speed for the MCG. Thus, for once, the navy was late. In the meantime, the musical flag was kept flying by the Malvern Tramways Band. Once they arrived 'by motor', the sailors provided 'a fine program ... and every item of the bands won applause' from the crowd of 24000. At the end of the day, with gate receipts totalling Ł820, the Lord Mayor (and Melbourne Cricket Club member), Councillor William Brunton, expressed his appreciation to the bandmasters. "
1911 - Celebration of Malvern being proclaimed a City: "Crowds of visitors, from neighbouring suburbs, came to see the display. From half-past six o'clock until half-past eight o'clock the trams, and trains, were overcrowded. On the tram cars the passengers were seen to be hanging precariously to the sides of the cars. The night was a bitterly cold one, but the adverse conditions did not affect the spirits of the people, exhilarated as their spirits were, by music of the Malvern Tramway Band, the Prahran Band, the St. Kilda Band, the Kilties' Band, and the St. Vincent de Paul's Orphanage Band. The units of the crowd, estimated at 40,000, were well content to have formed one of those abroad to see the sights, in the streets, on this memorable night, in the City of Malvern."
Manchester C.W.S. Tobacco Factory Band: See C.W.S. (Manchester) Band
Manchester Civil Defence Band: Active in 1945
Manchester Jewish Brass Band: Began as an activity of the Jewish Working Men's Club. Active in the 1910s/20s
Manchester City Police Band: Active in 1880s
Manea British Legion Band: Competed in the Crystal Palace Championships in the 1930s
Manningham Brass Band (Bradford): Active in November 1885 when it entertained the 7,000 crowd at the opening of a new stand at the Carlisle Road gound of Manningham Rugby Club. They were conducted by W. Atkinson at the Barnoldswick Contest in 1886. Later, in 1896, it serenaded the 8,000 crowd prior to the vital Rugby League game between Bradford City and Hull on 18 April.
Manningtree Brass Band (Essex): Took part in Great Bentley Brass Band Contest on 18 April 1938.
Manningtree British Legion Band: See: Manningtree Brass Band
Manor Colliery Band: Active in the 1970s
Mansfield Brass Band
Mansfield Colliery Silver Prize Band: Led the 44th Annual Temperance procession on Whit Monday in 1915. Starting from Somercotes, a sea of banners, flags and gaily decorated floats proceeded through Leabrooks and Riddings, gathering strength as it marched, and parading the village of Ironville before winding its way up to the Jessop Monument in Codnor Park.
Mansfield Excelsior Band: Newspaper report from 25 May 1900: Celebrations for the relief of Mafeking inluded the display of Union Jacks outside shops, the wearing of patriotic favours by almost everybody, the playing of patriotic tunes in front of the Town Hall by the Mansfield Excelsior Band around 10pm, followed by an impromptu late-night
Mansfield United Brass Band: Mansfield Reporter - newspaper report from 6 July 1877: "Roller Skating Rink ..... The Mansfield United Brass Band was also present and contributed much to the pleasure of the proceedings by playing a selection of dance and operatic music." As well as providing a skating area, the rink had another area where other entertainments took place. It opened on 24 June 1876 and closed sometime in the latter part of 1881.
Manvers and Barnburgh Band (Rotherham): Competed in the Grand Shield in the 1940s - probably linked to the previous Manvers Main band and the twin collieries of Manvers and Barnburgh.
Manvers Main Colliery Band (Wath-on-Dearne, Rotherham): Competed in the Crystal Palace Championships in the 1930s
Mapplewell Band (Yorkshire)
Marazion Town Band (Cornwall): Active in the 1930s and 1940s
Mardy Workingmen's Brass Band (Glamorgan): Active in 1904
Mariners Band (Keighley): See: Keighley Brass Band
Market Lavington Prize Band (Wiltshire): Gained 3rd place in a contest at the West Lavington Flower Show in August 1913, with the South of England Temperance Prize Band (1st place, conductor Mr. John Green), Chippenham Silver Prize band (2nd place), and Gorse Hill Prize Band. The adjudicator was Mr. J. G. Jubb of Manchester.
Market Rasen Town Band: Active in 1880s it eventually disbanded in 1939. A successor band was formed in 1966
Markfield Band: See: William Davis Construction Group Band
Marks Tey Brotherhood Band: Active in the 1930s, the band folded during WW2. For more details, see Grandad Played The Cornet: A History of Brass Bands in North East Essex, by David Cawdell.
Marlborough Silver Town Band: Records of the band, from 1895-1948, are held at Wiltshire and Swindon Record Office
Marley Hill Colliery Band (Gateshead): See: Marley Hill Silver Prize Band
Marley Hill Silver Prize Band (Gateshead): Formed in 1890. One of the founder members was John Bewick, a colliery blacksmith. He was born at Highfield near Hexham in 1856 and came with his parents to Old Sunniside in 1860. At the age of 12 he began work in the engine sheds at Andrews House colliery where he stayed for 6 months before serving his apprenticeship as a blacksmith. He subsequently worked for 57 years in this trade for J .Bowes & Partners. Still active in 1939, the band rehearsed in Sunniside.
Marriner's Band: Formed in the 1840s by the worsted mill owner WL Marriner, in Keighley, the band competed in the 1861 Crystal Palace contest with the alternate name of "the Band of the 35th Rifle Volunteer Corps" and won the Sydenham Cup. In the 1862 contest they were styled WL Marriner's Private Brass Band, and used two flugel horns in their line-up. Subscriptions were collected from the members in the early years. They won the Daily Mirror Cup at Crystal Palace in 1909 and were incorporated into Keighley Borough Band in 1914.
Marsden Colliery Band (Whitburn, Sunderland): Formed in the 1850s as South Shields Temperance Band, it folded in 1930 and its instruments were bought by Dinnington Colliery Band.
Marsden Colliery Prize Band: See: Marsden Colliery Band
Marsden St Andrews Band (Whitburn): Formed in 1930 by some bandsmen from the previous Marsden Colliery Band, probably did not last beyond 1939
Marsden Senior School Band: Active in the 1930s/50s
Marsden Secondary School Band: See: Marsden Senior School Band
Marston Valley Band: Records of the band, from 1951-56, are held at Bedfordshire and Luton Archives and Record Service
Martley Foresters Brass Band (Worcestershire)
Maryport Silver Band: Active in the 1930s/40s
Maryport Town Brass Band: Active in 1891 when it took part in a concert with Workington Vocal Union Voice Choir
Massingham Crown Brass Band
Matlock United Silver Prize Band: Active in 1914. Possibly related to the current Matlock Band?
Matlock Volunteer Rifles Band: Active in the 1860s
Mawgan Band (Cornwall)
Maybole Burgh Band (Ayrshire): Originally Maybole Carrick Band, then Carrick Instrumental Band. In 1867 the band instruments were taken from the local bandsmen, because they would not attend practices, and given to the Volunteers who formed a band among its members, and although for a time it was factually a military band it was always considered the Maybole band. About the turn of the century the instruments were returned to the Council and the Maybole Burgh Band came into existence before the first World War. It won many competitions under the leadership of Mr. Shaw, the Bandmaster, and played in the town and district for many years until, again through lack of young people attending practices, in the 1950s the Council took over the instruments and stored them away and the town was left without a band. It was hoped some townsmen interested in band music would come forward and another band be formed but this was not to be and, as the instruments were deteriorating in storage, the council sold them. By coincidence the council purchased scarlet and ermine robes for the Provost and Bailies about the time the instruments were sold and it was the ribald belief of many ratepayers that the council had robbed the band to robe their civic heads and that it was the sale price of the big drum which went to buy the Provost's cocked hat.
Maybole Carrick Band,: See: Maybole Burgh Band
Mayfield and District Band (Sussex)
McKiernan Group Band (Accrington): Active in the 1970s
Medomsley Cottage Homes Band (Deaf Hill, County Durham): Cottages built by the North Eastern Railway. The band was formed in the 1900s.
Medstead Band (Hampshire): Active around 1905. The Band's activities were suspended for the first world war and then resumed. Band members are thought to include Dick Licence and Mr. Poole the drummer. The Band was under the auspices of the Medstead Friendly Society.
Meersbrook Band (Sheffield): Active in the 1960s
Melbourne Baptist Band (Derbyshire)
Melbourne Brass Band (Derbyshire): Existed as early as September 1845, when they played to celebrate Lord Melbourne's arrival at Melbourne Hall, and in 1856 when they celebrated the end of the Crimean War. In 1860 they were commended at the great National Brass Band Contest at Crystal Palace. The Band was on the verge of signing up to sail with a ship to the Baltic in 1855, when wives and girlfriends intervened at the last moment and stopped them. A member of the Melbourne band once joined the travelling band that accompanied Wombwells Menagerie, a kind of Victorian "zoo on wheels". The band probably disbanded around WW1.
Melbourne Town Prize Brass Band
Melling Band (Lancashire): Centred on Melling Pottery and was made up mainly of pottery workers.
Membury Silver Band (Devon): Active in 1936
Merbein Brass Band (Sunraysia area, Australia): Founded in 1918
Mere C.E.T.S. Brass Band (Wiltshire)
Mere Town Silver Band (Wiltshire): Records of the band, from 1924-1987 are held by Wiltshire and Swindon Record Office
Merryston Brass Band (Coatbridge?)
Merthyr Vale Silver Band
Messrs. Philips & Co. Brass Band (Tean, Staffordshire): Active in 1896, this band was connected to the Philips Silk Mill at Tean, where they made red ribbon, among other products, and which was the origin of the phrase "tied up in red tape".
Metheringham and Dunston Brass Band (Lincolnshire): Active in 1905 when the band heralded the football teams onto the field in a match. The music played for the home team was "See the conquering heroes come", while they then played the opponents, Washingborough, in to "The Dead March" from Saul
Methley Brass Band: Active in the early 1900s
Methley Prize Band: See: Methley Brass Band
Metropolitan Brass Band (London?): From the News of the World, 12th September 1886: Railway Servants' Fete and Gala - Yesterday afternoon, the first annual fete and gala of the Metropolitan Railway Company's employees was held in a field near the Metropolitan Railway Station at Harrow, lent by Mr Atkins. The entertainments comprised an Old English Fair, athletic sports and a firework display. The Metropolitan Brass Band and the Willesdon Brass Band played selections of music. There was a large attendance.
Metropolitan Works Band (Wolverhampton): Note from local newspaper in 1927: - "Masses in harmony at the Molineux: After a hard week at work what better way to relax at the weekend than by tickling the tonsils with a little community singing in the open air at Wolverhampton's Molineux Grounds in January. Swanee River, Land Of Hope And Glory and There's A Tavern In The Town, echoed across the streets as townsfolk raised their voices accompanied by the prizewinning Metropolitan Works Band, under the direction of Joseph Lewis and Harold Casey. Before hitting the high notes, the singers were given a few helpful hints by Mr Lewis. He emphasised that everyone must join in and they must all sing together. He told the gathering that he wasn't using a baton because the crowd wouldn't see it. Instead, his associate Harold Casey , would give the necessary "physical jerks" to help the singers harmonise. Printed on the Community Singing sheet were instructions to "take a deep breath" and hold it. According to Mr Lewis the gathering must sing with the breath HELD to make more sound - and they must not get out of step with the singing. Mr Lewis promised the crowd that if they got into a mess he would blow a whistle for them to stop. Presumably if they were still holding their breath they would be in no fit state to singalong-a-Lewis. " Still active in 1938.
Mevagissey Band (Cornwall)
Mexborough Plant Band (South Yorkshire): Formed in the 1860s, reformed in the 1880s and still active in the 1890s. It was based with the Mexborough railway works for the Manchester/Sheffield and Lincolnshire Railway - later the Great Central Railway.
Mexborough Railway Band: See: Mexborough Plant Band
Mexborough Town Band (South Yorkshire)
Micheldean Town Band: Formed in the 1890s and folded in 1914
Mickleton Band (County Durham): Formed in the early 1900s and still active in 1931
Mickley Tyndale Temperance Band (Northumberland): Formed in 1899 and still active in 1947
Middlesbrough (Dovecot) Brass: See: Yarm and District Band
Middlesbrough Artillery Band: Active in 1887
Middlesbrough Borough Silver Prize Band: Formed in 1901 as the Middlesbrough Trades Band. Still active in the 1950s
Middlesbrough National Reserve Band: Active in the 1930s
Middlesbrough Temperance Band: Formed in 1898
Middlesbrough Trades Band: See: Middlesborough Borough Silver Prize Band
Middleton Home Guard Band: Active in 1942
Middleton Junction Public Band: Active in the 1930s
Middleton Victoria Silver Prize Band (Middleton by Wirksworth, Derbyshire): "We had then the Middleton Victoria Silver Prize Band, around thirty men and youths were in it and Joe Sam Spencer, who lived two doors below me, used to train the new starters how to play a cornet or other instrument. He was the conductor of the band and of our chapel. At the last Sunday School Anniversary he conducted he said it was the best singing he had heard for some time. Middleton Band was well known years ago and used to play at the Baseball Ground when Derby County Football Club played at home, several friends used to walk round the ground at half time with a white sheet collecting money for band funds."
Won the Spondon Contest in 1926, conducted by H. Holmes
Middleton-by-Wirksworth Band: Active in 1937
Middleton-in-Teesdale Band: Active in 1887
Middlewich Centenary Band: Active in 1951 when they won the 4th section North West regional championships at the Victoria Hall, Bolton.
Midhurst Town Band (Sussex): Active around 1905, and through to at least 1961.
Midland & South Western Junction Railway Band (Cirencester)
Milburn's Band: Active in the 1850s
Milburn's Model Band: Active in the 1900s
Mildura Methodist Church Brass Band (Sunraysia area, Australia): Founded in 1906
Mile End Band (Essex): See: Myland Band
Miles Platting Mission Band (Manchester): Active during the 1930s and 1940s
Millgate Amateur Brass Band (Facit, Rochdale): Active in 1885. Wound up in the courts as of 14th February 1921
Millwall Iron Works Band: Active in the 1860s, associated with the Millwall Iron Works, Ship Building & Graving Docks Company Ltd.
Milnrow Public Band (Rochdale): Active in 1930
Milnsbridge Socialist Band: Active in 1933
Milton & Ashley Temperance Band (Hampshire)
Minchinhampton Town Band (Gloucestershire): Formed in 1860, it played in and around the Cotswolds until it folded in the mid 1920s. A brief history of the band is available in the booklet - History Of Minchinhampton Town Band by Trevor G. Picken (1977)
Mirfield (British Railways) Brass Band (West Yorkshire): Formed 1946
Mirfield Silver Band: Active in the 1950s
Mirlees Works Band (Hazelgrove, Stockport): Formed in August 1949, disbanded in 1980. Also known as the Mirlees Blackstone Works Band.
Mitcham Band (Australia): Formed in 1878 and rehearsed in the Mitcham Institute. The band functioned until the Tee Tulpa Gold Diggings were found in 1887, when it disbanded and all the members took their instruments and other property with them and disposed of them in any way they wished.
Mitchell's Main and Darfield Band (Yorkshire)
Moderna Blanket Works Band (Halifax): Formed in 1949 as the Cragg Vale and Mytholmroyd Band
Moel Tryfan Brass Band: Active around 1910
Moira Colliery Band: Competed in a brass band contest at Overseal, Leicestershire in July 1921, under conductor Jas. Astle (drawn 7 of 11 bands, they were placed 2nd)
Monk Bretton Band (Yorkshire)
Monk Bridge Works Band (Leeds): Played at the celebrations for the laying of the foundation stone for the Holbeck Mechanics Institute, in March 1858
Monkland Brass Band (Gympie, Australia): Active in 1904
Monktonhall Colliery Silver Band (Midlothian): Formed in 1918, it was then registered as a competing band in 1921 as "Prestonlinks Colliery Silver Band". Early bandmasters/conductors include John Hay, a well-known name in the music 'industry' locally, whose son Ian (who was taught in the band) went on to become a professional musician and Head Teacher of Music at Preston Lodge High School. The pit closed in the early 1960's. The band then became known as "Prestonpans & District Silver Band" until the sponsorship from the Monktonhall Colliery came along. Merged with Dalkeith Burgh Band in 1989
Monkwearmouth Colliery Band: Active in 1861
Monkwearmouth Lodge Band: See: Hylton Colliery Silver Band
Monmouth Battalion Band, 3rd: See: 3rd Monmouth Battalion Band
Monotype Works Band (Redhill?): A Monotype Band featured in a film made in 1958 of the Brockham Green Medieval Festival.
Monsanto Chemical Works Band: Active in 1951
Monsanto Silver Band (Wrexham)
Monway Iron Works Band (Birmingham): Active in 1873
Moree & District Band (Australia): Formed in 1888, disbanded - ? A successor band was formed in 1947.
Moria and Donisthorpe Band
Morland Moderna Band: See: Moderna Blanket Works Band
Morley Brass Band: Active in 1886
Morley Parrock Nook Anthem Prize Band (York): Active in 1906
Morley Prize Band
Morpeth Borough Brass Band: Active in 1901 (when a silver matchstick holder was presented by the band to J.W. English)
Morpeth V.B.N.F. Band: Active in 1889
Morris Concert Band: See: Morris Motors Band
Morris Motors Band: Formed in 1924 from employees of Morris Motors it grew from its recreational beginnings to become a leading band under the guidance of Harry Mortimer. Founded as part of William Morris' welfare drive, it soon started entering national competitions, winning the Crystal Palace Grand Shield in the 1930s. A signature tune, The Morris March, was written for them by Beresford, which is featured on a programme of 1926. The band was temporarily disbanded at the beginning of the Second World War, reviving in 1943 to play to workers in the factory canteen. Between 1946 and 1955 the band went from strength to strength under the leadership of its inspirational conductor Harry Mortimer, becoming one of the country’s leading brass bands. During its long career, the band made over 500 radio broadcasts and several television appearances, also performing at folk dances, in music halls and in park bandstands. Changed name to Morris Concert Band round 1972-3 and back to Morris Motors in about 1979.
Some reminiscences from Stephen Bourne, who played for Morris Motors in the 1970's and early 80's: There were strong ties to the Ercol Furniture Band throughout this time through the resident Conductor Walter Rees who was musical director for Ercol and also with Witney Sliver Band through Peter the baritone player, who conducted Witney. Whenever Witney or Ercol did a gig you could guarantee a fair numbers of Morris Players would be amongst them. I travelled to and from London in the car with Harry Mortimer (or HM as he preferred) every Monday and Wednesday for rehearsal in the band room at Morris Factory. We did many concerts as part of the famed "Men O'Brass" mass bands of Fairey, Fodens (or City of Coventry for a while) and Morris. There are still a number of recordings of this massed band around today. Morris Motors last appeared in the National Finals at the Royal Albert Hall in 1981 , when the Test Piece was Blitz (I still remember learning it - unpleasant - give me some Vinter or Ball any day). We regularly appeared on "Friday Night is music night!" live from the Golders Green Hippodrome on Radio 2. Robin Boyle from Radio 2 who compared the show was a friend of HM's. As a result HM managed to get him to compere the British Open, then held in Belle Vue Manchester. I was an official in those days, responsible for taking lunch to the adjudicators and organising distribution of programmes. The Open contest was stopped for an hour between bands because of an IRA bomb threat, I think in 1978 (I could be a year out) but continued afterwards. I do remember the challenge of keeping the adjudicators out of the way. The demise of the Morris band occurred in Harry's later days. The motor works had offered jobs and time to rehearse to players during the bands heydays (50's and 60's) and there was a strong Welsh Mafia in the band (or "tafia" as it became called). By the late 70's band though, moving to Oxford to work in the now stricken car industry was not a very attractive proposition. Around this time, and certainly until 1980, there were still no women in the band and, believe or not, no women were allowed on the band bus. This was true at Fairey and Fodens too. I remember the shock when City of Coventry came to their first Men of Brass with women in the band. In 1981 the first lady joined Morris' and the "old guard" were unhappy about it. Funny now to even think about such a World just 28 years ago.
Morrison and Busty Collieries Band (Annfield Plain, County Durham): Formed in the 1920s. Competed in the Crystal Palace Championships in the 1930s. Renamed as Consett Brass in 1974.
Morrison Busty Colliery Band: See: Morrison and Busty Collieries Band
Morrison Busty Lodge Band: See: Morrison and Busty Collieries Band
Morriston Band (South Wales): Actually founded in Bristol by an English family named Hanney. The band bodily moved into Wales in the 1860s. A rival band was formed by the local Welshmen which resulted in a private contest in 1875. The "English" band won and went on to absorb its rival.
Morvah Band (Cornwall)
Morwenstow Band (Cornwall)
Mosborough Band (Yorkshire): The Worksop Journal reported that on Whit Monday 1856, when three Friendly Societies formed a procession, three Bands took part. After the procession to the Parish Church and Divine Service, they dined at various hostelries. The Old Abbey Club dined at the Corn Exchange where Mr Marshall of the Greyhound Inn catered for 240 persons. The Mosbro' Band attended and played appropriate airs after each toast. The Golden Ball Friendly Society dined in their large room.... and the Sherwood Rangers Band contributed to the pleasure of the day. The Wheat Sheaf Club dined at the club room of the Wheat Sheaf Inn, and the Sutton Brass Band very much delighted the Society with their performances.
Moss Bank Prize Band (St Helens): Active around the 1900s
Mossiface Band (Victoria, Australia)
Mossley Destruction Prize Band: Active in 1906
Mossley St John's Band: Active in 1980
Moston and Beswick Band: See: Streetfold Band
Moston and Beswick Manchester Band: Formed in 1919 as the Streetfold Band, later known as Street Fold Methodist Band, Streetfold Prize Band, Moston Band, Moston and Beswick Band (1965-2000). It folded in January 2006. Along the way it amalgamated with the Beswick Prize Band in 1965, and then with Chain Bar Methodist Band in early 1980s. See: Streetfold Band
Moston Band: See: Streetfold Band
Moston Brook Band (Manchester): Active in 1979
Mostyn Hall Band: Active in 1920s
Motherwell and Wishaw Band: Active in 1933
Motherwell Town Silver Band: Report from the Motherwell Times, Friday 14th. June 1901: "The New Masonic Halls - Laying the Memorial Stone. .......... (after the ceremony's close). Thereafter the company was again arranged in processional order, and proceeded by way of Muir Street, Milton Street, Calder Street, and Merry Street to the Town Hall, where the Lodge was closed in due form. The bands which accompanied the procession were the Coltness Silver Band, and the Motherwell Town Silver Band both of which more than maintained their reputation for first class music.
Report from Livingstone, 17th September 1904: - The next item of importance was the laying of the Memorial Stone of the Public Library in Clyde Street. On this occasion there was a joint Lodge of St. John DaIzell, No. 406, and Lodge Livingstone St. Andrew, No. 573, with Brother Alexander Findlay, M.P., M.M. Lodge Irvine St. Andrews, No. 149, acting as Right Worshipful Master. The Office-bearers were selected from the R.W.M.s., P.M.s, Wardens and Brethren of both Lodges. The Brethren met in the Lodge-room, then paraded the principal streets (headed by the Motherwell Silver Band and Coltness Silver Band)
Moulton Band (Cheshire): Active in the late 1950s/early 1960s
Mount Tabor Band (Long Eaton): Active in the 1920s
Mount Tabor Mission Silver Band (Long Eaton): See: Mount Tabor Band
Mountain Ash Band: Active in 1905
Mousehole Band (Cornwall)
Mottram and Broadbottom Band
Mow Cop Band (Cheshire): Active in 1867
Much Hadham Brass Band: Active in 1925
Much Wenlock Band: Began in 1900 and survived until the Second World War.
Muirkirk Parish Silver Band: In 1923, in a band contest at Douglas, they won both the March and the Selection pieces. John Johnstone, who died in 1951, was teacher and conductor of the Band for the long period of 26 years, and many bandsmen had their first "blaw"under his firm but helpful guidance. The Band folded before the 1950s.
Mulbarton & Swardeston Brass Band (Norfolk): Active in 1914
Multitubular Brass Band: See Newbie Engineering Works Multitubular Brass Band
Mumbles Silver Band: Disbanded around the time of the First World War. Reminiscences of Margie Bowden: "Now my two youngest brothers were in the Mumbles Silver Band. They used to call it Bob Todd's Band as he was the leader. What we liked to do was to walk with the band, when they marched the solders to Church. We used to look forward to Sunday. But the Mumbles Band did not last much longer, as one of the boys was called up then another and so there were not many left in the band and it finished up with solders joining in to make enough to get them to church. We just used to have some wonderful tunes in those days but, in 1914, it was spoiled for us. My two brothers, Alfred and Ernest, were called up and joined the navy and never came back."
Munn & Felton Works Band: Formed in 1933 - the original name of the current Travelsphere Holidays Band
Myland Band (Essex): Active in 1905 when the bandmaster was H. Wheeler, and also in 1911
Mynyddygarreg Silver Prize Band (Carmarthenshire): Formed 1909. Competed in the 1964 West of England Regional Championships (3rd Section), conducted by D.T. Gravelle
Myrtle Silver Band (Liverpool): Active in 1933

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Nafferton Station Mills Band (Yorkshire): 1903 reports in the Driffield press: Saturday June 20 1903, "Members of Sir Tatton Sykes' Lodge of the Hull District of Druids celebrated their seventh anniversary at Wetwang. The Nafferton Station Mills Band played the members to church, where the Rev Ingham preached a sermon. The membership of the Hull district was 9,806." August 8 1903, "Wansford played host to an athletic and aquatic sports event. Only competitors from Wansford and Cattleholmes were entitled to take part in the athletic events, but the aquatic events were open. The aquatic events were the highlight of the day, with Mr J Cawthorn winning the greasy pole event and taking home a leg of mutton. A swimming match from the bridge to the Trout Inn was entered by seven competitors. After the sports, the villagers enjoyed a fireworks display and music from the Nafferton Station Mills Band."
Nailsea Glass Works Band (Somerset): Active in 1869
Nantwich Band (Cheshire): Competed in the very first British Open in 1853, conducted by T. Hassal.
Nantwich Town Band (Cheshire): c.1878 -1936. A non-contesting band that performed at local events, primarily parades, garden parties and charity events. It was wound up in 1936 and little exists of the band but memories.
Nantymoel Town Band (Bridgend): Active in 1964
Naphill Brass Band (Buckinghamshire): A founder member and conductor of the band was Albert George Parslow, who was also Bandmaster of the Wycombe Excelsior Band (later known as High Wycombe Town Silver Band)
Nassington Brass Band (Lincolnshire)
National Fire Service Band (Easington): See: Easington Public Band
National Fire Service Silver Band (37 Area): See: North Kent Silver Band
National Fire Service Western (No.1) Area Band: The Band Association constitution, minutes and correspondence, 1943-1944, are held in the Glasgow City Archives
National Reserve Band (Barnsley): Based at the National Reserve Club, Harbourgh Hill Road, Barnsley - now closed.
Nayland British Legion Band (Essex): Formed in the mid 1930s by some breakaway members from the Boxted Methodist Band following a contesting disagreement. Took part in the Colchester Carnival in 1936/37/38, conducted by H Taylor
Nazebottom Temperance Prize Band
Nefyn Silver Band (Caernarfonshire)
Nelson Band: Nelson Band or later Nelson Prize Band was formed in 1862 and practiced in a room at he back of the old Nelson Inn, now the Lord Nelson Hotel. By 1873 the band was boasting that in the previous four years it had won 476 pounds 19 shillings in prize money and that its services were required at every public function. Unfortunately, the band and Town Council did not always see eye to eye. In 1894 Nelson band was engaged to play classical music in Victoria Park. On seeing a youthful audience they suddenly began playing popular tunes of the day, an alderman objected and the concert was abandoned. Later in the 1890's the band disbanded only to re-form in 1898 as Nelson Old Band.
Nelson Old Band: Formed in 1898 from the remnants of Nelson Band. It's practices were first held near the Prince of Wales Inn and later in a room on Ann Street. In 1920 the band acquired Clifford House and became a social club as well as a brass band. During this period the band had many contest successes regularly competing at the famous September contest at Belle Vue in Manchester. The Old Band, however became more of a social club than a musical association and the band split from the club forming two new bands. Nelson Temperance Band was short-lived. The second band, Nelson Silver Prize Band, lasted until 1956.
Nelson Prize Band: See: Nelson Band
Nelson Silver Prize Band: Resulted from a split of the Nelson Old Band into Nelson Silver Prize Band and the short-lived Nelson Temperance Band. It opened a social club on Albert Street which once again led to the bands demise (as with the Nelson Old Band). In late 1956 financial problems forced the closure of the club and the folding of the Nelson Silver Prize Band, leaving Nelson once again without a band. A new band, still active, was formed later in 1957 as the Nelson Civic Band.
Nelson Temperance Band: Short-lived, this band resulted from a split of the Nelson Old Band into Nelson Silver Prize Band and the Nelson Temperance Band.
Nenthead Brass Band: Active in 1905
Nether Wallop Band
Netherton Colliery Band (Bedlington): Active between 1904 and 1939
Nettlefolds Band (Smethwick, Birmingham): Active around 1900. Nettlefolds were a large company making screws, later were part of Guest, Keen & Nettlefolds Ltd.
Neville Brass: Amalgamated with Davis Derby Brass Band to form Derwent Brass in 1992.
New Becontree Silver Band
New Brancepeth Colliery Band: See: Sleetburn Colliery Band
New Brompton and Gillingham Boys' Band: Active in 1906
New Cross Railway Mission Band: Active in 1908
New Cumnock Band: Formed 1860, still active in 1964, conducted by J Connell.
New Cumnock Silver Band: See: New Cumnock Band
New Fancy Colliery Band (Gloucestershire): Formed 1890s
New Haden Colliery Silver Prize Band: Active in the 1920s ? in concert, 2 December 1925, at Cheadle Town Hall
New Herrington Colliery Band (near Sunderland): Formed in the 1900s. Became a military style band after the First World War.
New Holland Brass Band (Lincolnshire)
New Humerstone Band (Leicestershire): Active in 1964, conducted by C. Hutt
New Malton Town Band: Formed in 1887 by John Gibson, following a revolt in the local Volunteers band, when the army imposed "unacceptable restrictions" on the volunteers. Folded in the early 1900s.
New Mills Band: Active in 1873
New Mills Band (Cornwall)
New Mills Old Band: Active in the 1930s/40s
New Milton and Ashley Temperance Band (Hampshire)
New Monckton Colliery Band: See: Royston New Monckton Colliery Institute Band
New Redheugh Colliery Band: See: Redheugh Colliery Band
New Tredegar and Tirphil Silver Band
New York and District Band (Northumberland): Formed in the 1900s but folded during WW1
Newark Borough Band: From the Newark Advertiser, May 21 1902 - "For the 29th time in its history, the Newark Football Club has promoted an athletic sports meeting on Whit Monday at Newark, and to the long series of successes another must be added. The ground was gay with streamers, and the Newark Borough Band, under Mr Carle, enlivened the assemblage with some excellent and inspiring music."
Newbie Engineering Works Multitubular Brass Band (Annan): Formed in 1901, later known as Annan Town Band and disbanded in 1954. A successor Annan Town Band was formed in 1961
Newbottle Colliery Band (Philadelphia, Sunderland): Active in the 1890s
Newbridge Brass Band (Cornwall)
Newbridge Institute Band (Monmouthshire): Active in 1948
Newbrough Band (Northumberland): Active in 1864, when they played at the Hexham Flower Show in September
Newburgh Brass Band (Fife): Active in 1909
Newbury Colliery Band (Somerset): Active in 1894
Newbury Town Band: Active in 1938
Newcastle and Gateshead Railway Band: Formed in 1925, still active in 1947 when L.N.E.R. took over.
Newcastle City Police Band: Formed in 1930 and still active in 1948
Newcastle Corporation Transport Band: Formed 1907 as the Newcastle Tramways Band. Competed in the Crystal Palace Championships in the 1930s. Still active in 1947
Newcastle East End Band: Formed in the early 1900s
Newcastle Industrial (Engineers) Band: Formed in the 1900s
Newcastle Locomotive Works Band: Active in 1865 when they were invited by Mr George Robert Stephenson to spend the 1864 Christmas holidays with him on the Isle of Wight, when they played various concerts alone and also in conjunction with other bands on the island.
Newcastle People's Band: Active in 1914
Newcastle Royal Brass Band: Active in 1890
Newcastle Tramways Band: See: Newcastle Corporation Transport Band
Newchurch Band: Active in the 1870s
Newcraighall Colliery Band
Newent Town Band (Gloucestershire)
Newhall Celebration Band (Staffordshire): Active in the 1890s
Newhall Excelsior Band (Staffordshire): Active in the 1890s
Newhall St John's Band: Active in 1905
Newhaven Silver Band
Newlyn Band (Cornwall)
Newmains Band: Formed in 1845 and, up to 1886 when it amalgamated with Cambusnethan Band, it had attended 9 contests netting 6 prizes worth £30.
Newmarket Brass Band (County Cork): Active in 1905
Newmarket Town Band: Active in August 1902 when it entertained the King of Barotseland during his visit to Dalham. A successor town band was formed in 1947.
Newmilns Burgh Band: Formed in 1833 by a group of handloom weavers, and until 1990, when it amalgamated with Galston Burgh Band and Loudoun Band, it was the oldest band in Scotland still using the same name
Newnham Brass Band: Formed in 1884, disbanded around 1905
Newnham Town Band: Formed in 1909
Newport Pagnell Town Band: Thought to have finished c. 1976. The band used to rehearse at the Bull Public House and were conducted for many years by Jack Williams.
Newport Rolling Mills Band (Middlesborough): Active in 1894
Newton Aycliffe Town Band: Formed in 1950, later renamed Aycliffe Brass Band in 1984. Merged with Brancepeth Welfare Band to form the new Aycliffe & Brancepeth Band
Newton Engineering Works Band (Somerset?): Active in 1893
Newton Heath Band: See: British Aerospace (Chadderton) Band
Newton Green Methodist Band
Newton Moor Public Band (Newton, Manchester)
Nine Mill Point Colliery Band (Wales)
Norfolk Broads Brass: See: Fleggburgh Brass
Norland Brass Band: Formed in 1877, disbanded in 1937. Records of the band (1905-1928) held in Halifax Public Library
Norland Prize Band: See Norland Brass Band
Norman Memorial Youth Silver Band (Blackpool)
North Ashton Prize Band (Wigan): Active in the 1950s to 1970s. In 1951 they competed in the 4th section North West regional championships at the Victoria Hall, Bolton.
North Ayrshire Band: Formed in 1975 as North Ayrshire Schools Band, later North Ayrshire Youth Band, finally North Ayrshire Band, it disbanded in 2005, passing on their instruments to Hillfoots Music for Youth and Kings Park Brass. The band led an active and fairly successful life, touring Germany and Switzerland 6 times as well as making a number of radio and television appearances. In the 1980s they won the Scottish Youth Championship 3 times, coming 4th at the Royal Albert Hall in 1981. They won the Scottish 4th Section contest at their first attempt in 1994 and were second in 2000. Members of the band won the Strathclyde schools quartet championship on no fewer than 10 occasions and the Scottish schools quartets 5 times.
North British Locomotive Company Band (Glasgow): Active around 1910
North Evington Working Men's Club and Institute Band: Active in 1928, conducted by Mr S. Brown. Competed in the Crystal Palace Championships in the 1930s, still active in 1939.
North Hill Band (Cornwall)
North Kent Silver Band: Formed in April 1940 as Bexley A.F.S. Brass Band and, in 1942, became the official National Fire Service Band for London, being known as the National Fire Service Silver Band (37 Area). Adopted the name of North Kent Silver Band in 1945.
North Lancs (Chorley) Band
North London Excelsior Silver Prize Band: Active in 1908 and 1928.
North Manchester Silver Band: Active in 1951 when they competed in the 4th section North West regional championships at the Victoria Hall, Bolton.
North Marston Village Band (Bucks)
North Middlesex Silver Band: Formed around 1911 at Enfield's famous Royal Small Arms Factory. The band wore a colourful military-style uniform, and before the Second World War enjoyed success in marching competitions and band contests, including fourth place at the National Championships. Merged with the Enfield Band after WW2, and renamed the Enfield Co-op Band in 1977. The Enfield Band also enjoyed success before the war, playing for the crowds at White Hart Lane. After the war, the North Middlesex Silver and Enfield bands merged, and in 1977 became the Enfield Co-op Band.
North Mundham Brass Band (Sussex)
North Mymms Brass Band: Active around 1900
North Ormesby Band (North Yorkshire): Formed in 1898, still active in 1911
North Parade Band (Halifax)
North Seaton Colliery Band (1): Played for the launching of the new Newbiggin lifeboat in January 1866, and the Woodhorn and Newbiggin Poultry and Pigeon Show in July that year. Presumably folded prior to 1905.
North Seaton Colliery Band (2): See: Seaton Hirst Excelsior Band
North Seaton Workmen's Prize Band: See: Seaton Hirst Excelsior Band
North Shields and District Band: Active around 1900
North Shields N.E.R. Band: Active in the early 1900s
North Skelton and District Band: Formed in 1969, in 1984 they were renamed North Skelton (British Steel) Band, then subsequently British Steel Company North Skelton Band, Teesside Brass and finally British Steel Teesside Band, folding in the late 1990s
North Skelton Band: See: Teesside Temperance Band
North Skelton (British Steel) Band: See: North Skelton and District Band
North Skelton Silver Band: See: Teesside Temperance Band
North Staffordshire Concert Band: See Royal Doulton Band
North Yorkshire Iron Works Band (Stockton?): Active in 1874
Northallerton Band: Formed in the 1900s, still active in 1936. Probably folded during or after WW2
Northallerton Borough Band: Active in 1875
Northallerton Temperance Band
Northampton Imperial Prize Band: Played as part of the celebrations for the visit to Northampton of His Majesty King George V and Her Majesty Queen Mary on Tuesday the 23rd September 1913 - at the racecourse and at Cow Meadow.
Northampton Temperance Silver Band: Played as part of the celebrations for the visit to Northampton of His Majesty King George V and Her Majesty Queen Mary on Tuesday the 23rd September 1913 - at Cow Meadow and Calvesholme
Northampton Town Band: Used to rehearse at the Fanciers club in Northampton and were conducted for a time by Jock Ward.
Northfield Prize Band: Active in 1912
Northfield Silver Band (Birmingham): Active in 1938
Northleach Town Band: Formed c. 1890
Northowram Subscription Band (Yorkshire)
Norland Band (Yorkshire)
Norton Brass Band (North Yorkshire): Active in 1881 when it was conducted by the founder of Malton United Band, William Turner. The band folded in 1888
Norwood Children's Home Brass Band: Active in the 1920s. The home was located at Elder Road, West Norwood.
Norwood Mission Band: Active in 1910
Nottingham Borough Band: Active in 1887
Nottingham Comrades Band: Competed in a brass band contest at Overseal, Leicestershire in July 1921, under conductor William Blackburn (drawn 8 of 11 bands, they were not placed)
Nottingham Co-operative Band: Competed in the Crystal Palace Championships in the 1930s
Nottingham Rifle Volunteers Band, 4th: See: 4th Nottingham Rifle Volunteers Band
Nuneaton Borough Band: Active in the early 1900s. Amalgamated with Burbage Silver Band in 1989. As the band rehearsed in Hinckley it kept the name Burbage Silver Band.
Nuneaton Excelsior Band: [Newspaper report on the new Nuneaton Manor Hospital] - "Despite all the planning, the silver key had not arrived by the opening ceremony on the 20th September 1893 and Mr. James Tomkinson had to open the front door without it. After several long speeches those present were invited to have tea and look around the building. To do so they had to pass two nurses in uniform, one with a tray for donations and the other with a book in which to enter annual subscribers. When the hospital opened there was still a shortage of funds and consequently only four of the eight beds on each ward could be used. The minute book of the Management Committee details the costs of the opening ceremony, including ś4 12 shillings for the Excelsior Band - a high cost when one considers that a trained nurses annual salary was ś25."
Nutgrove Band (St Helens, Lancashire): Active in 1927 when it gave a concert in Chester.
Nuthurst Band: Played in Horsham before the 1847 election
Nutshalling Brass Band (Nursling, Hampshire)
Nutley Band (Sussex): Records of the band, from 1914-1931 are held by East Sussex Record Office

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Oakdale Band (Wales): Active in 1951
Oakengates Town Band: Broke up around 1968
Oakenshaw Band (Brancepeth): Formed in 1899, and still active in 1931
Oakleigh and District Brass Band (Australia): The Band was formed in 1910, rehearsing first in a coffee shop on Dandenong Road. In the 1920's the Football Club Pavilion was the venue for band practice. It folded during World War 2
Oakley Brass Band: Took part in the Second South Yorkshire Brass Band Contest, at Nether Hall Park, Doncaster, on 25th June 1860
Oakley Quarry Brass Band: Active in 1952
Oats Royd Mills Brass Band, Midgley: Originally the Luddenden Old Band, it assumed the name of Oats Royd Mills in 1864 when becoming connected with the firm of Messrs. John Murgatroyd and Sons who owned the Mills. Records of the band, from 1864-1891 are held by West Yorkshire Archive Service, Calderdale
Odham's Press Band (London): Formed in 1937 and originally conducted by George Thompson, latterly of Callenders Cable Works Band. Renamed The People Band (Odhams Press) around 1957, it folded in 1961. See Whatever happened to Odhams Press Band?, by Chris Helme - British Bandsman, 5441, 27 January 2007, pp.8-9
Ogden's Tobacco Works Band (Liverpool): Active in 1893
Ogmore Valley Temperance Band: Active in 1942
Okehampton Borough Band
Old 22nd Association Home Guard Band (Tunbridge Wells)
Old Bathgate Town Band: Active in 1873
Old Boys Band, 41st: See: 41st Old Boys Band
Old Fletton Victoria Prize Band: The band, almost to a man, joined the 1st Huntingdonshire Battalion en block, in 1914, and formed the Huntingdonshire Cyclist Battalion Band. They were under the direction of the Fletton Bandmaster Sgt. Joe Hackney.
Old Heath Band (Essex): Active in 1905, when the bandmaster was C. Chamberlain. The band did not survive WW1.
Old Keresley & Coundon Silver Band (Coventry)
Old Moss Band (Holmfirth): Folded a few years prior to 1908, when some of their instruments (and players) formed the basis of the Hade Edge Band
Oldbury Brass Band (Birmingham): Active in 1910
Oldbury Carriage Works Band: 1863
Oldham Brass '97: Formed in 1997 by the amalgamation of Cobden Chadwick Band and Lees & Glodwick Band and disbanded in 2004. Remaining members helped to form the new Oldham Band (Lees)
Oldham Postal Band: Active in the 1930s
Oldham Rifles Band: Instituted in 1865 as a local band and was appointed to Oldham Rifles in 1871
Oldham Road Brotherhood Band: Active in 1938
Oldham Wing Band: Active in 1945
Oldpark Silver Band (Belfast): Originally a flute band formed in the 1920's, it changed to brass in 1952 after a heated meeting in the band room in Avoca Street (off Clifton park avenue). The changeover went ahead as it was believed the players would gain a better knowledge of music playing brass instruments. The band amalgamated with Ashgrove Brass Band in 2000.
Ollerton Brass Band
Ollerton Colliery Band (Nottinghamshire): Active in the 1950s. Also known as Ollerton Colliery Silver Prize Band
Openshaw Lads' Club Brass Band (Manchester): Founded 1892. Joseph Frith, who worked as a carpenter for Droylsden Council, joined the voluntary staff at the Lads' Club in 1892 when he was asked to start a brass band there. He remained as it's bandmaster until 1922. He gave up 2 evenings a week and a Sunday afternoon for band practice. Highly successful, the band won many prizes in festivals and competitions. A Mr Tucker, born in 1902, lived in Openshaw. He started his musical career by learning to play the cornet at Openshaw Lad's Club where he was allowed to hire a cornet for 5d a year.
Openshaw Original Band: Active in 1933
Ore Village Band (Hastings): Active in 1913. Ore was a village taken into the Borough of Hastings as the town expanded but tried to retain its identity and even today is refered to as the village by the locals.
Orillia Silver Band (Ontario, Canada): Active as early as 1950, but folded in the late 1970s. A successor band, started by a few old members, was founded in 2003.
Ormonde Colliery Band (Derbyshire)
Orpington and Crays British Legion Silver Band
Orpington Silver Band: Founded in 1925, it converted to concert band format some time later, and is still active as a wind band.
Orwell Band: Amalgamated with Connells Sounding Brass (Ipswich) in 1983.
Osmotherley Band: Active in the early 1900s
Ossett Borough Band: Active in the 1950s
Ossett Prize Brass Band
Ossett Temperance Band: Active in 1858
Oswald Place Mission Band (Ardwick)
Oswaldwistle Band: Active in 1883
Oswaldtwistle Subscription Prize Brass Band: Active in 1885
Oswestry Borough Band: Active in 1901 and 1948
Oswestry Excelsior Band: Active in 1948
Ouston Colliery Band (near Newcastle): Active in 1938. May have had some connection with Birtley St Joseph. There was also a Birtley and Ouston Band
Outlane Brass Band: In 1903 they cost 30/- for a concert for the Outlane Cricket Club who, in 1914, refused permission for the Lindley Band to use the field for a "Sacred Concert".
Ovenden Prize Band
Over Darwen Rifles Band: Active in 1872
Overton Band (Wiltshire): Amalgated with the Lockeridge Band in 1934 to form Kennet Vale Silver Band
Overton Brass Band (Ayrshire): Active in 1879, when it took part in a procession in August to inaugurate the Kilmarnock Burns Monument and Kay Park, accompanying the Foresters Lodge.
Ovington Band: Founded in 1862. Merged with Tyneldale Band in 1980 to form Ovington Tynedale Band
Ovington Tynedale Band: Founded 1980, Folded 2003. Ovington Tynedale Band was the result of a merger in the 1980's between Ovington Band and Tynedale Band. Seeing as both bands served a small rural area, a merger seemed sensible as both bands were struggling. Initially rehearsing at Ovington Bandroom, the band remained a 4th Section Band for several years. The sale of the Ovington Bandroom, at that time in disrepair, secured the band's financial future and prompted a move to Newburn Rowing Club. Here the band enjoyed moderate success, qualifying for the 4th Section National Finals on 2 occasions and securing promotion to the 3rd Section. Following the band's most successfrul result at the area, the long-standing MD Stuart Gray resigned. At this time several key-players also left. Combined with a long-standing lack of Cornet players, this sent the band into decline which even a move of bandroom couldn't address. After several years of struggling to find players, the band folded in early summer 2003. Several Ovington Tynedale ex-players have gone on to play and conduct at the highest level, mainly in the North East. (Source: Colin Harding)
Owston Ferry Salvation Army Band: Active around 1900
Oxford City Police Brass Band: Active in 1886
Oxford Concert Brass: Active until 1992 when it merged with Kidlington Silver Band to form Kidlington Concert Brass. Also known as Halls Oxford Concert Brass. An anecdote from John Nolan, of a concert in the 1970s: "Oxford Concert Brass was attempting (successfully in the end) to gain the respect of the 'serious music' fraternity in Oxford. Problem Three of our players, one Eflat Bass and two Troms. had somehow manages to break or injure their legs and were in full plaster casts and in one case an impressive black-eye and the odd band-aid as well. Plan A was for the Band to march on to the stage smartly and with military precision from both sides of the stage and to stand and sit in the usual choreographed manner. This to happen when the stage curtains were opened. The solution. It was decided that the smart entry would be made but that the 'cripples' would be wheeled onto the stage before the curtains were drawn. The audience seated were first treated to an introductory adulation of the band:- "Ladies and Gentlemen. The Oxford Concert Brass". The curtains were opened to reveal a stage empty except for three obvious casualties propped up in playing position. Somebody got the giggles at this bizarre spectacle and the audience descended into helpless mirth for several minutes during the entry of the rest of the band. Happily order was eventually restored and the concert was well received and rave- reviewed in the local paper"
Oxford Place Band (Doncaster): Formed around 1898, based on the Methodist Church in the town centre, and originally conducted by W.H. Tuxworth.
Oxford Rifle Band, 5th: See: 5th Oxford Rifle Band
Oxford University Press Band: Active in 1884

P
Padgate Silver Band (Warrington)
Padstow Band (Cornwall)
Painswick Brass Band (Gloucestershire): Probably originally formed in the 1830s but disbanded in the 1880s, to reform in the 1898. A local WI report in 1957 states "the band was formed with instruments purchased by a former Vicar, Mr Seddon. A start was made practicing hymns in a hut in the recreation ground, the idea being to induce people who did not go to Church to take an interest in this music, in which later, they might join with better advantage in Church. This Band has been given up of recent years to the regret of many inhabitatants." The assumption here is that the band disbanded around 1955.
In May 1899 Church Parade of members of Stroud Working Mens Benefit Soc and others, headed by the band. July 1899 the Band played where people went along "to listen to the band" followed by dancing. Band congratulated on their progress "since their formation under the conductorship of Mr Kimberley........" 19 May 1900 the Band headed procession through village to mark Relief of Mafeking. Also in May headed the procession to celebrate the Queens Birthday. Jul 1900 Procession upon receipt of news of occupation of Pretoria by British troops. Jul 1900 - two day Bazaar & Fete, events supported by Painswick String and Brass Bands. Aug 1900 Played at Tea Party for members of Primitive Methodist Sunday School. Feb 1901 - the Band celebrated their first appearance in their new uniforms at a 'fun' football match. A note at this time reports: "The Band had existed in Painswick for over 50 years under the direction of Mr Benjamin Clissold but when he emigrated the Band broke up". In 1935, for the Jubilee, Painswick Silver Band headed the procession through village streets to the recreation ground. Coronation Celebrations - Carnival Day - Painswick Silver Band led procession to recreation ground - and later in the day led a large crowd to 'The Beacon' (a local high spot) for a mighty bonfire.
[Thanks to John Bailey of the Painswick Local History Society]
Painswick Silver Band: See Painswick Brass Band
Paisley Silver Band
Palmer's Naval Band: Active in 1905
Palmer's Prize Band (Jarrow): Active in the 1900s. Associated with the Palmer's Shipbuilding & Iron Co. (Hebburn & Jarrow on Tyne). Changed its name to Jervis Band when the Palmer's shipyard closed. Probably folded in the 1950s or 1960s.
Palmer's Shipyard Band: See: Palmer's Prize Band
Palmer's Works Band: See: Palmer's Prize Band
Pangbourne Silver Prize Band: Founded in 1893 as a fife and drum band, disbanded in 1939. Successor band was formed in 1962
Parbold Band (Lancashire)
Parbold Rechabite Brass Band: The band led a procession from Bispham School in 1897 to celebrate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee. It comprised the Managers, the Trustees, Staff, Parents, children, and two gaily. decorated wagonettes containing little children. Entertainments included: Tea, Punch and Judy, Sports, and at the end bronze medals and bars were presented to each child by the Governors as a memento.
Park Street Mission Band (Gloucester)
Parkend Brass Band (Gloucestershire): Active in 1863
Parkend Silver Band (Gloucestershire): Formed in 1893 or 1895 from the existing pipe and fife band of New Fancy colliery, disbanded in 1967. Successor band formed in 1973
Parker's Brewery Band (Burton-on-Trent)
Parkfield Colliery Band (Bristol): Active in 1863
Parkgate Excelsior Brass Band (Rotherham): Active in 1910
Parkhead Forge Silver Band (Glasgow): Formed in 1918 by workers at William Beardmore & Co., Glasgow. It flourished for several years before going into decline only to rise again in the 1940s gaining the Scottish Championship title. Principal cornet in 1938 was William Summerhill.
Parr Temperance Band (St Helens): Active in 1922
Parr St Peters Brass Band (St Helens)
Partick Gospel Band (Glasgow)
Partington Public Band: Active in 1932
Partington Silver Prize Band: Active in 1896
Partington Steel Works Brass Band: Active in 1920s
Patchogue Plymouth Amoco Band: See: Crookhall Colliery Band
Patrington Brass Band: Formed in January 1857, Mr Brown being music master.
Pateley Bridge Band: Formed in the 1850s
Paul Brass Band (Cornwall): Active in 1933
Paulton Silver Prize Band (Bristol). Competed in the 1962 West of England Regional Championships (2nd Section), conducted by E.S. Brown
Paxman Standard Ironworks Band: See: Davey Paxman Standard Ironworks Band
Payne's Bristol and Gloucestershire Band (Bristol): Active in 1864, when they took part in the processions celebrating the official opening of the Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol.
Peak Dale Public Band: Active from 1930s to 1960s
Pearsons Pottery Chesterfield Band: See: Chesterfield Brass Band
Pease West Colliery Band (Crook, County Durham): Formed in 1898 at Jobs Hill Colliery. Name taken from one of the colliery owners, Mr Joseph Pease. Still active in 1919
Peasmarsh Brass Band (near Rye, East Sussex): Active in 1910. Notes from Tylden Reed: "Rehearsed in the Sunday school next to the local post office. Their larger instruments were layed out on tables at the back of the hall and I would blow into the mouthpieces and get the occasional note out of them before Sunday School started! As a small boy I used to listen to them in the evenings when I should have been in bed asleep! They were to feature in the film made in the forties called 'The Loves of Joanna Godden' starring Googy Withers, John McCullam, Chips Raferty and others made on Romney Marsh in Kent, however the band along with my Dad (Vic Reed) ended up on the cutting room floor! The film can still be seen on TV occasionally. The band gets a mention on a poster in a shop window! I cycled 3 Miles to Rye to play in that band as I had school friends there and never played in the band that got me interested in banding in the first place! I think the band closed in the 1960s."
Peckham Rye Tabernacle Band (London): Active around 1910
Peel Band (Isle of Man): Active in 1885
Pegswood Colliery Band (Morpeth): Formed in the 1890s. Later known as Pegswood Brass. Folded in 2000.
Pegswood Brass: See: Pegswood Colliery Band
Pelaw Colliery Band (Chester-le-Street): Formed in the early 1900s, still active in 1913
Pelton Colliery Band (Chester-le-Street): Formed in the 1890s, still active in 1920
Pemberton Temperance Brass Band (Wigan): Active in 1920
Pencoed Silver Band (Glamorgan)
Pendeen Independant Band (Cornwall)
Pendle Forest Prize Brass Band
Pendlebury Band: Active in the 1930s
Pendleton Old Prize Band: Founded 1878 as the British Workman's Brass Band. Won the Lancashire Association Challenge Cup in 1895 and entered 10 contests in 1899, winning 10 prizes. In 1903 they competed in the Crystal Palace contest in October winning Daily Telegraph Fifty Guineas Challenge Cup, Ł25 in money and a handsome certificate. The cup was presented at a grand miscellaneous concert at Pendleton Town Hall later in the month. Played in Victoria Park, Stretford on 13th July 1905 as part of the celebrations for the Royal Visit of King Edward VII. Took part in a St George's Day procession in Pendleton on 23rd April 1910. In June 1922, conducted by Mr O Pheasey it took part in a musical festival in aid of Salford Royal Hospital, which attracted some 30,000 people to the Castle Irwell Racecourse.
Pendleton Public Band: Active in the 1920s and 1930s. In June 1922, conducted by Mr B Powell, it took part in a musical festival in aid of Salford Royal Hospital, which attracted some 30,000 people to the Castle Irwell Racecourse.
Pendleton Public Prize Band: See: Pendleton Public Band
Penketh Tannery Band: Active in the 1930s
Penmaenmawr Silver Prize Band: See Penmaenmawr Town Band
Penmaenmawr Town Band (Caernarvonshire): Formed in the 1894. Competed in the Crystal Palace Championships in the 1930s. At one time it practiced in Hewn Hall, later renamed as the Masonic Hall in 1960, which was originally presented by C.H Darbishire to the young men of the town as a social centre. Later known as Penmaenmawr Silver Prize Band, it was still active in the 1950s.
Penrith Brass Band: Active in 1900s
Penrhyndeudraeth Band: Active in 1933
Penrhynside Band (Llandudno): Active in 1948
Penshaw Colliery Band: Formed in the 1890s
Penstow Silver Band
Pentre Brass Band (Glamorgan): Active in 1934
Penwithick Band (Cornwall)
Penzance Independent Brass Band: Winners of the Cornwall Amateur Championships, Section B, in 1926
People Band, The: See: Odham's Press Band
People's Mission Band (Cambridge): Active in 1928.
People's Mission Silver Band (South Shields): Based in Wellington Street.
People's Tabernacle Band: Active in 1906
Percy Main N.E.R. Band (near Newcastle): Formed in the 1900s, with a connection to the Percy Main Colliery, still active in 1914
Perfection Soap Works Band: See: Crosfields Perfection Soap Works Band
Perscoran Brass Band: Formed in 1983, disbanded in 2003
Perth Masonic Band: See: Perth Silver Band
Perth Silver Band: Formed in 1861 as Perth Masonic Band, later known as Perth Trades Silver Band, disbanded 1958. Successor band formed in 1972.
Perth Trades Silver Band: See: Perth Silver Band
Peterborough Band: Active in 1905
Peterborough Borough Silver Prize Band: Active in 1910
Petersfield Borough Band: See: Victoria Brass Band (Petersfield)
Petersfield Brass Band: See: Victoria Brass Band (Petersfield)
Petrockstow Band: Active in 1887 when it celebrated Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee. In this account as remembered by Samuel Bonifant in 1935, aged 84 years. "At the time of Queen Victoria's golden jubilee Samuel Bonifant was living at Woodhouse part of Little Marland, he was a member of the committee and master of ceremonies on the day. At this time Petrockstow had a population of 440. All the parishioners were given luncheon and tea in the school room consisting of roast and boiled beef, pickles, bread, mineral water for Teetotallers and children. 1,000 bottles of mineral water were available for the event. Each man was allowed 1 quart of beer in the afternoon, while women and children had mineral water. All invalids in the evening were sent a good plate of beef, a loaf of bread, cake, Ľ lb tea and a quart of beer. The next day any left over food was distributed to the poor. Sam recalls the day it started early at 5.00am Mr William Trace climbed to the top of the church tower and played God Save the Queen on Sam's Violin with in 1935 Sam still had. At 8.00am the bell ringers started ringing the peals, which went on throughout the day. At 10.00am a majority of the parishioners formed outside the school with the Reverend Field and Sam and with the Petrockstow Band leading marched to the rectory and back to the church for a short service preached by the Reverend Field. At midday lunch was served in the school room with the band playing outside. After lunch at 2.00pm a procession formed with band to the field opposite the Barn on Town Farm, Mr John Brookes farmed the farm, on the field sports and dancing took place. There was a break at 4.30pm for Tea in the school room. The tables were presided over by Mrs Field, Mrs Brookes (mother of Mr John Brookes) also Mrs Bussell, Mrs Leonard, Mrs Pike, Mrs Squance, Mrs Bonifant Mrs Sanders and others. Mrs Brookes presented the children with mugs. After Tea they returned to the field for more sports and dancing until 9.00pm when the fireworks and bonfire were to take place. Lord Clinton Lord Lieutenant of the County donated the bonfire and fireworks. The order had been given that no bonfire was to be lit until the Lord Lieut gave the signal by sending up three rockets in succession, red, white & blue in the most conspicuous parts near the mansion and his Lordship chose Petrockstow. It was a grand sight, which was seen from a long way off, after the rockets had gone many bonfires were lit. The day ended with the band playing God Save Queen, everyone had enjoyed themselves and the day had been well organised."
Pevensey Silver Band: Merged with Hastings Borough Band in 1968 to form Sussex Brass
Philadelphia Colliery Band (Washington, County Durham)
Philips & Co. Brass Band (Tean, Staffordshire): See: Messrs. Philips & Co. Brass Band
Phoenix Brass Band (Rotherham): See: Steel, Peech and Tozer Phoenix Works Band
Phoenix Works Band (Rotherham): See: Steel, Peech and Tozer Phoenix Works Band
Pickering Band (North Yorkshire): Formed in the 1890s, folded in the 1950s
Platt Bridge Band (Manchester): Competed in a contest in Leigh in 1884. A report from the Wigan Observer And District Advertiser, Wednesday, September 3, 1890, states: On Wednesday afternoon last the remains of William Forster were interred at Abram Church. The deceased, who was 41 years of age, was checkweighman at the Low Hall Collieries. He had been a hard worker for the Miners' Union, and was much esteemed by that body of men. He had also been a member of the Platt Bridge Brass Band for over 20 years. The weather was fine and the streets were crowded with spectators. The procession was as follows:- Twenty pit brow girls; 150 miners; band committee; Platt Bridge Brass Band (assisted by a few friends from the Wigan Volunteer Band), playing "Dead March in Saul;" deceased, with instrument on coffin; mourners and relatives. At the commencement of the service Mr. C. D. Mortimer with his usual ability played Guilmant's "Funeral March," and at the close the "Dead March in Saul." After the burial service in the churchyard, the band played very sweetly at the grave side, "It is well with my soul."
Another report, from 1895, notes the band at a festival: "The first Lower Ince and Spring View Rose Queen Festival was held under the auspices of St Mary's Church in June 1895. It was organised by Maggie Briggs and Edna Harrison. About 500 children dressed in historical costumes, and accompanied by the Platt Bridge Brass Band, left St Mary’s School and paraded through the streets of Lower Ince and Spring View, which were lined with hundreds of spectators. The Rose Queen was Miss F Briggs, in a dress of white silk with a train of flowered shot silk trimmed with white silk ribbon and swansdown. The parade ended in a field in the grounds of Westwood House, where there was dancing around the maypole and the Rose Queen was crowned by the vicars wife, Mrs Taylor. Each of the children was given a bun and an orange."
Platt Brothers Moston Colliery Band: See: Platt's Moston Colliery Band
Platt's Moston Colliery Band: Active in the 1940s
Platting Public Band: Active in 1887
Plean Colliery Band (Stirlingshire): Active in 1928, conducted by Charles Wright
Plymouth Brass: Formed in the 1980s. Merged with Tavistock Town Band in the late 1980s to form Tavistock Brass
PMG Heart of England Band: See: Heart of England Band
Pogmoor Band (South Yorkshire): Merged with the Cawthorne Brass Band in 1984
Polton Mills Band (Loanhead): Won the Scottish Championship title in 1904 and disbanded at the start of World War 1
Polypipe (Rossington) Band: See: Rossington Colliery Band
Pomfret Victoria Brass Band (Pontefract): See: Pontefract Victoria Brass Band
Ponden Band (Haworth): Active in 1854, founded by John Heaton of Ponden. The band had the job of playing at a celebration in Haworth at the conclusion of the Crimean war.
Ponders End Mission Band (Enfield): Active in 1905
Pontefract Borough Band
Pontefract Victoria Brass Band: Active in 1900
Pontyberem Band (Wales): Active in 1948
Pontyclun Brass Band: Active in the early 1900s
Pontyclun Silver Band: In 1914 Mr Godfrey Clark presented a Silver Cup for competition in the Silver Band contest which was won by the Pontyclun Silver Band. When the people left the sports field on this occasion they were greeted with a placard "War declared on Germany". The band regularly practised in a wooden hut at the end of School Street called the Ping Pong Hall. The village supported a Brass Band also.
Pontycymmer Town Band: Competed in the Crystal Palace Championships in the 1930s, still active in 1948
Poole Town Band (Dorset): Active in 1928 when conducted by Mr E.L. Green.
Poolsbrook Miners Welfare Band (Chesterfield)
Poplar & Bromley Tabernacle Band
Port Talbot Town Band: Competed in the Crystal Palace Championships in the 1930s.
Port Talbot Workmen's Prize Band: Played at the ceremonial opening of Port Talbot Memorial Park on the 27th June 1925 at 3p.m.
Porth & Cymmer Silver Band (Porth Rhondda)
Pontrhydyfen Band (South Wales)
Portland Social Centre Band (Dorset)
Portmadoc Band: Active in 1928 and 1933
Portmadoc Town Band: See: Portmadoc Band
Portmadoc Volunteer Brass Band: Active in 1887
Portobello Ex-Members B.B. Band (Edinburgh): Active in 1928, conducted by Thomas Williamson.
Portsmouth Bluejacket Band: Competed in the Crystal Palace Championships in the 1930s
Possilpark Brass Band (Glasgow): Active in 1928, conducted by W. Curtis
Potters Bar Town Band: Formed in the 1850s and then disbanded in 1895. Band of the same name later formed in 1948
Potters Wood Kingswood Hill Bristol Silver Band: See: Kingswood and District Band
Potterspury Excelsior Prize Brass Band: The village band was in existence in the late 1800s, and in 1904 entered a contest organised by the Gentlemen of Dunstable. The band travelled to the contest on a horse-drawn cart and won the first prize - a silver plated cup. The contest was never held again, so the band held the cup which is now kept with the church plate for safe keeping. Between the wars, in the summer, the band would give regular Sunday evening concerts on the green by the cross-road on Watling Street, opposite the Anchor pub. Band practice was held in the Cock club room (now the restaurant). A popular story of the time related how, arriving late for practice one night, one of the bandsmen was so impressed with the sound of his colleagues playing that he went into the practice room and said, 'That sounds great - come outside and listen'. Whereupon they all put down their instruments and went outside! The band ceased to play during the Second World War but started again in 1946. By 1953, with Reg Atkins as conductor, the band was very active, playing at numerous village fetes in the area and leading church parades for Remembrance Sunday services, when they would march four abreast via Sanders Lane, Blackwell End, Watling Street, High Street and Church Lane (with no parked cars in the way!). Another old village tale recalled that when Pury band marched by the pigs were sat on the wall to listen. (This tale was well known in all the surrounding villages!) The Coronation parade through the village in 1953 was led by Syd Holloway pushing a model of 'The Pig on the Wall'. There was of course much rivalry between Pury and Yardley bands and Pury used to say that one Christmas when Yardley Band went round playing carols they played outside one 'house' where the collectors could not find the door. They walked round it several times before they realised it was a hay rick! [Note: similar stories are told of Stinchcombe Band and Woodchurch Bands]. As the number of bandsmen from the village dwindled, more and more had to be transported to practice from the surrounding area. By 1961 it became beyond the financial means of the band to continue to transport the players to practice and the band had to close down. Some of the bandsmen went on to play with Wolverton Band and the remains of the band's funds were paid over to the Parish Council for the general benefit of the village. (Source: Potterspury - the story of a village and its people)
Potton Brass Band (Bedfordshire): Active around 1904
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