Brass band in Godalming since 1937
Our Youth Band is the lifeblood of our organisation, helping to tutor and encourage the next generation of musicians through lessons and playing together in a fun and educational group environment. The group includes children from around age 7 to 17 at a wide variety of abilities.
We feel that music-making through groups is of great educational value and individual development, so we welcome children who have never picked up an instrument before through to more experienced players.
We have a team of volunteer tutors who provide lessons on a Monday evening while the Youth Band rehearses, and who can teach your child how to play a brass instrument until they’re ready to join the band.
We’ll typically start by trying a range of instruments to find one that suits your child, unless they already play a little or have a preference. Since the techniques and fingerings on our brass instruments are largely the same, it’s possible to change or try out other instruments later too.
While we don’t prescribe a minimum age, it’s usually best to wait until your child has their second set of front teeth. Both our introductory lessons and loan of an instrument is included for all band members.
The band meets for rehearsals every Monday evening during term time from 6pm to 7.45pm at our own rehearsal room on Broadwater Park in Farncombe.
The music we play in the Youth Band encompasses a wide range including some from the classical composers through to present day music from the shows and films as well as that of the more popular pieces.
Membership is £12 per term, which includes loan of an instrument if desired.
Please speak to us in cases of hardship, as we wish to make music accessible to all. Our organisation is also supported by fees from the engagements the bands play, tickets at concerts, donations etc.
Our Youth Band fulfils a few public engagements each year, which gives us a goal and the chance to play to an audience while not being a large commitment.
Our Musical Director and individual tutors have enhanced DBS checks in place, plus all band members and helpers are supported by our band’s safeguarding policy and culture.
We encourage you to read our Safeguarding Policy and share it with your child, as it includes details on who to contact if you or your child have any concerns.
If you would like to bring your child along to try an instrument, for lessons, or to join the band, please do get in touch.
Our team can be contacted by email at youthband@godalming.band.
