‘Dynamic Brass’ band seeks new members

‘Dynamic Brass’, the musical brainchild of conductor and musician Harold Whan and musician Patricia Evans, will be, as the name suggests, a dynamic, ambitious new band designed to bring together people of all ages to establish, develop, educate, maintain and promote the concept of brass band music for the benefit of the local community and beyond.

Harold and Patricia, who both attended the School of Music, have a deep love of brass band music and they are keen to share that passion with others. Harold, who also plays the trombone, has worked with many bands, including Bruce Hamilton, Hillsborough Silver and Banbridge Silver, as well as supporting Rathfriland, Poyntzpass and Armagh Old Boys.

He currently conducts Kilkeel Silver, which won their section at the Brass Band League Contest last October for the first time in thirteen years.

Patricia has been playing music since she was just eight years of age. She was a member of Hillsborough Silver Band and currently plays with Poyntzpass Silver, as well as supporting Rathfriland and Banbridge Silver Bands. “Brass bands are in my family,” explained Patricia, who plays both the tenor horn and the cornet. “My father, who was also a member of Hillsborough Silver, inspired and encouraged me from the age of eight through his love of brass bands. It is something I am very passionate about.”

The new band will be launching at Low Quarters Hall on the Ballinderry Road in Magheragall on Thursday, April 18, at 8pm and Harold and Patricia are encouraging anyone with an interest in music to come along and find out more about the band.

“Have you ever been part of a musical group or any band but stopped playing some years ago?” asked Harold. “Would you like to be part of a team to provide cross community entertainment and enjoy a social atmosphere? Do you fancy a new challenge? Do you have a child that plays a cornet or trumpet or any other silver or brass instrument who would like to join a junior or senior band? If any of these apply to you then you must be interested!”

The highly acclaimed First Old Boys Brass Band will be helping to launch the new band by performing a concert on the night.

Harold, who is the Chairman of the new band, as well as its conductor, will also give a presentation on the vision for the future of the band.

‘Dynamic Brass’ rehearsals will start on Thursday, May 2, from 7.30pm until 9.30pm each week.

Anyone interested in finding out more about the band or who would like to attend the concert on April 18 is asked to email [email protected] to confirm attendance. Supper will also be provided.