Exciting news for young musicians across the Wolds as the East Riding Youth Brass Band officially relaunches this week.
The band’s first rehearsal will take place on Friday 27thFebruary from 5pm-6pm at Nafferton Village Hall, marking the beginning of a new chapter for youth brass music in the area.
The youth band welcomes all players under the age of 21, regardless of musical ability or precious experience. Complete beginners are warmly encouraged to come along and give brass and percussion instruments a try. Rehearsals will take place on the second and fourth Friday of each month, providing regular opportunities for young people to develop their skills in a supportive and friendly environment.
The relaunch follows a successful seven-week free music lesson course hosted by the Driffield Silver Band, which helped spark renewed interest in brass and percussion playing among local young people. This initiative was generously funded by the Do It For East Yorkshire Community Grant, supported by East Riding Council, demonstrating a strong commitment to keeping community music thriving in the region.
Leading the Youth Band will be Alistair Hull, an experienced conductor and musician who brings enthusiasm, expertise and a passion for nurturing young talent.
For adult learners or those returning to music later in life, the Driffield Community Band rehearse every Friday from 6pm to 7.15pm at Nafferton Village Hall. Just like the youth band, the community band is open to all ages and abilities, with complete beginners very much welcome.
Instruments can be borrowed from both of the bands, making it an easy and affordable way for anyone to get started on their musical journey. For transparency, the youth band has a monthly subscription fee of £4, while the community band subscription is £8 per month. To ensure affordability for families, households pay a maximum of £16 per month, with any additional household members able to attend free of charge beyond that threshold. A discressionary hardship fund is also available and can be discussed, in confidence, with either the musical directors or any committee member.
With affordable fees, instrument loans available, and a welcoming atmosphere for all abilities, the relaunch of the East Riding Youth Brass Band promises to bring music, friendship and opportunity back to young people across the Wolds.
For those interested in joining, simply come along to either a youth band or community band rehearsal – new faced will be greeted with a warm welcome and plenty of encouragement. Alternatively, you can email the band using admin@driffieldband.com where a member of the committee will be able to give you further information.
