Band’s anniversary celebrations soured (From Malvern Gazette)

Band’s anniversary celebrations soured

9:00am Sunday 15th January 2012 in News By Tarik Al Rasheed

PREPARATIONS for a local marching band’s 30th anniversary celebrations are being soured by concerns that its 30th year may also be its last.

Falling numbers and ongoing difficulties recruiting new members mean that Upton Youth Band is in very real danger of closing down after successfully competing on the local and national stage for three decades.

Recruitment problems have affected both senior and junior sections, with the seniors unable to compete for the last two years as they have not had enough numbers to put on a satisfactory show.

Helen Lane, the band’s director, said: “The band has represented the town for 30 years, endeavouring to better the sound and ability of our musicians and there have been a lot of fun times and new friends made along the way.

“Now we need people from seven years of age to step forward and become part of the newly named ‘Upton Youth Band Performing Arts Group’. Even if you don’t want to perform but think you can offer support or help with fund-raising, please get on board and help us keep music alive.”

The band has enough instruments for at least 42 people to play, as well as separate equipment for 20 people to dance with flags, sabres and rifles.

“We don’t want to see all of these instruments, uniforms and equipment go to waste, or worse still to a skip,”

said Mrs Lane.

It is hoped that there will be a swell of interest before the band’s 30th anniversary party takes place at the Bluebell Inn in Ryall Grove on Friday, February 3.

All previous members, helpers and anyone who has been involved with the band are invited to join in the celebrations.

Further information about the event and joining the band can be found at uptonyouthband.com.