A BOROUGH music group celebrates 50 years of performing this year.
Woodley Concert Band (WCB) is putting on a programme of music to celebrate half a century of playing at their next concert.
“It’s a real celebration of the band’s history, music-making and a golden anniversary,” said Cathy Hughes from WCB.
“People will be able to hear music by George Gershwin (I Got Rhythm, and Someone to Watch Over Me) and Marvin Hamlisch (What I Did for Love, and One from A Chorus Line).
“We’ll also be playing Jupiter from Holst’s Planets Suite, and a performance to a Pageant by Philip Sparke, originally commissioned by the band to celebrate our 40th anniversary ten years ago.”
Woodley Concert Band’s founder members met in 1973 at evening music classes held in Waingels Copse school.
The following year WCB was formed, has thrived, and currently has around 45 members.
“The standard has continued to rise and, under the leadership of our current MD Claire Lawrence, the band has twice gained a platinum award at the National Concert Band Festival.”
The group regularly performs across Berkshire, playing a wide variety of music from films, musicals, jazz and pop, along with pieces from the modern wind band repertoire.
They aim to provide enjoyable music-making for musicians as well as to entertain audiences.
The celebration concert will feature soloists, and a special performance with former band members.
The group says it will be an enjoyable and memorable evening with something for everyone.
Their 50th Anniversary Concert takes place at the Harriet Walter Theatre, Reddam House School, on Saturday, October 19, at 7:30pm.
Tickets cost £14 for adults, £12 for over 65s, and £5 for under 16s.
People who have never attended a Woodley Concert Band event before can apply for free tickets.
For more details, and to book, visit: www.woodleyconcertband.org.uk
