History

The 1st Chandlers Ford Boys’ Brigade Band was formed in 1961 as a Trumpet and Drum Band, providing music for parades and ceremonial occasions and then in 1972, it changed to a full Brass Band and 40 years on the Band is still an enthusiastic and thriving group. The membership is a diverse range of people encompassing an all age “family” atmosphere. Our membership fluctuates annually but we have a strong unit of 35 young people and adults ranging from 8 to maturity which meets weekly.

Annually we undertake about 40 engagements a year ranging from fetes, fayres, concerts, tours, radio broadcasts, music festivals and church services. We are also an active member of the BB National Brass Band Association traveling twice a year to venues around the UK helping to raise the profile of the BB nationally.

The Band has been involved in many events and concerts for charitable causes, particularly for NCH Action for Children, and has combined with other Bands, to give concerts. We have also played at: Legoland (UK and Denmark); toured in the UK and overseas; played before Royalty on many occasions; trained with the Royal Marines and RAF for special events; and some members recently have been able to partake in Master classes with famous Brass Bands such as Grimethorpe and Black Dyke. 

In recent years we have been involved in some prestigious events: the annual baton ceremony between BB HQ and Barmoral; music at Hillier’s Gardens; the 125th Birthday of the 5th London Company (the oldest BB company in England); and celebrated our own Golden Jubilee.