Why I... play in brass bands
"It’s a common perception that we are all a bunch of geeks. Maybe we are but I do think it is a great source of friendship and promotes life skills."
I come from a family of brass players and I started playing the cornet aged just seven.
My great-great grandfather, a granite quarryman, helped establish the Creetown Silver Band in 1880. To date, there has always been a member of my family in the band.
I have played with Renfrew Burgh Band for around 10 years. Being part of the community has allowed me some incredible experiences. I played at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and at Dumfries House for The Queen at a garden party. I also performed when Scotland played Tonga, who performed their own version of the Haka ceremonial dance, which was quite a sight.
Members of a brass band are expected to be committed to rehearsal time, as well as personal practice at home. Families and spouses need to be fairly understanding.
The benefits of free music tuition in schools are far reaching – studies have shown the positive impact musical tuition has in young people and in other areas of education. But tutor numbers have halved in the last 10 years. Sadly, it is being left to volunteers to educate. With the red tape, it can be a battle to promote brass band education to the next generation.
I want to continue enjoying playing as much as I have for the last 20 years and to promote the world of brass bands. It’s a common perception that we are all a bunch of geeks. Maybe we are but I do think it is a great hobby, source of friendship and promotes life skills such as focus, determination and discipline.
The worst times are when key members of a band move on – it unsettles the band and morale can suffer as a result. It takes time as a team to regroup.
Being part of a band that gels, performs well together and also enjoys each others company is an amazing feeling. Performing well gives an adrenaline rush and sense of achievement.