Author Archives: Gavin Holman

The village of Grimesthorpe, near Sheffield, had a number of brass bands, the main Grimesthorpe Brass Band being reasonably successful on the contest stage from the 1890’s to WW1. This band should not be confused with the more famous Grimethorpe … Continue reading →

During the 19th century, many travelling entertainment shows criss-crossed the country as they thrilled audiences with their various acts. Circuses, menageries, waxworks and minstrel shows usually had a band attached to them to provide exciting music, drawing in the punters … Continue reading →

The St John of God Hospital at Scorton, near Richmond, North Yorkshire, closed in 2002. It had been founded in 1880, by the Hospitaller Order of Saint John of God, to care for the “unwanted”, known then as cripples and … Continue reading →

A few years ago, on a trip to Bath, I visited the local record office to view any documents on brass bands. A receipt for the hire of oil lamps and an account sheet for a charitable concert led me … Continue reading →

Recently I came across a cabinet card photograph of a young-looking cornet player. No name was attached to the card, merely the details of the photographer – F.W. Vidler (manager) – the London Photographic Co. Ltd., 48 Langler Road, Kensal … Continue reading →

Anston Brass Band (North Anston, Yorkshire) First known in 1895, conducted by George Ross. Also known as Aston Anvil Brass Band and, in the 1930’s, as Anston [United] Silver Band. After WW2 it was conducted in turn by Robert Ross … Continue reading →

Royal Tunbridge Wells has had a number of bands over the years. The Tunbridge Wells Brass Band was active from the 1840s to the 1900s – probably folded during WW1. The Tunbridge Wells Electric Temperance Brass Band (a.k.a. Tunbridge Wells … Continue reading →

Around 1860, when the army Volunteer Force was established in Britain, a number of the rifle and artillery companies raised brass bands (and drum & fife bands) to accompany their parades. At the same time, the Police Force was starting … Continue reading →

As an unofficial temporary archivist for brass band material (i.e. until a National Brass Band Archive is re-established), I was approached by Gordon Stanley to safeguard some photos of his grandfather’s band that he no longer had room for. We … Continue reading →

Eynesbury & St Neots Brass Band had three incarnations. The first was certainly active in 1862 and lasted until around 1870. A successor band was formed in 1875, with its first public concert on Monday 17th April 1876 at the … Continue reading →