Keele University
Brass Band
History
Keele University Brass Band is still a relatively new band, providing musicians unique performing opportunities. It is the only ensemble on the university campus that compete nationally, and through the music choice and uniform players feel they're playing with a 'proper' brass band. During its short time, the band has managed to pack a lot in, and there are big plans for the future!
The band was formed in 2010, to allow brass players at Keele to participate in the newly formed UniBrass contest. From this, the band also participated in several other contests during 2011, including the Northern Open brass band championships in the fourth section.
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Through the next few years, the band reduced the scale of it's competing schedule, focusing solely on the UniBrass contest, and taking part at the Whit Friday marches in Saddleworth when a big enough band was available.
The band also started making a name for itself through concerts both on and off campus. These helped to raise the profile of the band, as well as raising funds too. It is with these funds that the band was able to obtain a set of banding jackets in 2013.
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It was in that year that the new logo was produced, allowing the band to create its own brand, leading to items such as polos, ties and online publicity.
Throughout the 2015/16 academic year, there was a big push to increase the profile of the band, through the use of online services as well as partnering with several other bands, groups and organisations. This included a joint concert with the world famous Foden's band, as well as a band tour to Wales.
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The band were also fortunate to secure funding from the Music Department at Keele for a permanent conductor. This has all helped to increase the number events the band performed at, and naturally the band finances as well.
The band improved on their UniBrass ranking in 2017 coming 3rd in the Shield section and winning 'Most Entertaining Band'.
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The band now feel they have established a base on which they can build on for future endeavours. The band now has a secure membership, and the size of the committee has expanded hugely since its formation, a testament to how many people want the band to succeed!
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The future is bright, and the band welcome you to be a part of it.