Malvern Chase Brass Band
The Malvern Chase Brass Band is a non-competing community brass band that was formed in 1968. Originally the Chase School Band, the band retains strong links with the school and rehearsals are held in the Art annexe on Mondays from 7pm to 9pm. It is a registered charity with the aim of teaching both young and older people how to play.
As well as the main band, there is a term time training band that meets between 6.30pm and 7pm on Mondays, that is open to new and developing players of all ages. They offer free basic tuition and instrument loan. Band membership is also free for those in full time education.
The band provides other musical opportunities for the local community. With the assistance of a grant from the Elmley Foundation, they have sponsored a term’s brass tuition for two classes at Great Malvern Primary School. It has also held a Come and Try a Brass Instrument session and has supported youth music events at The Cube.
Each December, the band fundraises for a local charity by playing carols at locations around Malvern. A different cause is selected each year with the aim of supporting those that create local impact and which the band believes will most benefit from the donation. Last year more than £1,200 was collected for Heartstart Malvern.
The main band currently has 38 members, ranging in age from 14 years to over 80. Some have more than 60 years of playing experience while others are adult learners, often starting to learn along with their child. All that is required is enthusiasm and sufficient playing ability to keep up in rehearsals, to approximately Grade 4 standard.
The band’s repertoire is varied. It ranges from traditional marches and classical compilations to pop and film music, with an emphasis on fun, upbeat pieces. During the summer, the band performs at many venues locally, including Bands in the Park in Droitwich and Worcester, fetes at Malvern Wells and Madresfield and at Pershore Midsummer Brass.
If you are interested in learning a brass instrument, joining the main band or booking them for an event, you will find more details on their website mcbb.uk