From a new band to one of the largest in the country
Wantage Silver Band was founded in 1972. In its first fifty years it grew from a single town band into one of the largest brass band organisations in the United Kingdom, with more than 200 members in 2023. The name ‘silver band’ follows a long brass band custom, from the silver-plated instruments that bands bought when they could afford them.
Many bands under one roof
The organisation now runs a family of groups for players at every level. Three contesting bands compete in the graded brass band sections, and in 2023 they were playing in the fourth, first and championship sections. Alongside them are a non-contesting community band, a beginners’ and youth training band, a big band, a percussion academy and an oompah band for festivals and parties.
The bands play concerts and events around Wantage and the villages, and travel to contests across the country.
How brass band contesting works
British brass bands compete in graded sections, from the fourth section up to the championship section, and move up or down according to their results at regional and national contests. Having bands in three different sections at once is a sign of a large and healthy organisation, because it gives players a route from their first contest to the highest level without leaving the town.
Band halls
The band’s first hall is on Tugwell Field in Wantage. As numbers grew it needed more space, and a second building, the Sykes Hall, was officially opened on 7 October 2023, with a large rehearsal hall, bar area and parking.
Recognition
In November 2020 the band received a Pride in Wantage award from the Town Council, one of only two organisations named on the council’s list of award winners.
Hearing the band
- Concerts and public engagements are listed on the band’s own website and social media.
- The band welcomes new and returning players of all ages; beginners can start in the training band.