About the Band
East Lancashire Concert Band has an interesting and varied history but its present incarnation is very different from that of over a hundred and fifty years ago when it started life. Several people in the current line-up have been in the Band for over fifty years. Their memories of what the Band was like give a valuable insight into how things were done when military uniforms were worn and marching bands were commonplace.
The regular complement of around 25 players is augmented from time to time with guest players for engagements. (We have good relations with several local bands where there are a number of talented players who will happily join us for concerts and help out when a regular player is not available.)
The Band is based at the Civic Arts Centre in the small town of Oswaldtwistle located between Blackburn and Accrington but its members come from all over Lancashire (and beyond!). In 2011 they became members of the National Federation of Music Societies and the Constitution was updated to reflect their Charitable Status.
The military tradition (see the History of the Band page) lives on in a small way, with one or two members (and regular guest players) having been musicians in the armed forces. Several players - Euphonium, Clarinet, Saxophone, Flute and Cornet/Trumpet - perform as soloists, some whenever possible!
Most members play in at least one other wind band and a few also play in local brass or silver bands. This adds to the wealth of practical experience and variety of musical styles to draw upon.