7 FEBRUARY 2024
At Rossendale Branch of Lancashire Family History and Heraldry Society to introduce the Boer War film shown on 28 November 2023 (see below). Enjoyed the welcome of enthusiastic branch members and Chairman John Dalton (pictured).
28 NOVEMBER 2023
At East Lancashire Branch of the Western Front Association in Burnley presenting Rory MacColl's documentary film about his grandfather, Arthur Rickman, a young officer serving in the Boer War.
Later as Lt. Col. Rickman he led the Accrington Pals in WW1, the subject of the film using the band's music as background sound effect.
6 NOVEMBER 2023
ian McGuinness at BBC Radio Lancashire to promote the Accrington Pals film to be shown on 8th November at Blackburn Empire Theatre
Tom Young
We learned that Tom died on 22 July 2023.
He was born in 1936 and as a younger man played trombone with Accrington Military Band as this band was then known. As and accomplished musician and singer, he was always ready to help and support the current band when the need arose. He will be sadly missed.
Boer War Film
We were contacted in March 2023 by Rory MacColl advising that he had made another film about his grandfather Arthur Rickman based on his experiences as a young officer serving in the South Africa War. We gave a first public screening of the film at Burnley Boys and Girls Club on Saturday 29 April 2023. (A contingent from the Club served under Rickman on the Somme in 1916.)
Music and Fireworks at Hollowforth Hall
Met refugees from Ukraine at a fund-raiser with the Band in the lavish grounds of Hollowforth Hall near Woodplumpton on Saturday 9th July 2022. There was a great audience and the weather could not have been better. The evening ended with a massive firework display.
Met refugees from Ukraine at a fund-raiser with the Band in the lavish grounds of Hollowforth Hall near Woodplumpton on Saturday 9th July 2022. There was a great audience and the weather could not have been better. The evening ended with a massive firework display.
Accrington War Memorial Centenary
On 1 July 2022 exactly as 100 years ago, Accrington Old Band (now East Lancashire Concert Band) performed at the centenary dedication ceremony and wreath laying at Accrington War Memorial in Oak Hill Park.
Lady Alexandra Winnington, grand daughter of Lt. Col. Arthur Rickman who led the Accrington Pals through WW1, laid the first wreath after giving a short address.
Platinum Jubilee Concert at Burnley's Towneley Hall
The 5th June 2022 Jubilee Concert was scheduled to be held on the lawn outside the Hall but due to bad weather was hastily re-arranged and held in the Lecture Theatre at the side of the entrance. Proceedings began by performing the State Anthem of Ukraine and the capacity audience made generous donations to help those refugees who had come to Burnley. A wide range of music popular during the Queen's reign was played culminating in a patriotic Last Night of the Proms type finale.
Sir Harrison Birtwistle
We were saddened to hear that "Sir Harry" died on 18th April 2022 at the age of 87. He is pictured as Harry Birtwistle around 1947 in the uniform of the East Lancashire Military Band, now East Lancashire Concert Band. He played clarinet at the start an illustrious career to become one of the UK's top contemporary composers.
Brave Ukraine
THE MEN ARE A GOOD DEAL RATTLED.
The full length documentary film about the Accrington Pals produced by Rory MacColl (see below) was screened to a capacity audience at the Band's rehearsal base in Oswaldtwistle Civic Arts Centre on Remembrance Sunday, 14th November 2021. Both Rory and his sister Alexandra attended as guests along with many others who had contributed to the production. Grandchildren of commandant Lt. Col. Arthur Rickman, they are pictured with Musical Director Dale Grindrod who conducted the background music used to great atmospheric effect.
The full length documentary film about the Accrington Pals produced by Rory MacColl (see below) was screened to a capacity audience at the Band's rehearsal base in Oswaldtwistle Civic Arts Centre on Remembrance Sunday, 14th November 2021. Both Rory and his sister Alexandra attended as guests along with many others who had contributed to the production. Grandchildren of commandant Lt. Col. Arthur Rickman, they are pictured with Musical Director Dale Grindrod who conducted the background music used to great atmospheric effect.
LES BOND
We were sad to learn that Les passed away on 9th October 2021.
He was a staunch supporter of the Band and was a guest performer at many of our concerts. He was also a fount of knowledge on anything connected with the Accrington Pals and will be much missed.
He is pictured on the left receiving a 175 Anniversary Badge of the Band during the celebrations that took place in November 2017.
"Dressed For Work" was part of a talk about Lancashire social history and the Band given to a group of around forty railway enthusiasts staying at North Oaks Hotel in Colne during August 2021.
Reference to "bath night" using a galvanised metal bath stimulated a lot of discussion as well as the Accrington Pals who were recruited from the Burnley area.
Pictured is the Band's Ian McGuinness attired as one of the workers in the early 1900s. (Flat cap, no collar, and waistcoat.)
"The Men Are a Good Deal Rattled" film has been welcomed with great acclaim by Caernarfon Library and local family history groups.
In 1915 the Accrington Pals were being trained in that part of North Wales and many of the men were billeted with the town's families.
The Band is proud to have provided all the music used to great atmospheric effect throughout the film.
Following a long break to comply with Covid 19 rules, normal rehearsals will resume after 19th July 2021.
Letters for Home now available for small ensemble
Peter Meechan's "Letters for Home" commissioned by East Lancashire Concert Band to commemorate the Centenary of WW1 and the Accrington Pals, is now available as an arrangement in five parts as opposed to full concert band. Dr. Meechan has commented that this music is a best seller, second only to his "Song of Hope". See meechanmusic.com
Award Winning Lancashire Remembers
At a glitzy ceremony held at the Village Hotel, Bury on the evening of 5th September 2019 "Lancashire Remembers" that was performed on 10th November 2018 to mark the centenary of the WW1 Armistice was awarded the Outstanding Fundraising Award for Lancashire County by the Royal British Legion.
Our team was represented at the award event by Nick Holme who spearheaded the initiative and Anne Ellwood the project manager.
Fireworks Finale at Hollowforth Hall
A fund-raising concert held on Saturday 7th July 2019 has become something of an annual event that the band looks forward to. This fourth year was better than ever with perfect weather bringing in a large audience.(See also Forthcoming and past events.)
A fund-raising concert held on Saturday 7th July 2019 has become something of an annual event that the band looks forward to. This fourth year was better than ever with perfect weather bringing in a large audience.(See also Forthcoming and past events.)
"Pals March" in Lytham St. Annes
Ralph Sanders' 1914 composition Pals March was brought back to life at Church Road Methodists when Lytham St. Annes Choral Society had their Summer Sing on Tuesday 2nd July 2019.
The second half of this packed event opened with Musical Director Anne Shepherd's piano rendition of the march to which the "boys" (men of the choir) paraded to the front dressed in WW1 attire.
The theme of the concert was 1919 and reflected upon the end of the Great War a century ago. (The Treaty of Versailles was signed at the end of June that year.) Emotive moments were skillfully counter-balanced by music hall hilarity in this very credit worthy production, proceeds of which were to support Guide Dogs for the Blind and the Royal British Legion.
(Scroll down to April 2015 to learn more about Pals March.)
Victoria Wood's Statue Unveiled
On Friday 17th May 2019, the bronze statue of Victoria Wood was unveiled by her brother Chris and Radio Lancashire's Ted Robbins, a good friend of the band. This took place opposite Bury's Public Library, one of Victoria's favourite haunts.
On 10th June 2017 at our 175th Anniversary Concert we helped Chris to raise funds towards his project to create this statue. (See the news item of that date.)
On Friday 17th May 2019, the bronze statue of Victoria Wood was unveiled by her brother Chris and Radio Lancashire's Ted Robbins, a good friend of the band. This took place opposite Bury's Public Library, one of Victoria's favourite haunts.
On 10th June 2017 at our 175th Anniversary Concert we helped Chris to raise funds towards his project to create this statue. (See the news item of that date.)
. "Closing the Centenary"
At the Imperial War Museum North's final WW1 Centenary Partnership Meeting on 6th March 2019. Pictured addressing the attendees on the highlights of our commemorative events. The "grand finale" was award winning "Lancashire Remembers" at Preston Guildhall on 10th November 2018. (See the news item dated September 2019.)
At the Imperial War Museum North's final WW1 Centenary Partnership Meeting on 6th March 2019. Pictured addressing the attendees on the highlights of our commemorative events. The "grand finale" was award winning "Lancashire Remembers" at Preston Guildhall on 10th November 2018. (See the news item dated September 2019.)
Lancashire Remembers Team Celebration
On Thursday 7th February 2019 the Lancashire Remembers Team met to celebrate the success of the 10th November 2018 event at Preston Guildhall and the generous feedback from the public who attended as well as from those who have enjoyed it on-line.
See https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nKVt9-QK09U
In addition to marking the Centenary of the WW1 Armistice, some 4,500 Pounds was raised for the Royal British Legion. Pictured holding the cheque are Anne Ellwood (Project co-ordinator) and Nick Holme who devised the event.
Videos and CDs are selling on Ebay
The Accrington Pals Centenary Concert DVD recorded live in Accrington Town Hall in September 2014 to commemorate the Centenary of the raising of the Accrington Pals Battalion is proving to be a popular item on Ebay. It features the world premiere of "Letters For Home" composed by Dr. Peter Meechan and was broadcast on Christmas Day and Boxing Day 2014 by BBC Radio Lancashire.
Equally popular is the CD recording compiled from events taking place throughout the commemorations of the centenary of WW1 and the Accrington Pals.
The Accrington Pals Centenary Concert DVD recorded live in Accrington Town Hall in September 2014 to commemorate the Centenary of the raising of the Accrington Pals Battalion is proving to be a popular item on Ebay. It features the world premiere of "Letters For Home" composed by Dr. Peter Meechan and was broadcast on Christmas Day and Boxing Day 2014 by BBC Radio Lancashire.
Equally popular is the CD recording compiled from events taking place throughout the commemorations of the centenary of WW1 and the Accrington Pals.
Message from composer Dr. Peter Meechan
In the wake of "Lancashire Remembers" on 10th November 2018 we were pleased to receive the following message:-
"Thanks so much for sending this through, it was so good to see and hear the band still thriving and supporting it’s local community.
And thank you also for your continued support of my music. Am sure you’ll be happy to hear that Letters for Home has received thousands of performances across 5 continents, and without all of the hard work from you all would never existed. Now it is out in the world and continuing to be part of people’s remembrance, and making a difference."
In the wake of "Lancashire Remembers" on 10th November 2018 we were pleased to receive the following message:-
"Thanks so much for sending this through, it was so good to see and hear the band still thriving and supporting it’s local community.
And thank you also for your continued support of my music. Am sure you’ll be happy to hear that Letters for Home has received thousands of performances across 5 continents, and without all of the hard work from you all would never existed. Now it is out in the world and continuing to be part of people’s remembrance, and making a difference."
Another inspirational 'Lancashire Remembers" choir workshop was held on Monday 22nd October 2018.
Met singer John Hodgeon who served with the Royal Army Service Corps from 1964. We recruited John as an honorary Lancashire Fusilier whilst he kindly held up our promotional poster.
Met singer John Hodgeon who served with the Royal Army Service Corps from 1964. We recruited John as an honorary Lancashire Fusilier whilst he kindly held up our promotional poster.
At Brockholes Wildlife Trust - 20th October 2018
Thanks to Brockholes Wildlife Trust's 'volunteer Lancashire Fusilier' Val Ballantyne for promoting "Lancashire Remembers" to be held at at Preston Guildhall on 10th November 2018. We got a warm welcome at the Visitor Centre.
Thanks to Brockholes Wildlife Trust's 'volunteer Lancashire Fusilier' Val Ballantyne for promoting "Lancashire Remembers" to be held at at Preston Guildhall on 10th November 2018. We got a warm welcome at the Visitor Centre.
At Preston Guildhall - 15th October 2018
On site this afternoon at Preston Guildhall with the "Lancashire Remembers" team led by Nick Holme and Anne Ellwood.
Met Ursula Hurst (pictured) who runs Art Daze. A community artist working in Rishton, her community based project has produced poppies and banners that will hep to set the scene at the "big event" on 10th November 2018.
The fist "Lancashire Remembers" Choir Workshop Monday 8th October 2018
A very successful workshop was held at Valley Street Community Centre in Burnley with over 40 enthusiastic singers attending. Further workshops will be held at the same location as well as in Preston. Everything looks good for the performance at Preston Guildhall on 10th November, the eve of Armistice Day 2018.
Sean Ruanne of Chant Productions is shown conducting.
A very successful workshop was held at Valley Street Community Centre in Burnley with over 40 enthusiastic singers attending. Further workshops will be held at the same location as well as in Preston. Everything looks good for the performance at Preston Guildhall on 10th November, the eve of Armistice Day 2018.
Sean Ruanne of Chant Productions is shown conducting.
Whalley Remembers
Visited historic Whalley Abbey where the band will have the honour of performing in the afternoon of the Centenary of Armistice Day.This will be hot on the heels of the Saturday evening performance "Lancashire Remembers" at Preston Guildhall
Visited historic Whalley Abbey where the band will have the honour of performing in the afternoon of the Centenary of Armistice Day.This will be hot on the heels of the Saturday evening performance "Lancashire Remembers" at Preston Guildhall
Out and about in Preston
Saturday morning 22 September 2018 with Anne Ellwood and Nick Holme raising awareness of the Armistice Centenary in just a few weeks time and Lancashire Remembers, the major commemoration event taking place in the town.
Thanks to staff at Waitrose, Nuffield Health Studio, Dunelm, Wetherspoons. The Harris Library and Art Gallery, Yates Wine Lodge, Dress 4 Less Emaus,M&S, The Music Cellar and Richer Sounds for displaying our posters. Also to the serving member of H.M. Royal signals who kindly took an armful of publicity material but wanted to remain anonymous.
Saturday morning 22 September 2018 with Anne Ellwood and Nick Holme raising awareness of the Armistice Centenary in just a few weeks time and Lancashire Remembers, the major commemoration event taking place in the town.
Thanks to staff at Waitrose, Nuffield Health Studio, Dunelm, Wetherspoons. The Harris Library and Art Gallery, Yates Wine Lodge, Dress 4 Less Emaus,M&S, The Music Cellar and Richer Sounds for displaying our posters. Also to the serving member of H.M. Royal signals who kindly took an armful of publicity material but wanted to remain anonymous.
Promoting Lancashire Remembers in Ramsbottom and Accrington
Wednesday 19th and Thursday 20th September 2018 provided yet more opportunities to "spread the word".
Our Publicity Officer was given the floor at Ramsbottom Civic hall to explain how the event had come into being. Next day he was able to update colleagues at the Accrington Pals Centenary Commemoration Group meeting where he met actress Elianne Hawley (pictured) She had offered performers to do a reading of Peter Whelan's Accrington Pals play in the Town Hall.
Wednesday 19th and Thursday 20th September 2018 provided yet more opportunities to "spread the word".
Our Publicity Officer was given the floor at Ramsbottom Civic hall to explain how the event had come into being. Next day he was able to update colleagues at the Accrington Pals Centenary Commemoration Group meeting where he met actress Elianne Hawley (pictured) She had offered performers to do a reading of Peter Whelan's Accrington Pals play in the Town Hall.
Darwen to the House of Lords 12th September 2018
Baroness Massey of Darwen (Doreen Elizabeth Hall) came to Darwen Heritage Centre to describe her fascinating journey from the Lancashire town of her birth to the House of Lords. She is pictured with our "Lancashire Remembers" poster to take back to Westminster. Also pictured is fellow guest Darwen's Town Mayor, Roy Davies.
Click on the image below for the full picture
Click on the image below for the full picture
Rossendale Family History Society 5th September 2018
Publicity Officer Ian McGuinness related the story of Rawtenstall's own "retail emporium" owner Harvey Nicholls. His son became the orchestra leader at the Grand Variety Theatre in the town during WW1
When a 1917 image of the East Lancashire Regiment (Accrington Pals) military band was screened, "Colonel Bogey" (composed in 1914) was performed by audience member Stuart Speakman on a vintage mellophone. (This was an instrument commonly in use at that time). Being invited to join in, the audience clapped the march-time rhythm with great gusto.
The event ended by giving each audience member a key-ring and leaflet to remind them of "Lancashire Remembers" on 10th November at Preston Guild Hall.
Big thanks to Nick Holme for the valuable research and other material used in this talk.
.
August Bank Holiday at BBC Radio Lancashire
Today was a real treat for members of East Lancashire Concert Band when we were invited to play in a Bank Holiday afternoon of music hosted by Sally Naden at the BBC Radio Lancashire studios. Our fellow entertainers were the Houghton Weavers, Del Mundo from Skelmersdale http://www.wearedelmundo.com/, Ken Nicol https://kennicol.com/ as well as Lancashire legend Bernard Wrigley.
Below we see Sally discussing "Lancashire Remembers" with trumpeter Nick Holme. The event will be presented by Sally and broadcast live from Preston Guildhall on 10th November 2018.There are also images of others sharing the Bank Holiday event.
August Bank Holiday at BBC Radio Lancashire
Today was a real treat for members of East Lancashire Concert Band when we were invited to play in a Bank Holiday afternoon of music hosted by Sally Naden at the BBC Radio Lancashire studios. Our fellow entertainers were the Houghton Weavers, Del Mundo from Skelmersdale http://www.wearedelmundo.com/, Ken Nicol https://kennicol.com/ as well as Lancashire legend Bernard Wrigley.
Below we see Sally discussing "Lancashire Remembers" with trumpeter Nick Holme. The event will be presented by Sally and broadcast live from Preston Guildhall on 10th November 2018.There are also images of others sharing the Bank Holiday event.
Darwen 1940s Day - 11 August 2018
1940s Day in Darwen was last visited in 2016. This year's event has provided another great opportunity to promote "Lancashire Remembers" and enjoy the fly-past by a Lancaster bomber and later by a Hurricane fighter and a Spitfire.
Starting by reporting to Captain Mainwaring (Peter Taylor) our Publicity Officer Ian McGuinness then had a chat with Raymond and Mavis Hope who were enjoying the concert and brilliant sunshine. He met met Bernard Howson (from New Zealand) together with Alan Grogan and Ann Ashe. Moving on to Darwen's Highfield Cub Pack stall, he met Jensen, Morgan, Bobby, Connor, Evan, and helper Ela. This Scouting group were supervised by Akela (Valwreie).
Again, basking in the sunshine, were "seniors" Wyn, Margaret, Edna and Irene.
The military Jeeps on display were a popular attraction. Jim Bennett from Bury was there with his splendid 1944 Ford-built 2.4 litre side valve model. Parked next to him the transport "manned" by ATS Ack-ack Sergeant Nina Johnson..
As he passed Wetherspoon's Beer Garden he met up with the jovial group of Peter, John, Tony, Steve, Carla and Anne. On leaving he was pleased to meet an RAF veteran of WW2. He had served as a driver in India. It was discovered discovered that he was a bit of a musician, starting on the cornet at the age of ten. Now aged 94, he plays the acordian and a range of brass instruments, including trumpet and baritone.He cannot see music scores any more, but still plays by ear. What an inspiration!
1940s Day in Darwen was last visited in 2016. This year's event has provided another great opportunity to promote "Lancashire Remembers" and enjoy the fly-past by a Lancaster bomber and later by a Hurricane fighter and a Spitfire.
Starting by reporting to Captain Mainwaring (Peter Taylor) our Publicity Officer Ian McGuinness then had a chat with Raymond and Mavis Hope who were enjoying the concert and brilliant sunshine. He met met Bernard Howson (from New Zealand) together with Alan Grogan and Ann Ashe. Moving on to Darwen's Highfield Cub Pack stall, he met Jensen, Morgan, Bobby, Connor, Evan, and helper Ela. This Scouting group were supervised by Akela (Valwreie).
Again, basking in the sunshine, were "seniors" Wyn, Margaret, Edna and Irene.
The military Jeeps on display were a popular attraction. Jim Bennett from Bury was there with his splendid 1944 Ford-built 2.4 litre side valve model. Parked next to him the transport "manned" by ATS Ack-ack Sergeant Nina Johnson..
As he passed Wetherspoon's Beer Garden he met up with the jovial group of Peter, John, Tony, Steve, Carla and Anne. On leaving he was pleased to meet an RAF veteran of WW2. He had served as a driver in India. It was discovered discovered that he was a bit of a musician, starting on the cornet at the age of ten. Now aged 94, he plays the acordian and a range of brass instruments, including trumpet and baritone.He cannot see music scores any more, but still plays by ear. What an inspiration!
"Lest We Forget" - Imperial War Museum North - 26 July 2018
Our Publicity Officer was back at the Imperial War Museum North as a guest at the launch of their evocative WW1 exhibition "Least We Forget".This provided yet another opportunity to raise awareness of "Lancashire Remembers" and to meet some interesting people.These included members of the exhibition design team from Liverpool's RIDGE organisation led by Michael Bobby as well as ex-BGS Jonathan Ali, now senior reporter with BBC Radio Manchester. It provided a rare opportunity to chat with John Brown, Executive Director Commerce and Operations of all the Imperial War Museum's locations.
Making Music Day 21st June 2018.
Our Publicity Officer Ian McGuinness was a guest of BBC Radio Lancashire to discuss music in the community on "Making Music Day" This gave an opportunity to promote East Lancashire Concert Band's celebration of Armed Forces Day at Preston's Flag Square on Saturday 30th June 2018. He also had an interesting talk about his vintage dance band ensemble "Last of the Summer Wind", Trumpeter Stuart Speakman (pictured below) gave a "sound bite" demonstration of an old brass mellophone two of which appear in the 1917 photograph of the Accrington Pals band.
Our Publicity Officer Ian McGuinness was a guest of BBC Radio Lancashire to discuss music in the community on "Making Music Day" This gave an opportunity to promote East Lancashire Concert Band's celebration of Armed Forces Day at Preston's Flag Square on Saturday 30th June 2018. He also had an interesting talk about his vintage dance band ensemble "Last of the Summer Wind", Trumpeter Stuart Speakman (pictured below) gave a "sound bite" demonstration of an old brass mellophone two of which appear in the 1917 photograph of the Accrington Pals band.
"Blackburn Orphanage and WW1" was the title of a fascinating talk given on 6th June 2018 by Dave Pilkington of Child Action Northwest. He also introduced the audience to the publication "James Dixon's Children" by Melanie Warren. This gives a detailed history of the orphanage. The talk was presented at Longtholme Methodist Church on Bacup Road, Rawtenstall at a meeting of Lancashire Family History and Heraldry Society. This impressive building was opened in 1842, the same year as Accrington Old Band (now East Lancashire Concert Band0 was founded. In addition to being allowed to promote "Lancashire Remembers" our Publicity Officer (Ian McGuinness) was kindly invited to give a talk there on Wednesday, 5th September 2018.
East Lancashire Railway - 1940's Weekend at Ramsbottom
Sunday 27th May 2018 was another great opportunity to enjoy the sunshine, meet new people, and promote our involvement with "Lancashire Remembers" in November. (Click on the images below for a larger version and descriptions.)
Sunday 27th May 2018 was another great opportunity to enjoy the sunshine, meet new people, and promote our involvement with "Lancashire Remembers" in November. (Click on the images below for a larger version and descriptions.)
Imerial War Museum North
On 24th Mat 2018 our Publicity Officer had the opportunity to promote out "Lancashire Remembers" event to be held at Preston Guildhall on 10th November 2018. He met with the Duke of Lancaster's Regiment's Major Bob Smethurst who is organising an Armitice Centenary event at the same venue on the evening of 9th November.
On 24th Mat 2018 our Publicity Officer had the opportunity to promote out "Lancashire Remembers" event to be held at Preston Guildhall on 10th November 2018. He met with the Duke of Lancaster's Regiment's Major Bob Smethurst who is organising an Armitice Centenary event at the same venue on the evening of 9th November.
BANGING THE DRUM
In the wake of a day spent as "Curator for a Day" of the Band's 175 Years exhibition at Accrington Library in November 2017, publicity officer Ian McGuinness accepted an invitation from Darwen Heritace Centre to deliver a talk there on Tuesday, 8th May 2018.
The event was a great success and well received by an enthusiastic audience.
They were particularly interested in the "Lancashire Remembers" event being planned for Preston Guild Hall on 10th November 2018 to mark the centenary of the
WW1 Armistice.
Later on 12th May at Blackpool Winter Gardens for the British Open Brass Band Championships. Pictured with the legendary Gordon Higginbottom. Renouned horn player now living in Thornton.
Click on the images below for the full sized picture.
LANCASHIRE REMEMBERS
Led by the Band's Nick holme, a team was at BBC Radio Lancashire on the morning of 16th March 2018 launching LANCASHIRE REMEMBERS, the Centenary of the end of the Great War.
This will be a massive event held at the Preston Guild Hall on Saturday 10th November 2018.
In the studio with BBC's Helen Randle, Sally Naden, and Brett Davison are Nick Holme, Anne Ellwood and Sean Ruane.
In addition to East Lancashire Concert Band will be Accrington Pipe Band, the 2nd Rossendale Scouts Brass Band, and a choir of up to 400 singers currently being recruited by opera singer Sean.
There will be solo performances by friends of the Band.
Tickets are already on sale via Preston Guild Hall
Nick Holme has produced a short video for use in promoting the event.
See https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pw6rC8H0Tj8
Led by the Band's Nick holme, a team was at BBC Radio Lancashire on the morning of 16th March 2018 launching LANCASHIRE REMEMBERS, the Centenary of the end of the Great War.
This will be a massive event held at the Preston Guild Hall on Saturday 10th November 2018.
In the studio with BBC's Helen Randle, Sally Naden, and Brett Davison are Nick Holme, Anne Ellwood and Sean Ruane.
In addition to East Lancashire Concert Band will be Accrington Pipe Band, the 2nd Rossendale Scouts Brass Band, and a choir of up to 400 singers currently being recruited by opera singer Sean.
There will be solo performances by friends of the Band.
Tickets are already on sale via Preston Guild Hall
Nick Holme has produced a short video for use in promoting the event.
See https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pw6rC8H0Tj8
Sir Harrison Birtwistle Accrington Military Band Collection
On Wednesday, 14th March 2018, our Publicity Officer visited Ian Duckworth, Librarian at the Royal Northern College of Music. He has archived the "Sir Harrison Birtwistle Accringtom Military Band Collection". This is a vast amount of late 19th and early 20th century music that is surplus to the (now) East Lancashire Concert Band's regular needs, but we do dip into it from time to time.
The music was transferred to RNCM following advice from "Sir Harry" received during our early planning for commemoration of the WW1 Centenary.
During the visit Ian was presented with one of our "175th Anniverary" brooches in recognition of the valuable service we have received from him over recent years.
On Wednesday, 14th March 2018, our Publicity Officer visited Ian Duckworth, Librarian at the Royal Northern College of Music. He has archived the "Sir Harrison Birtwistle Accringtom Military Band Collection". This is a vast amount of late 19th and early 20th century music that is surplus to the (now) East Lancashire Concert Band's regular needs, but we do dip into it from time to time.
The music was transferred to RNCM following advice from "Sir Harry" received during our early planning for commemoration of the WW1 Centenary.
During the visit Ian was presented with one of our "175th Anniverary" brooches in recognition of the valuable service we have received from him over recent years.
Whalley Remembers
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Thanks to the Accrington Folk and their Christmas Cheer, 2017!
We enjoyed playing Christmal Carols at Tesco on Sunday afternoon, 17th. December.
Donations to the band were even more generous than before.
We really do "Wish You A Merry Christmas".
We enjoyed playing Christmal Carols at Tesco on Sunday afternoon, 17th. December.
Donations to the band were even more generous than before.
We really do "Wish You A Merry Christmas".
PRESS RELEASE (Image kindly supplied byGail Newsham)
FIRST IN THE WORLD MONUMENT IN PRESTON
History will be made at Preston North End FC on 22 December with the unveiling of a memorial tribute to the Dick, Kerr Ladies football team to commemorate one hundred years since they played their first game at this famous stadium. The wall mounted memorial is the first of its kind in the world and is made from 3.5 tonnes of granite and will stand six metres high by four meters wide.
It was on Christmas Day 1917 that the Dick, Kerr Ladies took on Arundel Coulthards Foundry in a charity football match to raise funds for injured soldiers who had been fighting on the Western Front and convalescing at the nearby Moor Park Military Hospital. A crowd of 10,000 spectators came to watch the match and £600 was raised for the soldiers. (Almost £50k in 2017)
The team went from strength to strength and soon became recognised as the best in the country. In 1920 they played the first ladies International at Deepdale against a French team from Paris in front of 25,000 spectators, a record crowd for the ground at that time. Boxing Day 1920 saw them make history playing in front of 53,000 spectators at Goodison Park, Everton and with between 10,000 and 14,000 people unable to get in to the ground, this was a huge landmark for the ladies game.
In spite of an FA ban on women’s football in 1921, the Dick, Kerr Ladies continued to play against all the odds until 1965 and during that time they played 833 games of football, won 759, drew 46 and lost only 28 games. They raised in the region of £180,000 for charity, but today that would be worth in excess of £10 million.
A dedicated team of volunteers have worked hard to ensure that it has been an incredible centenary year for the team. Having already been honoured with the first Blue Plaque in the world for women’s football attached to the factory in Preston where they were formed, a Centenary Dinner was held at Preston North End in July and the first National Women’s Walking Football Tournament, the Dick, Kerr Ladies Cup was staged at the UCLan Sports Arena when sixteen teams from all over the country took part in the event. The icing on the cake was a special award at the FA Women’s Awards at the Grosvenor Hotel in London earlier this year.
PNE have kindly given their support in siting the memorial at Deepdale and David Taylor, Deputy Chairman of Preston North End and the Chairman of UCLan said: “Both Preston North End and the University are happy to support the Centenary events to celebrate the Dick, Kerr Ladies Football Team. What these women achieved both on the field and off the field in terms of raising money for injured soldiers during the First World War is remarkable by any standards. The City of Preston can be rightly proud of the heritagel”.
Without the generous support from all our founder sponsors, this incredible memorial tribute would not be happening. They are: The FA, BAE Systems, UCLan, PNE, FWP Architects, UEFA and the PFA. They will all be represented at the unveiling.
The memorial will be unveiled at PNE by Sheila Parker, Rachel Brown Finnis and Gail Newsham. Sheila Parker began her football career with Preston (Dick, Kerr) Ladies and went on to become England captain in the first recognised International against Scotland at Greenock in 1972. She won thirty three international caps and was inducted into the National Football Museum Hall of Fame in 2013.
Rachel Brown Finnis is the former Everton and England goalkeeper. She won eighty two international caps playing in World Cups and UEFA Championships including the 2009 UEFA Championship final against Germany. She also won an FA Cup winners medal with Everton in 2010. She was inducted into the NFM Hall of Fame in 2016.
Former football player with Preston Rangers, (now AFC Fylde) Gail Newsham, organised the first ever reunion of the Dick, Kerr Ladies in 1992, and first published a book about them, In a League of Their Own!’ in 1994 after researching their remarkable undiscovered history. Gail has worked for the last twenty five years to keep their name alive and help raise awareness of their incredible success.
Among the eighty or so guests will be family members of some of the early pioneers, along with former players from the team who will also be in attendance. Sue Smith, former England Lioness Legend and Doncaster Belles star player will also be joining the guests for the celebrations.
The event is open to the public from 2.30pm who will be entertained by the East Lancashire Concert Band and a combined choir made up of The Kirkham Singers and Freckleton Village Singers, who will perform two songs before the unveiling. The band will be playing a special arrangement of the PNE anthem ‘Margie’ which has been arranged especially for them and will be the first time it has been played. BBC Radio Lancashire will be broadcasting live from the car park with John Gillmore and the unveiling will take place at 3.00pm.
For more details contact Gail Newsham 07939 505485 or Alison Hitchen 07930 575625
FIRST IN THE WORLD MONUMENT IN PRESTON
History will be made at Preston North End FC on 22 December with the unveiling of a memorial tribute to the Dick, Kerr Ladies football team to commemorate one hundred years since they played their first game at this famous stadium. The wall mounted memorial is the first of its kind in the world and is made from 3.5 tonnes of granite and will stand six metres high by four meters wide.
It was on Christmas Day 1917 that the Dick, Kerr Ladies took on Arundel Coulthards Foundry in a charity football match to raise funds for injured soldiers who had been fighting on the Western Front and convalescing at the nearby Moor Park Military Hospital. A crowd of 10,000 spectators came to watch the match and £600 was raised for the soldiers. (Almost £50k in 2017)
The team went from strength to strength and soon became recognised as the best in the country. In 1920 they played the first ladies International at Deepdale against a French team from Paris in front of 25,000 spectators, a record crowd for the ground at that time. Boxing Day 1920 saw them make history playing in front of 53,000 spectators at Goodison Park, Everton and with between 10,000 and 14,000 people unable to get in to the ground, this was a huge landmark for the ladies game.
In spite of an FA ban on women’s football in 1921, the Dick, Kerr Ladies continued to play against all the odds until 1965 and during that time they played 833 games of football, won 759, drew 46 and lost only 28 games. They raised in the region of £180,000 for charity, but today that would be worth in excess of £10 million.
A dedicated team of volunteers have worked hard to ensure that it has been an incredible centenary year for the team. Having already been honoured with the first Blue Plaque in the world for women’s football attached to the factory in Preston where they were formed, a Centenary Dinner was held at Preston North End in July and the first National Women’s Walking Football Tournament, the Dick, Kerr Ladies Cup was staged at the UCLan Sports Arena when sixteen teams from all over the country took part in the event. The icing on the cake was a special award at the FA Women’s Awards at the Grosvenor Hotel in London earlier this year.
PNE have kindly given their support in siting the memorial at Deepdale and David Taylor, Deputy Chairman of Preston North End and the Chairman of UCLan said: “Both Preston North End and the University are happy to support the Centenary events to celebrate the Dick, Kerr Ladies Football Team. What these women achieved both on the field and off the field in terms of raising money for injured soldiers during the First World War is remarkable by any standards. The City of Preston can be rightly proud of the heritagel”.
Without the generous support from all our founder sponsors, this incredible memorial tribute would not be happening. They are: The FA, BAE Systems, UCLan, PNE, FWP Architects, UEFA and the PFA. They will all be represented at the unveiling.
The memorial will be unveiled at PNE by Sheila Parker, Rachel Brown Finnis and Gail Newsham. Sheila Parker began her football career with Preston (Dick, Kerr) Ladies and went on to become England captain in the first recognised International against Scotland at Greenock in 1972. She won thirty three international caps and was inducted into the National Football Museum Hall of Fame in 2013.
Rachel Brown Finnis is the former Everton and England goalkeeper. She won eighty two international caps playing in World Cups and UEFA Championships including the 2009 UEFA Championship final against Germany. She also won an FA Cup winners medal with Everton in 2010. She was inducted into the NFM Hall of Fame in 2016.
Former football player with Preston Rangers, (now AFC Fylde) Gail Newsham, organised the first ever reunion of the Dick, Kerr Ladies in 1992, and first published a book about them, In a League of Their Own!’ in 1994 after researching their remarkable undiscovered history. Gail has worked for the last twenty five years to keep their name alive and help raise awareness of their incredible success.
Among the eighty or so guests will be family members of some of the early pioneers, along with former players from the team who will also be in attendance. Sue Smith, former England Lioness Legend and Doncaster Belles star player will also be joining the guests for the celebrations.
The event is open to the public from 2.30pm who will be entertained by the East Lancashire Concert Band and a combined choir made up of The Kirkham Singers and Freckleton Village Singers, who will perform two songs before the unveiling. The band will be playing a special arrangement of the PNE anthem ‘Margie’ which has been arranged especially for them and will be the first time it has been played. BBC Radio Lancashire will be broadcasting live from the car park with John Gillmore and the unveiling will take place at 3.00pm.
For more details contact Gail Newsham 07939 505485 or Alison Hitchen 07930 575625
Oswaldtwistle Christmas Lights Switch-on
Tuesday 28th November 2017
An intrepid team from the band braved the cold to perform carols at this annual event.
A Big Hit at Accrington Library on Wednesday 1st November 2017
as part of the 175th Anniversay of the Band Exhibition.
Publicity Officer Ian McGuinness spent a busy time as "Honorary Curator for the Day". Dressed in early 1900's attire, he went equipped with an antique gramophone, pre WW1 records, and a big bass drum.
An early visitor was Accrington Pals Historian Les Bond. He has worked with the Band on several occasions. In recognition of this he was presented with one of the Band's 175 Years commemorative badges.
Trumpeter Nick Holme did most of the work of compiling the history and putting the exhibition together. He is pictured
chatting with visitor Joseph Daly
As always, the big bass drum proved to be a "big hit". This was particularly the case when youngsters were recruited to perform "Old MacGuinness had a band, ee-i-ee-i-oh!" More mature visitors also took the rare opportunity to bang the drum in the Library.
The Exhibition continues at the Library until 15th November 2017. (Free entry).
as part of the 175th Anniversay of the Band Exhibition.
Publicity Officer Ian McGuinness spent a busy time as "Honorary Curator for the Day". Dressed in early 1900's attire, he went equipped with an antique gramophone, pre WW1 records, and a big bass drum.
An early visitor was Accrington Pals Historian Les Bond. He has worked with the Band on several occasions. In recognition of this he was presented with one of the Band's 175 Years commemorative badges.
Trumpeter Nick Holme did most of the work of compiling the history and putting the exhibition together. He is pictured
chatting with visitor Joseph Daly
As always, the big bass drum proved to be a "big hit". This was particularly the case when youngsters were recruited to perform "Old MacGuinness had a band, ee-i-ee-i-oh!" More mature visitors also took the rare opportunity to bang the drum in the Library.
The Exhibition continues at the Library until 15th November 2017. (Free entry).
Stormy Weather "Presenter" and BBC Radio Lancashire
Brian Healey called in to meet the band at the rehearsal on Sunday 1st October 2017. He has kindly volunteered to act as Presenter at the Thwaites Empire Theatre next Sunday,8th August.
Brian is a past Chairman of Blackburn Music Society and teacher at Queen Elizabeth Grammar School. More recently he has become very much in demand as a guest lecturer on several well known cruise ships.
He is pictured with Musical Director Dale Grindrod and trumpeter Nick Holme. Nick has been involved throughout the planning of "Stormy Weather" and has written a special arrangement of the Stormy Weather theme tune for this event..
Two days later, publicity officer Ian McGuinness was invited into the studio of BBC Radio Lancashire and was interviewed by their John Gillmore about "Stormy Weather" and "Address Unknown".
175th Anniversary Commemorative Brooch Badges
As a keepsake of this important anniversary, specially stamped brooch badges have been awarded to members who have performed with us in public during 2017.
This gesture has been extended to include guest players in recognition of the important contribution they make to our events.
As a keepsake of this important anniversary, specially stamped brooch badges have been awarded to members who have performed with us in public during 2017.
This gesture has been extended to include guest players in recognition of the important contribution they make to our events.
Stormy Weather "Forecast"
Sunday 10th September 2017 presented two great opportunities to promote the "Address Unknown" prize winning play by Katherine Kressman Taylor to be presented by Blackburn Drama Club at Thwaites Empire Theatre, together with music of the 1930's performed by ELCB. The event will take place at 7.30 pm on Sunday 8th October.
Publicity Officer Ian McGuinness was playing at Manchester's Bridgewater Hall as a guest of Gorton Philharmonic Orchestra and was able to distribute leaflets for the event. He also visited Darwen Heritage Centre and met with Trustee Janine Swinglehurst who was happy to put the details on display.
Click on images below to reveal captions.
Sunday 10th September 2017 presented two great opportunities to promote the "Address Unknown" prize winning play by Katherine Kressman Taylor to be presented by Blackburn Drama Club at Thwaites Empire Theatre, together with music of the 1930's performed by ELCB. The event will take place at 7.30 pm on Sunday 8th October.
Publicity Officer Ian McGuinness was playing at Manchester's Bridgewater Hall as a guest of Gorton Philharmonic Orchestra and was able to distribute leaflets for the event. He also visited Darwen Heritage Centre and met with Trustee Janine Swinglehurst who was happy to put the details on display.
Click on images below to reveal captions.
175th Anniversary Celebration Concert 10 June 2017
This was an opportunity for those who missed out on our earlier events. We started the concert at the Civic Arts Centre in Oswaldtwistle with Mozart and our Musical Journey led through to Music of the Minstrels, The Beatles, an animated YMCA, and lots of singing featuring Stephanie Johnson and Steve Taylor. The audience entered into the spirit of the light hearted second half with their own singing and "hand jiving".
The first half included vintage film footage of the early 1900s projected onto the screen behind the band.
Exhibits previously displayed at the Hyndburn Heritage Centre were moved to the Civic and were a popular talking point during the interval and afterwards. (We had to almost throw people out at the end!!) The full enhanced exhibition moves to the Howarth Art Gallery as part of "Amazing Accrington", starting with our own Musical Fanfare on Saturday, 5th August.
The concert exceeded all our expectations, with a full house. We have been in touch with Chris Foote Wood (Victoria Wood's brother) for over a year in the hope that he might help to professionally publish the band's history that Chairman Nick Home has been working on since 2013 as we planned for WW1 Centenary Commemorations. Chris is a publisher, broadcaster, and other things. After the interval, Chris addressed the audience explaining how the Wood family grew up in Bury and invited donations towards the statue in memory of Victoria.
This was an opportunity for those who missed out on our earlier events. We started the concert at the Civic Arts Centre in Oswaldtwistle with Mozart and our Musical Journey led through to Music of the Minstrels, The Beatles, an animated YMCA, and lots of singing featuring Stephanie Johnson and Steve Taylor. The audience entered into the spirit of the light hearted second half with their own singing and "hand jiving".
The first half included vintage film footage of the early 1900s projected onto the screen behind the band.
Exhibits previously displayed at the Hyndburn Heritage Centre were moved to the Civic and were a popular talking point during the interval and afterwards. (We had to almost throw people out at the end!!) The full enhanced exhibition moves to the Howarth Art Gallery as part of "Amazing Accrington", starting with our own Musical Fanfare on Saturday, 5th August.
The concert exceeded all our expectations, with a full house. We have been in touch with Chris Foote Wood (Victoria Wood's brother) for over a year in the hope that he might help to professionally publish the band's history that Chairman Nick Home has been working on since 2013 as we planned for WW1 Centenary Commemorations. Chris is a publisher, broadcaster, and other things. After the interval, Chris addressed the audience explaining how the Wood family grew up in Bury and invited donations towards the statue in memory of Victoria.
At BBC Radio Lancashire on 8th June to promote our Band's 175th Anniversary Celebration concert at the Civic Arts Centre, Oswaldtwistle at 7.00pm on Saturday, 10th June 2017.
This is great opportunity for anyone who missed our over-subscribed Accrington Pals Centenary Concert in September 2014 and the Somme Centenary Concert in July 2016.
The late Victoria Wood's brother Chris says he will be there. Amonst other things (politician, broadcaster / entertainer) he runs a publishing business. We are hoping that he will help us to publish the Band's history compiled of the past few years by Band Chairman, Nick Holme. He says that he will deliver a few words about Victoria's memory during the evening. Not to be missed!
Ian McGuinness is pictured with BBC presenter Sally Naden following the broadcast.
This is great opportunity for anyone who missed our over-subscribed Accrington Pals Centenary Concert in September 2014 and the Somme Centenary Concert in July 2016.
The late Victoria Wood's brother Chris says he will be there. Amonst other things (politician, broadcaster / entertainer) he runs a publishing business. We are hoping that he will help us to publish the Band's history compiled of the past few years by Band Chairman, Nick Holme. He says that he will deliver a few words about Victoria's memory during the evening. Not to be missed!
Ian McGuinness is pictured with BBC presenter Sally Naden following the broadcast.
Band Publicity Officer, Ian McGuinness, was invited to deliver a short address to delegates at the IWM North meeting of the WW1 Centenary Partnership. This went down well, particularly as he was able to grab attention by blowing a vintage mellophone that he had taken along. This instrument generated quite a bit of extra interest, not least of all by North West Film Archive's Geoff Senior. (Shown below reviving his brass instrument skills.)
He kindly sent a "still" image of the band in the the Archives footage of the 1908 Accrington Rose Queen procession.
The following message was included in the attendees "information pack":-
FESTIVAL OF REMEMBRANCE NORTH
Saturday 10th Nov 2018 at The Guildhall, Preston
Featuring the East Lancashire Concert Band and Guests
In 2018, a fairly unique situation occurs wherein both Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday fall on the same day. This provides an opportunity to mark both Remembrance Sunday 2018 and the Centenary of the end of the Great War with one combined event.
East Lancashire Concert Band were formerly the Accrington Old Band who, on the last Saturday of September 1914, led the parade of the newly formed 11th (Service) Battalion East Lancashire Regiment – “The Accrington Pals”. Working with Hyndburn Council’s Accrington PALS Centenary Commemoration Group and other IWM World War One Partnership members they have remembered the Pals with a number of musical events. These include concerts to mark the 1914 recruitment of the Battalion as well as the loss of so many men at the Battle of the Somme on 1st July 1916.
In collaboration with the Royal British Legion, they are now planning to mark the centenary of the end of the Great War in November 2018 in the form of a combined Armistice and Festival of Remembrance.
Their vision of the event is one modelled on the annual Festival of Remembrance held in London’s Royal Albert Hall, with marching bands, local artists, cadets and other interest groups and finishing with a Service of Remembrance. It will be broadcast live by BBC Radio Lancashire.
During 2017 ELCB celebrate the 175th Anniversary of being founded in 1842.
http://www.eastlancsconcertband.org
Lancashire and North West Magazine June 2017 Edition
We were given us a great three page feature in this "up-market" glossy publication
(Click on the pictures below for a larger image)
We were given us a great three page feature in this "up-market" glossy publication
(Click on the pictures below for a larger image)
A Great Start to East Lancashire Concert Band's 175th Anniversary Celebrations
Our celebrations started with great enthusiasm at Accrington's Arndale Shopping Centre with much help from the team of Hyndburn Heritage Centre Museum on Saturday afternoon, 15th April 2017.
Many thanks to the numerous friends of the band who came along to support us.
Our celebrations started with great enthusiasm at Accrington's Arndale Shopping Centre with much help from the team of Hyndburn Heritage Centre Museum on Saturday afternoon, 15th April 2017.
Many thanks to the numerous friends of the band who came along to support us.
Haworth Art Gallery "Amazing Accrington" Exhibition August - September 2017
Nick Holme and Ian McGuinness visited the Haworth Art Gallery on Saturday 8th April 2017 and met with Gillian Berry who is working on plans for the "Amazing Accrington" exhibition later in the year. Gillian has kindly offered to help with the preparation of a number of "history boards" which explain in graphic format how the band has developed since being founded in 1842. As with the Hyndburn Heritage Museum exhibition, an ensemble of musicians will perform at the Gallery as part of the 175th Anniversary celebrations.
Gillian and Nick are pictured discussing the Band's history
175th Anniversary Celebration Exhibition Launch at Accrington Arndale Heritage Centre on Saturday 15th April 2017
The Band will launch this year's 175th Anniversary Celebrations with an exhibition of memorabilia and story boards at the Heritage Museum in Accrington's Arndale Shopping Centre on Easter Saturday 2017. An ensemble of musicians will herald the event and entertain shoppers by performing there during the afternoon. Final plans were discussed by Shopping Centre Manager Zain Kiyani, Band Chairman Nick Holme, and the Heritage Centre's Colin Lowther. Pictured outside the Heritage Museum with Nick Holme are volunteers Marjorie Worral and Bernard Walmsley.
The Band will launch this year's 175th Anniversary Celebrations with an exhibition of memorabilia and story boards at the Heritage Museum in Accrington's Arndale Shopping Centre on Easter Saturday 2017. An ensemble of musicians will herald the event and entertain shoppers by performing there during the afternoon. Final plans were discussed by Shopping Centre Manager Zain Kiyani, Band Chairman Nick Holme, and the Heritage Centre's Colin Lowther. Pictured outside the Heritage Museum with Nick Holme are volunteers Marjorie Worral and Bernard Walmsley.
Visitors from Scotland on Sunday 19th March 2017
A contingent from Whitburn called in to see us at our regular Sunday rehearsal.. (Marilyn Bonnar, Carole Kelly, John Devlin, Michelle Greens, Jim Simpson and Tracy Johnston are shown in the group photograph.) Hosted by the Oswaltwistle Players, they are part of the delegation working on the "twinning" of their Scottish town with Oswaldtwistle.
Another surprise visitor was local MP Graham Jones, shown chatting with past Chairman Alan Isherwood. When Mr Jones saw the selection of literature being developed in preparation for our 175th Anniversary celebrations he volunteered his practical assistance to produce the programme for our 175th Anniversary Concert on 10th June 2017. (His job before Westminster was as a graphic designer in the printing industry.)
(Click on the pictures below for a larger image with caption.)
Friday 13th January 2017 - Planning Ahead for 175 Year's Celebrations
Early in January Chairman Nick Holme visited the Heritage Centre in Accrington to discuss plans for celebrating our 175th Anniversary by mounting a small exhibition of band memorabilia. He met with their June Huntingdon and Colin Lowther, and donated a volume of the band's history. Later that day he met with Rev. Ian Endicott to discuss the memorial to band founder member Adam Westwell. The memorial stands in the grounds of St. James's church in the centre of Accrington.
(Click on the pictures below for a larger image with caption.)
(Click on the pictures below for a larger image with caption.)
Les Bond - Tree Planting Ceremony
Band supporter and singer at past performances, Les Bond, was principal guest at a Tree Planting Ceremony held in the Rose Garden at Accrington's Howarth Park on Saturday, 19th November 2016. This was to mark the Centenary of the end of the Battle of the Somme (1st July - 18th November 1916). Two oak tree saplings planted by the Mayor of Hyndburn, Councillor Tim O'kane, had been grown from acorns by Accrington Pals historian Les picked up some 14 years ago following a visit to the battlefields in France.
After the ceremony, guests took refreshment in the Music Room of the Haworth Art Gallery. Music was provided by the Railway Brass Ensemble who are also members of East Lancashire Concert Band. Their performance included two hymns played by the then Accrington Old Band at the unveiling of the newly erected War Memorial in Oak Hill Park on 1st July 1922.
After the ceremony, guests took refreshment in the Music Room of the Haworth Art Gallery. Music was provided by the Railway Brass Ensemble who are also members of East Lancashire Concert Band. Their performance included two hymns played by the then Accrington Old Band at the unveiling of the newly erected War Memorial in Oak Hill Park on 1st July 1922.
Canadian Band Association and "Letters for Home"
We are proud to learn that in October 2016 the Canadian Band Association included "Letters for Home" in their list of test pieces. They describe it as "a significant work that requires maturity and attention to detail. Written in three movements, the work was commissioned by the East Lancashire Concert Band to commemorate the start of the First World War".
It opens with The Bittersweet Love-song, moves to The Trench and closes with "In Memory"
This work is is poignant and the very best kind of programmatic, giving the audience an aural tour of the subject matter."
It opens with The Bittersweet Love-song, moves to The Trench and closes with "In Memory"
This work is is poignant and the very best kind of programmatic, giving the audience an aural tour of the subject matter."
Souvenir CDs of Somme Centenary Concert at Lancaster and Heysham
Chairman Nick Holme has kindly produced for band members and other interested groups a limited number of souvenir CDs of the
1st July Somme Day Centenary Concert performed at Accrington Town Hall and broadcast live by BBC Radio Lancashire..
Copies have recently been donated to the Kings Own Royal Regiment collection at Lancaster City Museum and Heysham's Heritage Centre. Mike Charlton, responsible for the Heysham WW1display, has suggested using the recordings to provide an atmospheric background when the Mayor of Lancaster officially opens it.
Pictured at the Heysham Heritage Centre are volunteers Norman Gibson and Graham Maxwell
Pay Attention. The Word is Out!
Our band's publicity officer, suitably attired, spent a busy morning at Darwen's "1940's Day" to promote our next engagement on 24th September 2016. Lots of enthusiasm was generated as the "mixed bag" of musical treats to be delivered at Burnley's Autumn Serenade was described by him.
(Please click on the images above for the full picture and caption.)
See below and the Forthcoming Events page for more information.
(Please click on the images above for the full picture and caption.)
See below and the Forthcoming Events page for more information.
Burnley's "Autumn Serenade"
Jim Forrester was in the audience at the 1st July 2016 BBC Radio Lancashire Somme Day Centenary Concert in Accrington Town Hall. He served with the East Lancashire Regiment during his National Service and is an avid WW1 local history researcher.
Immediately after our performance he invited us to participate in a fund-raiser for his Parish of West Burnley church, All Saints with St. John the Baptist.
We are delighted to have accepted Jim’s invitation and he his now busy organising the event “Autumn Serenade” at which he will act as Presenter. In addition to the Band, he is planning to invite lady singers from the Church to perform as soloists.
The repertoire to be performed will be a “mixed bag” to show off the Band’s musical versatility. Some popular music of the 1940’s can be expected together with a “Last Night at the Proms.” finale.
Please refer to the"Forthcoming Events" page on this website for more details.
Immediately after our performance he invited us to participate in a fund-raiser for his Parish of West Burnley church, All Saints with St. John the Baptist.
We are delighted to have accepted Jim’s invitation and he his now busy organising the event “Autumn Serenade” at which he will act as Presenter. In addition to the Band, he is planning to invite lady singers from the Church to perform as soloists.
The repertoire to be performed will be a “mixed bag” to show off the Band’s musical versatility. Some popular music of the 1940’s can be expected together with a “Last Night at the Proms.” finale.
Please refer to the"Forthcoming Events" page on this website for more details.
Radio Lancashire Somme Day Concert now available on Youtube
Leyland Brass Band and the 'Pals March'
The 'Pals March' was composed in 1914 for piano by Ralph Sanders.
The piano score was archived in Accrington Library. Early in 2013 it was arranged for East Lancashire Concert Band by Nick Holme (Nick Bonneville) and a few weeks later was broadcast by BBC Radio Lancashire..
The music was almost certainly written to celebrate the recruitment of the “Pals” battalions in response to Lord Kitchener's appeal at the outbreak of war. The tune reflects the optimistic mood of the time and an exciting adventure that might well be over by Christmas!
At the request of historian Stuart A Clewlow, Nick made available his brass band arrangement to the Leyland Band who performed and recorded it on 2nd July at a Chorley Pals Memorial concert ‘Pals on Parade‘. This was held in Chorley Town Hall and was the first brass band rendition. It received a fantastic response from the audience which included East Lancashire Concert Band's Nick Holme and Ian McGuinness.
This event formed part of the Somme Centenary commemorations. A full Company of recruits from Chorley formed a vital part of the Accrington Pals and shared the heavy casualties suffered on the first day of the battle.
See http://www.4barsrest.com/news/detail.asp?id=25250#.V30gEbgrLIU
Sean Ruane
In preparation for the Somme Day Centenary Concert on 1st July (see below) we were joined at our rehearsal on Sunday 26th June by internationally acclaimed opera singer Sean Ruane .
Sean, will be on stage with the BAE Systems Choir.
Sean is photographed with Nick Holme (Band Chairman)
Rossendale Ladies Choir
On Sunday 12th June 2016 we welcomed Rossendale Ladies Choir to a special rehearsal for the Accrington "Pals" Prom in Oakhill Park on Saturday 25th June.and for a Battle of the Somme centenary commemoration concert at Accrington Town Hall on 1st July.
This will be broadcast live by BBC Radio Lancashire in the evening of 1st July.from 6.00pm.
See http://www.rossendaleladieschoir.org.uk/
This will be broadcast live by BBC Radio Lancashire in the evening of 1st July.from 6.00pm.
See http://www.rossendaleladieschoir.org.uk/
Somme Centenary Concert Announcement
Nick Holme (Band Chairman) and Ian McGuinness (Publicity Officer) were at the Blackburn Studio Theatre of BBC Radio Lancashire on Friday 27th May when the Somme Centenary Concert to be held at Accrington Town Hall on 1st July 2016 was announced on air.
The event will be presented by Radio Lancashire's Sally Naden.
Also in the studio was Dylan Owen who will be performing his own "Fallen Of The Day" at the concert.
For more information and ticket details please refer to our Forthcoming Events page.
The event will be presented by Radio Lancashire's Sally Naden.
Also in the studio was Dylan Owen who will be performing his own "Fallen Of The Day" at the concert.
For more information and ticket details please refer to our Forthcoming Events page.
Dylan Owen (left) with Nick Holme
Somme Centenary World-wide Interest
Radio producer Andy Denwood joined our morning rehearsal on Sunday 22nd May 2016. He is preparing a documentary for the BBC World Service about the Battle of the Somme and the Accrington Pals involvement.
Andy is pictured chatting with Nick Holme (Band Chairman) and our newest young musician, Alex Goodram (Tuba). In addition to recording interviews, he captured a few musical "sound bites" as the band performed.
The programme was aired on 4 July 2016. You can hear the Band playing "Pals March"
6 minutes and 45 seconds into the broadcast which can be found on
http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p03z2zlp
(See also the feature on Pals March on this website.)
The programme was aired on 4 July 2016. You can hear the Band playing "Pals March"
6 minutes and 45 seconds into the broadcast which can be found on
http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p03z2zlp
(See also the feature on Pals March on this website.)
Pals on Parade
We are delighted to hear that our Chairman Nick Holmes' arrangement of "Pals March" is to be part of the Leyland Band programme at Chorley Town Hall on 2nd July.
The piano score of this 1914 composition was lodged in Accrington Library and brought to our attention by Helen Barrett of Hyndburn's Accrington Pals Centenary Commemoration Group.
You can read about (and hear) Pals March in the "Photos and Features" part of this website.
Chernobyl 30 Years On
It is 30 years ago since since April 1983 when the Chernolbyl disaster took place.This was the worst nuclear accident in history. The children of Chernobyl have not been forgotten and the band will be performing in support of Blackpool's Chernobyl Children Charities at the Blackpool Hilton Hotel on Friday 15th April.
Rehearsals are well under way with singer Jess Allen for this 1940's themed event.
(Photo courtesy Sunday Times Magazine)
The Band is proud to be be rounding-off the "Padiham On Parade" weekend on Sunday 26th June 2016.
We hope to see you at Memorial Park from 2.00pm.
Lions "Thank You!"
Lion Tony Clarkson, District Convention Chairman, called in at our Sunday 13th March rehearsal to say a special "Thank you!" to the band for the performance at the Dunkenhalgh Hotel the previous Sunday.
He is pictured during his visit with Band Chairman, Nick Holme.
REVEALED: Accrington Pals at the Battle of the Somme centenary plans
Reported by Accrington Observer's Charlotte Green on 7th January 2016
With 2016 now upon us, a series of commemoration events is being planned to mark the centenary of the Accrington Pals’ devastating losses in the Battle of the Somme.
The bandstand in Oakhill Park in Accrington will host the first ever ‘Pals Prom’ on Armed Forces Day on June 25, with a Last Night of the Proms-style performance by the East Lancashire Concert Band.
This is the first event to be organised by the Accrington Pals Prom Group, a group of volunteers committed to ensuring the commemorations become a regular annual event for Hyndburn.
Anne Ellwood, who chairs the the Accrington Pals Prom Group, said: “Our group is working in partnership with the Royal British Legion and the East Lancashire Concert Band will perform - the same band (then named Accrington Old Band) that played when the Pals were recruited in 1914.
Mrs Ellwood commented, “We are paying tribute to the Pals, but equally we are being respectful for those that died in other conflicts. It’s all very much about the armed forces, past and present.”
The prom precedes the Accrington Pals Centenary Commemorations on July 1, the first day of the Battle of the Somme in 1916, in which 584 of the Accrington Pals were killed or injured.
Mrs Ellwood said the group is now looking for support. “There are a lot of different ways that people can get involved, whether helping out on the day or volunteering to promote and support the prom in the run-up to it - really anything can help."
The Accrington Pals Prom Group meets each month and are keen to involve the whole community. They are also looking for local businesses to contribute, and those interested are invited to contact Anne Ellwood on 07805 923075.
The bandstand in Oakhill Park in Accrington will host the first ever ‘Pals Prom’ on Armed Forces Day on June 25, with a Last Night of the Proms-style performance by the East Lancashire Concert Band.
This is the first event to be organised by the Accrington Pals Prom Group, a group of volunteers committed to ensuring the commemorations become a regular annual event for Hyndburn.
Anne Ellwood, who chairs the the Accrington Pals Prom Group, said: “Our group is working in partnership with the Royal British Legion and the East Lancashire Concert Band will perform - the same band (then named Accrington Old Band) that played when the Pals were recruited in 1914.
Mrs Ellwood commented, “We are paying tribute to the Pals, but equally we are being respectful for those that died in other conflicts. It’s all very much about the armed forces, past and present.”
The prom precedes the Accrington Pals Centenary Commemorations on July 1, the first day of the Battle of the Somme in 1916, in which 584 of the Accrington Pals were killed or injured.
Mrs Ellwood said the group is now looking for support. “There are a lot of different ways that people can get involved, whether helping out on the day or volunteering to promote and support the prom in the run-up to it - really anything can help."
The Accrington Pals Prom Group meets each month and are keen to involve the whole community. They are also looking for local businesses to contribute, and those interested are invited to contact Anne Ellwood on 07805 923075.
1945 - Ban on Banana Imports Lifted!
The ban on the import of Bananas into the UK imposed by the Ministry of Food in November 1940 was partially lifted as Christmas 1945 approached.
The first delivery of bananas after the end of World War II arrived in Avonmouth, England, with ten million on board the Fyffes ship ‘SS Tilapa’. Pathe News carried the story in thousands of cinemas all over the world.
Children eating the first fruits on arrival had to be shown how to peel a banana and that you did not eat the skin!
Dress up and come and celebrate the return of the banana and the fantastic music of the era at Blackburn's Thwaites Empire Theatre at 7.30pm on Saturday 14 November. TEL 01254 685500
"Name That Tune!" with BBC Radio Lancashire
We enlisted the help of BBC Radio Lancashire's Sally Naden and Brett Davison this morning, 6th November 2015.
A 1940s "sing along" medley planned to played by the Band during "Music 1945!" includes one tune that sounds very familiar but we have not been able to name it, nor have we been able to find the words.
Despite it being played on air with an appeal to listeners to tell us the name we are still no wiser.
Please click on the "Play" button below to hear the piece. Phone 01204 303971 if you know the answer.
A 1940s "sing along" medley planned to played by the Band during "Music 1945!" includes one tune that sounds very familiar but we have not been able to name it, nor have we been able to find the words.
Despite it being played on air with an appeal to listeners to tell us the name we are still no wiser.
Please click on the "Play" button below to hear the piece. Phone 01204 303971 if you know the answer.
"Music of the Night" and "Music 1945!"
Rehearsals for "Music !945!" (Thwaites Empire Theatre, Blackburn 14th November 2015) were in full swing this morning, Sunday 18th October when we were visited by Jo Lester and here husband Dave. As well as other ensembles, Jo still runs the legendary "Art Lester Orchestra" founded by her father some 50 years ago. He was Musical Director at Manchester's Palace Theatre and worked with such big band greats as Joe Loss, Ken Mackintosh, Syd Philips, Stanley Black and Geraldo to name but a few. With this sort of music "in her blood" Jo has kindly agreed to be presenter / compere of "Music 1945!".
Taste of the 1940s at Preston Marriott Hotel - "Puttin' On the Ritz"
On Sunday 27th September, guests at the Royal British Legion Admiral Nurses afternoon tea party held in glorious sunshine at Preston's Marriott Hotel were treated to a taster of the 1940s music to be performed at our upcoming "Music 1945" concert.
This included Irving Berlin's "Puttin on the Ritz", as well as "Take the A Train" and "A String of Pearls" made popular by Glenn Miller. There were also selections from Sinatra and Cole Porter.
Thanks are due to the audience member from Accrington who joined in by playing "the spoons" during our final number. This resulted in demands for an encore not to be refused!
The team pictured below includes Carron Mayoh (Welfare Officer), Pauia Smith (Lead Admiral Nurse), Leah Richards (Admiral Nurse), Bill Burn (Membership Council Rep.), and Cath Green (Admiral Nurse Admin.)
(Click on each image for a larger picture. Photos courtesy of Viv Preston.)
This included Irving Berlin's "Puttin on the Ritz", as well as "Take the A Train" and "A String of Pearls" made popular by Glenn Miller. There were also selections from Sinatra and Cole Porter.
Thanks are due to the audience member from Accrington who joined in by playing "the spoons" during our final number. This resulted in demands for an encore not to be refused!
The team pictured below includes Carron Mayoh (Welfare Officer), Pauia Smith (Lead Admiral Nurse), Leah Richards (Admiral Nurse), Bill Burn (Membership Council Rep.), and Cath Green (Admiral Nurse Admin.)
(Click on each image for a larger picture. Photos courtesy of Viv Preston.)
Brief Encounter at Carnforth Railway Station
70 years ago David Lean's iconic film "Brief Encounter" starring Celia Johnson, Trevor Howard, Stanley Holloway and Joyce Carey was filmed on Carnforth Railway station. What better location than this for early promotion of our "Music 1945" event in November?
John Adams, Manager of Carnforth Station Heritage Centre, has kindly offered to put a few of our postersfor all visitors to see.
John Adams, Manager of Carnforth Station Heritage Centre, has kindly offered to put a few of our postersfor all visitors to see.
Serious Appetite for 1940's Music!
Further research took place at Bolton's Olympus restaurant during the 2015 August Bank Holiday Weekend and confirmed the serious appetite for 1940's music. Our Publicity Officer was welcomed by owner Tasus Pattichis, pictured with diners Margeret Gourmet and Roy Allen. Next to Sir Winston Churchill is manager Ali Sagar. Customers were entertained by members of Farnworth Performing Arts Society led by Sandra Blyth. As before, keen interest was shown in the "Music 1945" concert planned by ELCB on 14th November 2015 at Blackburn's Thwaites Empire Theatre.
"Music 1945"
News of the Band's planned concert on 14th November 2015 at Blackburn's Thwaites Empire Theatre was well received at Darwen's 1940's Day held on 22nd August in the town's market square.
Winston Churchill, civic leaders, all branches of the uniformed services and the civilian population thought it a splendid way to celebrate the approach of the first peace-time Christmas of 70 years ago.
Winston Churchill, civic leaders, all branches of the uniformed services and the civilian population thought it a splendid way to celebrate the approach of the first peace-time Christmas of 70 years ago.
Hyndburn's "Armed Forces Champion"
Congratulations to stalwart supporter of the Band, Councillor Judith Addison, who has just been elected Armed Forces Champion for the Borough of Hyndburn.
In March 2014 we had the pleasure of playing in Accrington Town Hall at a Charity Ball when Councillor Addison was Mayor.
She is pictured enjoying the sunshine and our music at the "Fusion Festival" in Rhyddings Park on Sunday 5th July 2015. It is the start of what will be a busy time leading up the the centenary of the Battle of the Somme and commemoration of the Accrington Pals on 1st July 2016.
"Salute" on Armed Forces Day
Another successful concert was performed
Dame Vera Lynn at Rehearsal
On Sunday 21st June 2015 we were joined by vocalist Stephanie Johnson,, "our very own Vera Lynn". She has kindly agreed to be a guest at our Armed Forces Day concert on 27th June. Stephanie sung with us at the Accrington Pals Centenary concert last September. This was recorded by BBC Radio Lancashire and broadcast on Christmas Day. Her performance will include a medley of songs:- We'll Meet Again, Now Is The Hour, From The Time You Say Goodbye, and The White Cliffs of Dover. The concert will have a "Last Night at the Proms" finale. |
Maritime Theme on Armed Forces Day - 27th june 2015
The maritime theme that featured at our Towneley Park performance on 7th June (See "Photos & Features" page.) will continue when we present our Armed Forces Day concert on 27th June at Thwaites Empire Theatre in Blackburn.
We will be joined by Steve Ragnall who has worked in local and regional radio as musician, writer, and presenter. He has lectured around the world on maritime history and is in big demand as a guest speaker on cruise ships. An acclaimed storyteller, his talks are illustrated with outstanding graphics and film clips. These will provide a backdrop to some of this evening’s performance in addition to singing a couple of his own songs.
Thanks Photographer! - Viv Preston
Not often pictured in front of the camera, Viv Preston who has taken most of the photographs used in this website during the past year is shown chatting with Chairman Nick Holme. This was during the interval of the Band's performance on 7th June 2015 at Burnley's Towneley Park in front of the biggest audience experienced at an outdoor event in recent years. The sun was shining and the whole atmosphere was fantastic.(See Photos & Features page.)
Chairman's "Mission" to West Yorkshire
The invitation that was circulated to Band members by organisers of Pennine Spring Music 2015 festival was taken up by our Chairman, Nick Holme.
He performed at Heptonstall (near Hebden Bridge) Parish Church with the orchestra and chorus in a programme including (on 26th May) Handel: Coronation Anthemns nos. 1 & 3, Britten: Matinees Musicales op. 24, and Beethoven: Symphony no. 5. and (on 30th May) Rutter: Requiem, Mahler: Symphony no. 4.
As part of his "missionary work" he distributed posters and leaflets promoting our Armed Forces Day concert on 27th June 2015.
Nick is pictured below with professional musicians Rebecca Robertson and Lawrence Killian.
He performed at Heptonstall (near Hebden Bridge) Parish Church with the orchestra and chorus in a programme including (on 26th May) Handel: Coronation Anthemns nos. 1 & 3, Britten: Matinees Musicales op. 24, and Beethoven: Symphony no. 5. and (on 30th May) Rutter: Requiem, Mahler: Symphony no. 4.
As part of his "missionary work" he distributed posters and leaflets promoting our Armed Forces Day concert on 27th June 2015.
Nick is pictured below with professional musicians Rebecca Robertson and Lawrence Killian.
Burnley's Towneley Park
On a wet Friday morning, 29th May 2015, our Promotions Officer met with Burnley Parks' Andy Buck to discuss arrangements to perform in Towneley Park on the lawn at the rear of Towneley Hall.
This will take place in the afternoon of Sunday 7th June. (See Forthcoming Events.) If the weather is wet, we will perform in the sumptuous surroundings of the Hall itself.
A visit to the Park and the Hall is an ideal way to welcome in the summer.
Chairman visits Preston's Fulwood Barracks
On 27th May 2015 Band Chairman, Nick Holme, visited the Lancashire Infantry Museum housed in historic Fulwood Barracks, Preston. This is and has been the literal and spiritual home of The Queen’s Lancashire Regiment and its successor and predecessor regiments for nearly 150 years.
He is pictured with Curator Jane Davies and Assistant Curator Dominic Butler. They are discussing plans for the Band's Armed Forces Day concert on 27th June and involvement with WW1 centenary commemoration Reveille Project on 27th July.
(See the Forthcoming Events listed on this website for more details.)
Update on BBC Tim Padfield's Visit in January 2015
Tim's interviews have been condensed into this short bulletin.
(Scroll down for our original news report.).
See http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p02lbccv i
or click below for sound only.
Tim's interviews have been condensed into this short bulletin.
(Scroll down for our original news report.).
See http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p02lbccv i
or click below for sound only.
Ramsbottom 1940s Weekend
Saturday afternoon 23rd of May saw the best of the weather for the 1940s weekend centred on St. Pauls Church and the East Lancashire Railway station in Ramsbottom. The Band’s publicity officer, Ian McGuiness, complete with his identity card, trombone, and a wartime gas mask case stuffed full of posters and leaflets was busy promoting our Armed Forces Day event on 27th June at Blackburn’s Thwaites Empire Theatre and discussing “Music 1945” on 14th November at the same venue.
On Armed Forces Day our aim is to help to raise funds for Burnley based veterans support organisation “Salute”. See:- http://www.saluteyou.org/
The “Music 1945” event will celebrate the approach of the first peace-time Christmas following the end of WW2. We will be wallowing in the fantastic Broadway musicals of the time and enjoying the popular songs of that era.
Thanks to all those who posed for the photographs and consented to being shown on this website.
"Pals March" Performed
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BBC Radio Lancashire's Tim Padfield at Sunday Rehearsal
On Sunday 25th January 2015, in the wake of our highly acclaimed Accrington Pals Centenary Concert in September and the December Christmas broadcasts, we were visited by Radio Lancashire's reporter Tim Padfield.
His interviews with several band members and sound-bites of the music being rehearsed are planned form part of the BBC's nationwide project "WW1 at Home" to be broadcast on Radio 3 later in the year
BBC TV North West Tonight Christmas Programme
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Accrington Movie Makers led by Ray Burrows kindly made this short video clip of the prepartations and behind the scenes. The background music is the introduction to “The Grenadiers” by Emile Waldteufel. It was recorded in September at Accrington Town Hall as part of the Accrington Pals Centenary concert and broadcast by BBC Radio Lancashire on Christmas Day and Boxing Day, 2014. |
BBC TV’s North West Tonight Christmas Programme was broadcast on 23rd December 2014 and focused on the first Christmas of the Great War, one hundred years ago. A major feature, the “Pals March” was performed by the Band.which In 1914 was the then named Accrington Old Band. They led a parade of the newly recruited “Accrington Pals” around the town and played popular marching songs of the day as the Mayor took the salute, standing proudly in front of Accrington Town Hall.
"Pals March" was composed in 1914 by Ralph Sanders as a piano piece. It was no doubt to celebrate the formation of the various “Pals” battalions around the country at that time. In February 2013 the music was arranged for wind band by Nick Holme, principal trumpet with ELCB. As a Band contribution towards to the WW1 Centenary Commemorations, our recording and the music has been made available free of charge (subject to due acknowledgemnt when publicly performed) to amateur ensembles and theatrical groups. Uptake has been significant and has spread as far afield as Australia. (See Photos & Features.)
As part of this live BBC programme broadcast from St. John the Evangelist Church, the spiritual home of the Accrington Pals”, a number of Christmas carols were also played and sung by the enthusiastic audience.
"Pals March" was composed in 1914 by Ralph Sanders as a piano piece. It was no doubt to celebrate the formation of the various “Pals” battalions around the country at that time. In February 2013 the music was arranged for wind band by Nick Holme, principal trumpet with ELCB. As a Band contribution towards to the WW1 Centenary Commemorations, our recording and the music has been made available free of charge (subject to due acknowledgemnt when publicly performed) to amateur ensembles and theatrical groups. Uptake has been significant and has spread as far afield as Australia. (See Photos & Features.)
As part of this live BBC programme broadcast from St. John the Evangelist Church, the spiritual home of the Accrington Pals”, a number of Christmas carols were also played and sung by the enthusiastic audience.
St. Mary's RC Junior School Oswaldtwistle study WW1 and the Accrington Pals
The bugle and big bass drum featured prominently as East Lancashire Concert Band’s publicity officer Ian McGuinness spent a most enjoyable afternoon with Year 5 pupils at St. Mary’s RC Junior School on 15th October 2014.
There was already an array of WW1 recruitment notices designed by the children on the classroom wall and Ian was able to display and explain a number of “monster” posters used by the Band in their recent Great War commemoration concerts. The Band’s proud connection with the Accrington Pals was highlighted.
There was a lively discussion about how wars come about as well as how music was heard in the early 1900’s before there was any TV or radio. Recorded music was then in its infancy and everyone joined in with tunes of the day on vintage records played on an old wind-up gramophone.
Year 5 Class Teacher Mr. Kevin Egan is pictured receiving a copy of the "History of the Band" and the "Souvenir Programme" from our recent Accrington Pals Centenary Concert.
There was already an array of WW1 recruitment notices designed by the children on the classroom wall and Ian was able to display and explain a number of “monster” posters used by the Band in their recent Great War commemoration concerts. The Band’s proud connection with the Accrington Pals was highlighted.
There was a lively discussion about how wars come about as well as how music was heard in the early 1900’s before there was any TV or radio. Recorded music was then in its infancy and everyone joined in with tunes of the day on vintage records played on an old wind-up gramophone.
Year 5 Class Teacher Mr. Kevin Egan is pictured receiving a copy of the "History of the Band" and the "Souvenir Programme" from our recent Accrington Pals Centenary Concert.
"Pals March" at Oswaldtwistle Civic Theatre
Peter Whelan's Play "The Accrington Pals" performed by Oswaldtwistle Players opened to an almost full-house at the Civic Theatre on 15th October 2014.
We are delighted that members of the cast were able to join us on stage at our Accrington Pals Centenary Concert on 27th and that their production included the Band's recording of "Pals March" in the sound effects at the end of their excellent presentation.
We are delighted that members of the cast were able to join us on stage at our Accrington Pals Centenary Concert on 27th and that their production included the Band's recording of "Pals March" in the sound effects at the end of their excellent presentation.
E.L.C.B. at Salford's Lowry Theatre
"Not About Heroes" (see below) was performed at the Lowry from 5th to 8th October 2014.
A recording of "Silver Threads Among the Gold" by the Band, featuring lead trumpeter Nick Holme, was played as the audience returned to their seats after the interval. The actors then came on stage to "distant strains of the Pals March". A great production!
See also: http://www.notaboutheroes.co.uk/
A recording of "Silver Threads Among the Gold" by the Band, featuring lead trumpeter Nick Holme, was played as the audience returned to their seats after the interval. The actors then came on stage to "distant strains of the Pals March". A great production!
See also: http://www.notaboutheroes.co.uk/
No Shortage of Young Recruits! |
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A demonstration of bugle calls as would have been heard by the Pals followed next. The children then gave three hearty cheers as they might have done after singing “God Save The King".
The week of activities culminates on Friday with a WW1 coffee afternoon. This is to raise funds for the Macmillan Nurses.
Teacher Mrs. Maria Ellel (Key Stage 2 Leader) is pictured with some of the children.
The week of activities culminates on Friday with a WW1 coffee afternoon. This is to raise funds for the Macmillan Nurses.
Teacher Mrs. Maria Ellel (Key Stage 2 Leader) is pictured with some of the children.
Press Call for "Not About Heroes" by Feelgood Theatre Productions
On 20th August 2014, "Accrington Pals Centenary Concert Task Force" band team members Nick Holme and Ian McGuinness attended a special rehearsal of the award-winning play by Stephen Macdonald "Not About Heroes" at Manchester's Capitol Theatre. Before a short season in London's West End, the production will tour the UK as well as visiting France.
See: http://www.notaboutheroes.co.uk/
Director Caroline Clegg introduced the actors who will play the parts of WW1 poets Wilfred Owen and Siegfried Sassoon. They are Simon Jenkins (Owen) and Alisdair Craig (Sassoon). Both have kindly volunteered to be narrators during our premiere performance of Dr. Peter Meechan's "Letters for Home" on 27th September 2014 at Accrington Town Hall.
After the formalities the recording of "Pals March" was played and Nick gave a short solo rendition of "It's A Long Way To Tipperary".
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Band Chairman Plays the "Last Post" at Burnley's Centenary of WW1 EventAs 11.00 pm on 4th August 2014 approached, our Band Chairman, Alan Isherwood, discharged to perfection the honour of of being the Bugler at Burnley's commemoration of the declaration of war, exactly 100 years ago.
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This was part of a moving ceremony in the grounds of Towneley Hall attended by more than a thousand people. Singing was led by Royal British Legion supporter Grace O'Malley. The ceremony included names and ages of local men who fell during the conflict being read out. Alan was earlier met by the Mayor and Mayoress of Burnley, Coun. Andy Tachell and his wife. He also had the opportunity to chat with WW2 veteran Denis Shiels, a resident of the Royal Hospital, Chelsea. Denis served as a Royal Marine and later as a Lancashire Fusilier. |
An excellent report and VIDEO was produced by the Burnley Express. Click this link to view: http://www.burnleyexpress.net/news/local/burnley-remembers-its-fallen-a-century-on-1-6768203
Accrington Lions donate "Accrington Pals" Centenary banners to the Band
On Friday 27th June 2014 the President of Accrington Lions, Caz Moreton, presented a new set of music stand banners to the Band for use at WW1 Commemoration Events. They bear the legend "Accrington Pals - Remembering 100 Years" in a design produced by Hyndburn Borough Council. Also included is the badge of the Accrington Lions who provide valuable support for a wide range of good causes in the area. This generous gift to us was acknowledged by Band Chairman, Alan Isherwood. We are proud to be able to display our historic links with the "Accrington Pals" in this way.
Hyndburn's Mayor, Councilor Musif Dad, and MP, Graham Jones, were on hand to witness these impressive banners being used for the first time. A small ensemble played in Broadway, near to the Town Hall. This is where the band played a century ago when the Pals marched past in front of the Mayor. Recruitment had just reached Battalion strength.
Hyndburn's Mayor, Councilor Musif Dad, and MP, Graham Jones, were on hand to witness these impressive banners being used for the first time. A small ensemble played in Broadway, near to the Town Hall. This is where the band played a century ago when the Pals marched past in front of the Mayor. Recruitment had just reached Battalion strength.
With BBC's "WW1 at Home" Roadshow in Blackpool 24th June 2014
Nick Holme, Ian McGuinness and Pam (Photographer) spent a hectic day at the "Pals" tent drawing in the crowds by playing brass, percussion and authentic recorded WW1 music on a vintage wind-up gramophone. We were located on the Promenade in front of Blackpool Tower along with various BBC television and radio crews who were broadcasting live. This event was part of a nationwide effort by the corporation to help chart the history of World War I. Local residents and visitors were encouraged to attend and share their family memories, memorabilia and any other items of historic interest.
Radio Lancashire's presenters Helen Randle and John Gillmore interviewed our team and Blackpool icon Charlie Ciaroli Jnr. stopped by to say "Hello". (Charlie will be joining us as a narrator during our Accrington Pals Centenary Concert when we perform the premiere of Peter Meechan's "Letters for Home" in September.
The Band's unique connections with the Accrington Pals was of particular interest to the many visitors. Some of our historic posters and other artifacts were on display as well as lots of information about the band's history.
Radio Lancashire's presenters Helen Randle and John Gillmore interviewed our team and Blackpool icon Charlie Ciaroli Jnr. stopped by to say "Hello". (Charlie will be joining us as a narrator during our Accrington Pals Centenary Concert when we perform the premiere of Peter Meechan's "Letters for Home" in September.
The Band's unique connections with the Accrington Pals was of particular interest to the many visitors. Some of our historic posters and other artifacts were on display as well as lots of information about the band's history.
Nick had an in-depth interview with Radio Lancashire's Helen Randle and played "Keep the Home Fires Burning". This proved so popular that he later played a number well known WW1 songs in the large theatre style tent whilst Ian led the singing. All the seats were taken and a large crowd also grew outside. Massive applause erupted at the end!
Click below to hear Nick's interview and select the Photos and Features page for many more images.
Click below to hear Nick's interview and select the Photos and Features page for many more images.
Atlas Centre War-time Lunch
Accrington Lions to sponsor special commemorative banners
Lion Tony Clarkson, Secretary of the Accrington Lions, called at the Civic Arts Centre during our Sunday 25th May rehearsal. He delivered the excellent news that the Lions were to fund the supply of special music stand banners for use at WW1 commemoration events.These will signify our historic links with the Accrington Pals. They will display Hyndburn's official "Accrington Pals Remembered" logo well as that of the Lions, whose own origins in the UK date back to days of war time strife.
Tony Clarkson is pictured with Publicity Officer Ian McGuinness and Musical Director Dale Grindrod.
Tony Clarkson is pictured with Publicity Officer Ian McGuinness and Musical Director Dale Grindrod.
"Letters for Home" delivered safely!
In October 2013 we reported Dr. Peter Meechan being commissioned to compose a new piece of music. The composition was delivered to us on 8th May 2014. Rehearsals can now start.
As described in Dr.Meechan’s Programme Notes, his three movement work, “Letters for Home” is to commemorate the start of the First World War and the role played by the “Accrington Pals” Before each movement a reading should be made – it may be a letter sent from the Front, WW1 poetry, thoughts and reflections recorded elsewhere.
Whilst specifically concerned with the First World War, each of the movements broadly outlines emotions that would form part of any soldier’s life during any war – and as such, performances of this work can easily be adapted to reflect other conflicts, both modern and historical.
The first movement, “The Bittersweet Love Song” is the story of a soldier saying goodbye to his loved one before leaving for war. The opening passages are of the soldier, perhaps putting to the back of his mind the danger he is facing, singing a love song to his wife or girlfriend. In the following passages we hear his loved one singing “I love you”, played by the flute section.
We again hear the soldier singing – this time with more of a sense of what lies ahead for him, but now the response is further away as they gradually move more distant from each other. The movement ends without conclusion, but with chords for the soldier’s song played hauntingly over the percussion.
The second movement, “The Trench”, is more self-explanatory. It combines bravado in the percussion opening with the whole band coming together as one – as a unit, before again we hear fear and trepidation in the brass, once more failing to reach a resolution. Perhaps the thoughts of the soldier are interrupted as the percussion once more calls the men to arms. The movement ends with gun shots in the percussion.
The final movement, “In Memory”, opens with a repetition of the love song from the opening movement, before a slow lament, again never resolving, is heard. It keeps finding a new key, a new place, intending to represent the cyclical nature of war, and again without resolution, suggesting that war is also often that way.
The work was commissioned by East Lancashire Concert Band with support from Arts Council England. The premiere performance will take place in September 2014 at the Town Hall, Accrington, home of the Accrington Pals.
As described in Dr.Meechan’s Programme Notes, his three movement work, “Letters for Home” is to commemorate the start of the First World War and the role played by the “Accrington Pals” Before each movement a reading should be made – it may be a letter sent from the Front, WW1 poetry, thoughts and reflections recorded elsewhere.
Whilst specifically concerned with the First World War, each of the movements broadly outlines emotions that would form part of any soldier’s life during any war – and as such, performances of this work can easily be adapted to reflect other conflicts, both modern and historical.
The first movement, “The Bittersweet Love Song” is the story of a soldier saying goodbye to his loved one before leaving for war. The opening passages are of the soldier, perhaps putting to the back of his mind the danger he is facing, singing a love song to his wife or girlfriend. In the following passages we hear his loved one singing “I love you”, played by the flute section.
We again hear the soldier singing – this time with more of a sense of what lies ahead for him, but now the response is further away as they gradually move more distant from each other. The movement ends without conclusion, but with chords for the soldier’s song played hauntingly over the percussion.
The second movement, “The Trench”, is more self-explanatory. It combines bravado in the percussion opening with the whole band coming together as one – as a unit, before again we hear fear and trepidation in the brass, once more failing to reach a resolution. Perhaps the thoughts of the soldier are interrupted as the percussion once more calls the men to arms. The movement ends with gun shots in the percussion.
The final movement, “In Memory”, opens with a repetition of the love song from the opening movement, before a slow lament, again never resolving, is heard. It keeps finding a new key, a new place, intending to represent the cyclical nature of war, and again without resolution, suggesting that war is also often that way.
The work was commissioned by East Lancashire Concert Band with support from Arts Council England. The premiere performance will take place in September 2014 at the Town Hall, Accrington, home of the Accrington Pals.
The "Pals March" and drama groups.
The "ACCRINGTON PALS" play by Peter Whelan is being performed by an increasing number of amateur drama groups as part of the Great War Centenary commemorations.
A number of such groups have expressed an interest in using our recording of the "Pals" March* as part of their sound effects or as background music for their performances.
Subject to conditions, our arranger Nick Bonneville and the Band will make the recording available without charge.
If this of interest, please contact us.
*See (and hear) the Photos and Features page for 21 February 2013
A number of such groups have expressed an interest in using our recording of the "Pals" March* as part of their sound effects or as background music for their performances.
Subject to conditions, our arranger Nick Bonneville and the Band will make the recording available without charge.
If this of interest, please contact us.
*See (and hear) the Photos and Features page for 21 February 2013
"Play it Again" Open Day in Blackburn Mall on 20th February 2014
Chairman Alan Isherwood, Lead Trumpet Nick Holme, and Publicity Officer Ian McGuinness play "The British Grenadiers" with "guest" John Cowking (Slaidburn Silver Band) on euphonium.to entertain a stream of visitors as part of this event organised by Radio Lancashire, Making Music, Lancashire County Council and Voluntary Arts England. Also present were Clitheroe Ukelele Club and Orchestra in Folkus.
Up For Arts
In December 2013 we were contacted by Helen Randle of BBC Radio Lancashire. They were planning to run some ‘play it again’ sessions in the New Year, an initiative with Making Music, the organisation of which we are members
They are trying to encourage listeners to pick up an instrument….and it was felt that ELCB was just the sort of group they would like to work with.
This led to being invited into the Blackburn studio during the morning of 29th January 2014 and for a small ensemble to perform live and to be interviewed.
Following a recorded message by Making Music Regional Director Stuart Isaac, our brass quintet played Sousa’s “Liberty Bell”. Each member was than asked about their instrument and how they had been introduced to music.
Our players were:- Barry Bleasedale (Tuba), Musical Director - Dale Grindrod (Trombone), Neil Edwards (Tenor horn), Arlene Cunliffe (Cornet), and Nick Holme (Trumpet).
Presenter Brett Davison then turned to Ian McGuinness (Publicity Officer) to ask about the Band’s drive to recruit new members and in particular about the Band’s connection with the Accrington Pals and commemorations being planned for the centenary of the First World War.
The musicians rounded the session off by playing a special arrangement by Nick Holmes of Bobby McFerrin’s catchy song “Don’t Worry, Be Happy”.
Following the live broadcast Ian McGuinness was interviewed by Helen Randle and asked about new music being commissioned to commemorate the Pals and WW1. This was recorded and broadcast at different times later that same day.
For photographs and to listen to the music select our "Photos & Features" page.
They are trying to encourage listeners to pick up an instrument….and it was felt that ELCB was just the sort of group they would like to work with.
This led to being invited into the Blackburn studio during the morning of 29th January 2014 and for a small ensemble to perform live and to be interviewed.
Following a recorded message by Making Music Regional Director Stuart Isaac, our brass quintet played Sousa’s “Liberty Bell”. Each member was than asked about their instrument and how they had been introduced to music.
Our players were:- Barry Bleasedale (Tuba), Musical Director - Dale Grindrod (Trombone), Neil Edwards (Tenor horn), Arlene Cunliffe (Cornet), and Nick Holme (Trumpet).
Presenter Brett Davison then turned to Ian McGuinness (Publicity Officer) to ask about the Band’s drive to recruit new members and in particular about the Band’s connection with the Accrington Pals and commemorations being planned for the centenary of the First World War.
The musicians rounded the session off by playing a special arrangement by Nick Holmes of Bobby McFerrin’s catchy song “Don’t Worry, Be Happy”.
Following the live broadcast Ian McGuinness was interviewed by Helen Randle and asked about new music being commissioned to commemorate the Pals and WW1. This was recorded and broadcast at different times later that same day.
For photographs and to listen to the music select our "Photos & Features" page.
Peter Aspden
We are saddened to learn of the sudden death on Wednesday 22nd January 2014 of our Band colleague, Peter. He was in good spirits when many of us had been in rehearsal with him only a few days before. He had, however, been bravely battling with cancer for quite some time.
He was stalwart member of the Band and a versatile reed player, most recently on tenor and baritone saxophone.
He was also a gifted arranger. His legacy includes an excellent arrangement of Erroll Garner's song "Misty" composed in 1954 and made popular by Johnny Mathis.
He also arranged the hymn tune "Accrington" for the Band and performed in Accrington Library in May 2013.
We will remember him fondly.
He was stalwart member of the Band and a versatile reed player, most recently on tenor and baritone saxophone.
He was also a gifted arranger. His legacy includes an excellent arrangement of Erroll Garner's song "Misty" composed in 1954 and made popular by Johnny Mathis.
He also arranged the hymn tune "Accrington" for the Band and performed in Accrington Library in May 2013.
We will remember him fondly.
New Music to Commemorate WW1 Centenary
On 6th October 2013 composer Dr Peter Meechan visited East Lancashire Concert Band during their regular Sunday morning rehearsal at the Civic Arts Centre, Oswaldtwistle.
He was greeted by Musical Director, Dale Grindrod, before being introduced to the Band.A contract to commission him to write new music commemorating the Centenary of WW1 and the PALS battalions was then signed by Band Secretary, Arlene Cunliffe.
He was greeted by Musical Director, Dale Grindrod, before being introduced to the Band.A contract to commission him to write new music commemorating the Centenary of WW1 and the PALS battalions was then signed by Band Secretary, Arlene Cunliffe.
This initiative is funded by Arts Council England and is one of several projects being promoted by Hyndburn Council's Accrington Pals Centenary Commemoration Group.
It is planned to perform the completed work as part of a special concert to be held at Accrington Town Hall on Saturday 27th September 2014.
Dr Meechan is Composer in Residence to HM Band of the Coldstream Guards and Musical Associate with the Foden Brass Band
It is planned to perform the completed work as part of a special concert to be held at Accrington Town Hall on Saturday 27th September 2014.
Dr Meechan is Composer in Residence to HM Band of the Coldstream Guards and Musical Associate with the Foden Brass Band