A brass band is about to be formed in Callander. Two rehearsals have already taken place and encouraging sounds have already been heard! 18 players took part in the first rehearsal, and 25 played at the second, with 10 enthusiastic learners keen to have a go. The level of expertise is varied – as one would expect in a new ensemble – and there are a few trumpets and a couple of French horns in the group, but why not, for starters? Ian Milligan of the band would like to appeal to the brass bands of Scotland for some help in establishing a brass band presence in the shadow of Scotlands beautiful Trossachs area. Ian writes:-
"We have been fortunate to have been given some music to get us up and running, as well as the loan of a couple of cornets, horns, baritones, one euphonium and a bass.
We are in process of looking at funding issues, including grants from as many agencies as possible, and local fund-raising ventures. We will get there eventually, but meantime we are looking for assistance from bands across the Central belt.
If any of you could possibly give, lend or sell us any of your spare/ old/ unwanted/ un-needed instruments in the short term, until we are able to purchase instruments of our own, it would be very much appreciated.
In addition, if any of you have unwanted music in your libraries which you are unlikely to use again – instead of throwing it away, or letting it gather dust and take up valuable space in your cupboards, please consider letting us have it. Reasonably straightforward repertoire rather than contest test pieces would be preferable!!
Many thanks in anticipation of a reasonable response. I can be contacted on 01877 330396.