The Midsomer Norton Community Band (MSNCB) celebrated its first birthday earlier this month with an open rehearsal for friends, family and supporters at the Town Hall.

Well-wishers were treated to birthday cake (kindly donated by Tesco) and cups of tea whilst they got a sneak preview of the band rehearsing for their upcoming performances.

“We are so thrilled to be celebrating this special occasion with the Band and their families and friends,” said Amanda Garland, music leader. “These musicians are amazing – they attend every Tuesday and never fail to stun us with their commitment and talent. They make a fantastic sound,” adds conductor, Fiona Langley.

The MSNCB comprises of musicians ranging from eleven to eighty-years, who love playing all kinds of music and want to share their enjoyment of music with the wider community.

The band has grown two fold over the past year, and the standard continues to improve. “I came and heard you at the Terry Hill concert last Christmas and you were great,” said Lynda Robertson, Town Councillor, to the band, “but the difference from the first time I heard you to today is stunning!”

As a result – following the success of last year’s collaboration, the MSNCB are teaming up with the Terry Hill band again at the Town Hall on Sunday, 9th December for a joint concert. The band will also be busking outside Tesco on Saturday, 8th December to serenade the Christmas shoppers with a variety of Christmassy tunes.

“We had a great birthday party” says Katharine North, music leader. “If this is what the band are capable of after a year – we are very excited to see how it progresses over the next year!”

The MSNCB practices at 4.30 p.m. every Tuesday at the Town Hall. If you play a wind or percussion instrument to Grade 2 standard or above and would like to join us, please email: [email protected]

Katharine North