THE TRUE origins of Abergavenny town band are unknown, but it is believed that the band has enjoyed over 124 years proud association with the town.

There was certainly a band in the town before 1884 and records show that 1906 was the year that the band used the title Borough in its name and was permitted to use the borough coat of arms and call themselves the Borough Silver Band.

Today sees a very different band. The development of new music spans the range from the traditional to the modern, from the classical to the popular genres, and means they can play music to entertain all.

The Abergavenny Borough Band, a registered charity, has always nurtured its young players into musically astute members of its senior band.

The chairman, Andrew Richards, said: "This is part of our continuing commitment to the young people of the community and we are proud that the youth band has grown in ability and stature to such an extent that it now takes concert engagements of its own."

Membership is open to all under 18 years of age and they provide musical training and the loan of a brass instrument. The youth band also takes adult learners and in the last two years has welcomed five such people who have taken up playing a brass instrument.

The senior band has a very busy calendar each year. They are a contesting band and much of the hard work of rehearsals revolves around test pieces for the half a dozen competitions they enter each year.

Mr Richards added: "The band also takes the name of the town abroad, participating in twinning events in Beaupreau and Missilac. This year we were invited to Menorca over Easter where we participated in parades and gave concerts."

If you are a brass player with experience of the tuba or cornet you are invited to enquire about current vacancies, and you are promised a warm welcome. You can also book the band for events. Visit the band at abergavennyboroughband.org.uk for more details.