Breckland Brass Band is marking 75 years of music-making with a special live performance at Thetford Academy later this month.
Members of the Training Band at Thetford Academy
Breckland Brass Band is celebrating the 75th anniversary of its founding as Greens Works Bros Band in Brandon in 1951. The original green jackets are still worn for formal occasions, now joined by colourful T-shirts. By 1971, Greens Timber Works could no longer sponsor the band, so the name changed to Breckland Brass Band and local musicians continued independently.
The band continues to bring music, community spirit and opportunity to players of all ages in Thetford and Brandon. It has built a reputation for friendly rehearsals and enjoyable performances, and is now preparing a special screening of the Wallace and Gromit film A Grand Day Out with live brass band accompaniment.
Breckland Brass Band rehearses at Thetford Academy on Wednesdays from 6.45pm to 8.45pm, performing a mix of traditional brass band favourites, film music and modern arrangements. The band regularly performs at concerts and community events, with proceeds helping to fund instruments, music and uniforms.
Alongside the main band is the Training Band, an important stepping stone for developing musicians. It rehearses on Mondays from 3pm to 4pm at Thetford Academy, offering a supportive environment where players can build confidence and skills, with many progressing into the main band.
For those completely new to brass playing, a Brass Beginners group is also open to Thetford Academy pupils, providing an opportunity to learn an instrument and enjoy making music together.
For more information, visit brecklandbrassband.org.uk or contact brecklandbrassband@gmail.com.
