Concert kickstarts band anniversary celebrations

ANNAN Town Band’s 125th anniversary celebrations get underway next weekend as they host their annual spring concert.

The event at St John’s Church in Dumfries on Friday May 1 will be the first of a series of events throughout the year to mark the milestone anniversary of one of the region’s oldest musical groups.

Band spokeswoman Charlotte MacKay said: “There are records of a brass band in Annan going back to the 1830s, but we officially became known as Annan Town Band in 1901 and that is really where our full history begins.

“It’s already been an incredible year for the band as we gained another podium placing at the Scottish Championships last month, and our spring concert is the start of a full summer of celebrations for our 125th anniversary.”

Under the baton of resident conductor Ross Bahlaj, the concert will feature music from the stage and screen alongside some of the band’s favourite popular pieces.

It will also include a performance by Annan Town Youth Band, who will showcase some of the music they have been working on.

Charlotte added: “Our youth band have made incredible progress in a very short space of time, and they absolutely wowed the crowds at their own concert in Brydekirk last month, so we’re very pleased that they’ll be joining us at the spring concert.”

Annan Town Band band attracts players aged 11-80+ from across Dumfries and Galloway and northern Cumbria, with some members making a round trip of 180 miles to attend rehearsals.

Their recent Scottish Championships success means they have now finished on the podium at six of their last seven competitions, including section victories at the Borders Entertainment Contest, Brass at Beamish and the Fife Charities contest.

Tickets for the spring concert are available from Petsavers in Annan, from band members, or pay on the door on arrival (free entry for under 12s).