Tredegar Town Band Is one of five shortlistees for the 2023 RPS Inspiration Award, voted for by the public. Although voting has now closed, we invite you to read about this year's shortlisted entities.
The last 12 months have been exceptional in the history of the Tredegar Band, which has been a positive force in Wales and the British brass band movement for over 150 years. This year, they became the first band to give two BBC Proms performances in one season, and their Vaughan Williams recording with guest conductor Martyn Brabbins was widely praised and reached number two in the Official Classical Chart. With a worldwide reputation in brass band competitions, the band is also known for innovative collaborations with filmmakers and ballet company Rambert Dance.
Members of the Tredegar Band meet at least twice a week, fitting rehearsals around their day jobs. An integral part of their local community, they hold regular beginner sessions to inspire young people to take up brass and percussion instruments, and provide instruments and tuition free of charge. The band is committed to improving access to classical music and has also supported children from local schools to hear an orchestral concert in Cardiff for the first time, with the BBC National Orchestra of Wales. 95% of children who attended had not been to a live music concert before, and none had heard an orchestra perform.
‘Tredegar represents everything I love about brass band music making; inclusive and adventurous, committed, dedicated, fearless and fun. We always look to challenge expectations and break down stereotypes – from appearing on film and television to playing at the Proms this year at the Royal Albert Hall. Everything is geared by excellence and understanding – showcasing to traditional as well as new audiences the scope and versatility of the modern brass band. The buzz is immense – and so is the sense of satisfaction that comes from doing something with friends that share that sense of determination and communal pride.’
Ben, baritone horn
‘Why do I love playing with Tredegar Band? Not only do we perform at a world class level on our travels but every week we maintain the strongest possible link to our local community. From a CD that got to number 2 in the official Classical Music Charts and performing twice at the BBC Proms this year to giving free tuition to local children, having a thriving community band and ensuring we provide the music to major local events. That is what true community music making is all about – and why I’m so proud to be a part of it.’
Wilson, cornet
