Would you like to learn to play a brass instrument…for free?

Heathfield Silver Band is a lively local brass band that has been in existence since the 1880s. We are currently looking for new members. All ages are welcome and whether you are an experienced player, have had a break from playing or are an absolute beginner, we’d love to hear from you.

With cuts to the funding of music education in schools, many children and adults have not had the opportunity to play with others and feel the joy and satisfaction that that can bring. So we are offering the opportunity for local people to either join the band, or join our training band if they need lessons or would like to brush up their skills. We can provide free instrument hire and free tuition. Adults pay a small membership subscription, but under 18s are free. We play many styles of music, from military marches to pop, TV and film music, as well as Christmas tunes later in the year. We have our own rehearsal room in Heathfield. Training band sessions are from 6.45-7.45pm, band rehearsals are from 7.30-9.30pm, every Tuesday.

To coincide with this rejuvenation of the band, we are delighted to announce that Michael Pilley has been appointed as the band’s new Musical Director.

Michael has vast musical experience and a passion for brass bands. He started his brass life in Australia, both at school and in the Salvation Army, and then graduated as a Bachelor of Music from Melbourne University. Michael moved to the UK in 2012 and played with the award-winning Tredegar Brass Band in South Wales and other groups, including some he has started from scratch.

Most recently Michael has been appointed a visiting brass music teacher working in East Sussex Schools. He is keen to foster a love of brass music in young people and to ensure the future of our brass bands which are such an important feature of community and national life.

Apart from being a very experienced conductor, Michael is an accomplished trombonist, transcriber, music engraver, competition-winning composer and arranger – for more information please see - www.michaelpilleymusic.com

Michael will be building on the superb foundations laid by the outgoing Musical Director, Sarah Leeves, who departs after ten years. Sarah has been at the heart of Heathfield Silver Band, leading from the front and continually improving playing and performance. Sarah’s energy, determination and musical excellence enabled the band to develop and grow, performing at a wide range of events including summer fairs, concerts and bonfire marches. She has always gone above and beyond, and the band will miss her enthusiasm and positive energy.

If you are interested in coming along to see how you get on, email secretary@heathfieldsilverband.com 

For more information, visit our website: www.heathfieldsilverband.com