Renowned Brass Band in Cheshire Faces Rehearsal Space Uncertainty

A brass band based in Cheshire, established over a century ago, is concerned about potentially losing its rehearsal premises due to a change in the designated use of its current location. Foden’s Band, which has operated from Sandbach since 1902, has toured internationally and secured nearly every significant brass band championship. Nevertheless, their participation in the European Championships in May is now jeopardized after receiving an eviction notice for Bradwall Village Hall, their current base. Band manager Mark Wilkinson stated, “Trying to find something in such a small area where we are based that ticks all the boxes is proving extremely difficult.” Throughout its history, the band has adopted several names, reflecting its different sponsors. Local industrialist Edward Foden founded the ensemble, attracting “the best players in the land” by providing them with housing and employment at his truck-building company. Currently, the band’s expenses are financed through ticket sales from the 35 annual performances. In addition to the main ensemble, there is a community band comprising 20 members and a youth band with 60 members. The primary ensemble presently holds the title of double British champion brass band and is recognized as the world’s top-ranked band. Mr Wilkinson commented, “We’ve won every major title that there is – we’ve won numerous national championships, we’ve won the American brass band championships, we’ve also won the Swiss brass band championships, as well as every contest that there actually is in this country.” He explained that locating a suitably sized rehearsal facility in Sandbach has been challenging, primarily due to the requirement for a venue accessible throughout the week. This would allow equipment to remain on-site on non-rehearsal days, thereby reducing setup and pack-down times. The band also showcases historical artifacts that commemorate its past. Mr Wilkinson stated, “Where we rehearse at the moment, we have a museum, of the artefacts we’ve built up over the past 100 years. We’ve got a vast library that we need access to.” Having been a band member for 32 years, he has managed prior difficulties, such as a severe fire in 2016 which obliterated their former premises and a significant portion of their archives. He now hopes that a new location can be secured to ensure both the band’s immediate competitive achievements and its continued existence. Further updates from BBC Stoke & Staffordshire are available on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X, and Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external sites. Details on their external linking approach are available.