Double header concert events will mark brass band's big birthday
Reporter: Ken Bennett
Date published: 18 February 2025

The Dobcross Silver Band
A famous brass band is celebrating its 150th foundation with glorious double-headed concert events.
Dobcross Silver Band, based in the heart of the village at Dobcross Band Club, has an outstanding tradition for developing musical talent and performing quality music for our community and beyond.
They welcome players of all ages and have overseen the development of many highly talented individuals, many reaching elite levels.
Over the years, the Silver Band has performed at the top levels of brass banding and also experiencing several low points when its future has been in doubt, even quite recently.
However, since current Musical Director Jason Smith arrived in 2019 the fortunes of the band have been transformed, and they were crowned fourth section National champions in 2022, and have have continued to win trophies regularly since then.
They have also enjoyed great success in recent years in the Whit Friday Band Contests and host top level visiting bands at their club each month under the 'Showcase Brass' initiative to help ensure the club remains home of all that is best in brass banding.
The next one is Ashton Band on March 23 at 2pm.
The first commemorative concert is on Saturday, March 29 in the beautiful setting of tHoly Trinity Church where they will be joined by guest soloist Mike Cavanagh, solo baritone, with the Black Dyke Band.
Mike played for a number of years with the Silver Band and has since become one of the most talented young musicians in the country.
Please support this event - tickets are available now from the Band Club, the Village Store (on re-opening) or from Andy, the Black Band Chairman.
In November, the band will stage a Gala concert in the Civic Hall Uppermill, where they will be joined by the highly successful Dobcross Youth / Training Bands and the Dobcross Brass Monkeys, who continue to progress under MD Phil Cumberworth.
This event will showcase the range of talent which continues to be developed and nurtured in Dobcross.
During the year there will be a full programme of activities, including all the popular favourites, prestigious contests such as the Buxton Festival and of course the incomparable Whit Friday
A spokesperson said: "Please come and support the band as we celebrate this major landmark and help ensure the band continues to prosper well past 150 years and preserve its legacy for future generations.”
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