Dunston Silver Band
The Dunston Band (1968)
Dunston Band had a successful trip to Heererween, Holland, where they took part in an International Music Festival and Contest. In addition to the Festival, they also played in various Dutch towns and conveyed to the Mayors greetings from Councillor C.B. Westgarth, the Chairman of the Council.
A Short History of Dunston Silver Band
Musical Director: Alan Seymour
Dunston Silver Band has been in existence since at least 1902 when the band was asked to play for the laying of a foundation stone at the Methodist Chapel in Dunston.
In 1913 the band performed at the Crystal Palace under the direction of Mr. Alf Gale of Dunston Bank.
During the Second World War, the band exchanged their uniforms for those of the Home Guard.
In the 1960s the band conducted several tours of Austria. Switzerland and Italy at a time when touring bands were still something of a novelty. A small book documenting one such tour was published (price sixpence).
The band fell on hard times in the 1980's and all but disappeared. However, in 1987 a dedicated group came together, determined to re-build the band.
In the early 1990's the band was sponsored by the Metro Centre and often played in the centre
Over the years, the band has maintained its local connections, particularly with the Methodist Community in Dunston and has received the support of Gateshead Council.
In 2002 the Federation Brewery sponsored the production of a CD, 'High Level Brass', named after their 'High Level' brown ale.
Also in 2002, the band won the 4th Section at the Cumbrian Contest in Whitehaven, the band's best contest result since best 4th Section/Unregistered band at the Ripon Contest in 1999
Dunston Silver Band Today
Dunston Silver Band is a registered contesting band which is currently in the 4th Section nationally and in Section D of the Durham County Brass Band Association. As well as contests, the band undertakes a busy programme of engagements of various types including evening concerts, parks, summer fetes and festivals and Beamish Museum.
The band also plays at the Durham Miners' Gala on the second Saturday in July every year, leading in the Leasingthorne Colliery Banner on behalf Leahome Club, near Bishop Auckland. This is something of a social occasion as well a band job and is a popular event with all bands swelling their numbers for the day with players from other bands which are not participating in the event.
The band has also gone to the Whit Friday contests around Saddleworth in recent years. This can attract players from other bands, as the day can be something of a social event.
The band runs a number of workshops with professional tutors throughout the year to help to improve the performance of the band and to provide interest and opportunity for individual players.
The band also remembers that all work and no play (or all play and no fun) can be dull, so a number of social events are held throughout the year.
See contact page for up-to-date information