Our History...
The band was formed in 1958 as an adult further education class and was named the Grange Band, after the education centre. From the onset the school authorities provided the practice facilities and instruments, but slowly as the band became ever more popular and successful, it started to raise sufficient funds to purchase it’s own instruments. In the early 1970’s the band became independent from the education authority to allow younger players to join and was re-named the Harwich Concert Band. With a larger spectrum of players the band now enjoyed greater success, and won many prizes in regional brass band competitions. During this period the band purchased it’s familiar blue concert jackets that are still worn today. Unfortunately during the 1980’s the popularity of the band started to decline and it struggled to keep many of its players, and by 1989 there were only 6 remaining.

In the latter part of 1992 efforts were made to rejuvenate the band and a vigorous recruiting campaign started. A new musical director was appointed and many new players were recruited, allowing the band to continue playing. During 1994 the band became sponsored by the Harwich branch of the Royal British Legion, and thus adopted the name The Harwich Royal British Legion Brass Band. The sponsorship gave the band much needed stability and yet again it grew in popularity.

During the summer of 2000 the band appointed its current musical director, Mr Antony Sanders. The band is continuing to go from strength to strength. Since 2000 the Band has toured overseas to southern Spain, Holland and three Europeade Festivals in Belgium, France and Denmark. Today the band consists of over 35 players of all ages ranging from 11 years old to mid-sixties. Most of our concerts are performed within the Tendring peninsula and many are given in aid of local charities including the RBL poppy appeal.

Interesting Reads about our History...

Harwich Bands - By David Cawdell

The Grange Band - By Charles Corroyer

When I Hear That Sound - By Charles Corroyer

Ben Simpson - A Brief Profile of a Former Player