Bracknell & Wokingham Community Band
Our Musicians
We asked a selection of our musicians what they like about playing in our bands and what made them pick up an instrument and join BWCB. This should give you an indication of the variety of musicians and the reasons they joined us.
Liz, Beaufort Band, Saxaphone
I'm a self taught saxophonist, I started on the trumpet then French horn. I last played the soprano/alto saxophone around 30 years ago. I have never taken any grades. I used to play in Rotunda show band and a youth orchestra. I stoped playing when I finished college.
After being made redundant and starting a new job in a school seeing the students playing in the orchestra made me think I wish I could play the saxophone again. I bought a saxophone and started playing with the students and that was it, the passion was flowing again, but I needed to play more. I scrolled through the internet and eventually found Beaufort Band. No auditions, No grades needed. I was welcomed with open arms. So, after 30 years I was back playing. For me coming back to the saxophone was like rediscovering a piece of my own voice that had been quiet for too long. It brings me a sense of joy, creativity and relaxation that nothing else can do. Picking up an instrument again felt like reconnecting with an old friend.
I have an electric saxophone so can practice without disturbing my neighbours. Practicing years ago was always a problem for me, living in shared accommodation. All good now though.
Sonia, Second Wind Band, Bassoon
Why did you join the band ? I worked hard to learn the bassoon as an adult but wasn't really playing regularly - joining Second Wind enabled me to meet some friendly musicians on a weekly basis and perform in some great concerts.
What do you get out of playing in the band? The chance to play music to a good standard in a friendly band - we have an experienced conductor and our performances are always very enjoyable.
What was your musical background when you joined the band? Singing in a high-quality London chamber choir. Learning the bassoon to Grade 8 in later life was an anti-ageing challenge, which also opened up new opportunities - it's never to late to learn! How long have you played in the band?Six years - but six years well spent!
Anything else you want to highlight ? I would encourage players to dig out their instruments and get back into playing by joining a BWCB band that's right for them.
Romano, Beaufort Band, Trumpet
Why did you join the band? I joined the band on the recommendation of a friend who was playing in 2nd Wind.
What do you get out of playing in the band? I really enjoy the ensemble nature of it; the playing and seeing how, over time, the different musical sections come together. I enjoy doing something out of my comfort zone and unrelated to my work life. It gives me space to switch off and focus on my own wellbeing.
What was your musical background when you joined the band?
Hardly anything. I only started learning the trumpet a couple of years before joining the band. Before that, I couldn’t read music or play any instrument… my family would say I still can’t!
How long have you played in the band? This is my third year in the band. Each year, I can rate my progress by seeing how much easier it is to play the standard Christmas songs.
Why did you choose to join BWCB? I was looking for a band that would be tolerant of my lack of music background. Beaufort has been wonderful in being very welcoming and encouraging. It has allowed me to develop as a player, despite my many mistakes.
What do you enjoy being in the band? Could even be playing music pieces. The music we play is very diverse, covering a range of different types and styles, including popular, classical and, my favourite, jazz.
Anything else you want to highlight? It’s scary joining a band with almost no musical background but I am so glad that I took that first step. It has enriched my life.
Roger, Second Wind Band, Drum Kit
Roger has been playing the drums for 15 years and joined Second Wind in preference to the band he was currently in, playing in Second Wind since the band was formed.
Roger had no formal musical education before joining the band and virtually no sight reading skills and says playing in the band is a lovely challenge for him.
Roger never set out to play drums…he just happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time !