Formed in January of 1998, Haywards Heath Concert Brass Band provides an opportunity for people of all ages to learn and play brass instruments within an accomplished brass band.

The roots of the band stem from the Scout and Guide movements. Up to the the end of 1997, Haywards Heath was home to one of the premier Scout and Guide Concert Bands, but it was decided to broaden the base of the band and open the activity to all, rather than restrict membership to members of the two movements. The Haywards Heath Scout and Guide Band thus closed in December 1997 and the new band was formed the following month.

The history of the Scout and Guide Band goes back some twenty-five years and in that time it was invited and performed at many important and prestigious events throughout the United Kingdom and in Europe and the United States of America. Among the most notable were performances at Windsor over four days as part of the 1977 jubilee celebrations. It culminated in the grand finale procession, which the band led and Her Majesty The Queen lit the first beacon to signal the lighting of beacons across the Kingdom. The band also played at functions held at London's Royal Albert Hall, the Guildhall and Wembley Arena.

In the late 1980's the band twice entered and won outright the World Carnival Band championships and during its twenty-five year's existence won many national awards and, on a number of occasions, performed before members of the Royal Family and Government. It became known nationally for providing both a dedicated and quality performance.

Following the formation of Haywards Heath Concert Brass all members of the closed Scout and Guide Band joined up as well as players who had played with that and other bands in the past. The band plays between 35 and 40 muscians and would normally expect there to be about 12 new members in training.

The band is totally self-supporting without any sponsorship and none of the personnel receive any payment for services rendered. It is felt by the Management Commitee that the main function of the band should be to fulfil and support charity events and provide musical training and the opportunity to play to those residing in the locality. Members do pay subscriptions which offset the costs of hiring practice rooms.

It is intended that over the next few years the band will progress to become one of the foremost bands in southern England, whilst ensuring that it remains supportive of both charitable and community events alike.

The band has registered as a charity.

Check the diary section to see when we will be performing at our next show.