Brassbandathon is a 12-hour charity event that raises money for Children in Need. It is organised by Claire Scholes and Laura King from Worthing Silver Band. We spoke with Laura, the Musical Director of the band to find out more about the event.
Laura, what is Brassbandathon?
Brassbandathon is 12-hours of brass band madness. We have different bands performing sets throughout the day, all playing different music and with their own style.
Do you have to be a brass band enthusiast?
It's certainly a great day for anyone who is!! Although being a brass band enthusiast is not essential. There is such a varied selection of music playing throughout the day, we're always confident there is something for everyone.
What sort of music is played?
Pretty much everything. There are traditional brass band pieces, show tunes, pop songs etc. and things you might not expect.
Like what?
Worthing Silver Band performed with a heavy metal band. It was such good fun, and everyone loved it. We also had a singer join us for an Abba Medley, which was great too. In between bands, we had other musical acts including a Zumba demonstration!
Have you done the event before?
Yes, this was the eighth Brassbandathon, but the first time we have performed it in Haslemere.
Why did you move the event?
We wanted to make the event even bigger and better. Haslemere Hall is a fantastic venue to perform in, with good acoustics and room for us to introduce more things to the event. This year, for example, we were lucky to be joined by local businesses who had stalls throughout the day, and we could introduce activities for children.
We've seen pictures of Pudsey Bear at Brassbandathon, does he come every year?
Yes, he loves the live music and even has a go at conducting! The kids enjoy meeting him and he enjoys looking at all the raffle prizes. This year we got a great photo of him holding the pCornet that was on our raffle table.
Do you know who won it?
It was a family from Haslemere with two young girls. There is already music happening in their house, so we are really pleased that the pCornet has gone to a good home and will be well loved.
How much money did Brassbandathon raise?
This year we raised £1236.00 for Children in Need. This takes our overall total to over £13,000 over eight years.
That’s a great total! Will there be a ninth Brassbandathon?
Yes, there will! Brassbandathon 2020 will be 4th October at Haslemere Hall. Follow Worthing Silver Band on Facebook www.facebook.com/worthingsilverband for more information.
Read more
Read about pCornet’s starring role in Shetland at their famous fire festival in our blog here…
Watch Tom Neilson, BBC Young Brass Award Winner 2018 review the pCornet here…
Watch Mark Wilkinson on pCornet and Fodens Band perform Sunshine of Your Smile here…
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