- Open Rehearsals Return this September!
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Date Posted: Tue, 11 Aug 2026
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As September approaches, it’s time for our annual Back to Band Season and we’re inviting new members to come and try out Nantwich Concert Band!
Whether you’re picking up your instrument again after a break, looking for a new musical challenge, or simply want to join a welcoming, community-minded band, our September open rehearsals are the perfect place to start. Throughout the month, we’re throwing open our doors to local musicians who want to come along, meet the band, and join in with our rehearsals - all in a relaxed, no-pressure setting.
Who are we looking for?
We’re always happy to hear from woodwind, brass and percussion players, but right now we’re particularly keen to welcome musicians who play:- Bassoon
- Baritone Saxophone
- Alto Sax
- French Horn
- Tuba
We recommend a playing standard of around Grade 3-4, and our group is made up of friendly, mixed-ability musicians of all ages. We rehearse weekly in Nantwich and enjoy a varied and busy calendar of concerts and community performances throughout the year.
What to expect- Rehearsals take place on Wednesday evenings in Nantwich
- No commitment required while you try us out
- Free to attend during the open rehearsal period
- A fun, friendly and supportive band environment
If you’ve been thinking about getting back into music, or starting something new, now’s the perfect time!
Interested?
Head to our Concert Band page to find out more about our community concert band.
Let us know you’re coming or ask questions, email our Musical Director, Nick Birch, at: ? musicaldirector@nantwichband.co.uk
We can’t wait to meet you!
- Nantwich Concert Band Launches New Symphonic Wind Band (Nantwich Concert Band, Nantwich Symphonic Wind Band)
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Date Posted: Mon, 13 Jul 2026
Nantwich Concert Band is delighted to announce the launch of the Nantwich Symphonic Wind Band, a new ensemble that will begin rehearsals in September 2026.
The new band has been created to provide additional opportunities for experienced woodwind, brass and percussion players seeking the chance to perform more challenging wind band repertoire and take part in ambitious musical projects.
Under the direction of Musical Director Nick Birch, the Symphonic Wind Band will present a programme of concerts, festival performances and special projects alongside Nantwich Concert Band's existing programme of community performances and events.
The launch follows continued growth in Nantwich Concert Band and represents an exciting new chapter in the band's development.
Nick Birch, Musical Director, said: "We're incredibly excited to launch the Nantwich Symphonic Wind Band. The new ensemble will give experienced players the opportunity to perform some fantastic repertoire and take part in exciting musical projects, whilst complementing the welcoming and inclusive community band environment that Nantwich Concert Band is known for."
The Symphonic Wind Band will rehearse on Monday evenings during term time at Highfields Academy, Nantwich, with its first rehearsal planned for September 2026.
There are no auditions, and registration of interest is now open for experienced woodwind, brass and percussion players interested in becoming part of the band's inaugural membership.
Nantwich Concert Band will continue to rehearse every Wednesday evening and remains open to new members of all ages and abilities.
Further information about both ensembles, including how to register your interest, can be found on our Join a Band page.
We look forward to welcoming new and existing musicians to this exciting new venture.For more information, see: www.nantwichband.co.uk/NSWB
- Nantwich Concert Band Launches New Fundraising Campaign to Support Future Growth
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Date Posted: Sat, 23 May 2026
Nantwich Concert Band has officially launched a new fundraising campaign aimed at supporting the organisation’s continued growth and long-term development.
The campaign, titled “Support the Future of Music in Nantwich”, will help fund essential investment in equipment, rehearsal facilities, and the infrastructure needed to support the band’s growing membership and musical ambitions.
Nantwich Concert Band is part of Association of Nantwich Bands, a registered charity (Charity No. 1215383) which exists to advance public appreciation and participation in music, while also supporting musical education, performance, and community engagement through live events and musical activity.
Over recent years, the band has continued to expand, attracting new players and strengthening its role within the local community through performances and musical activity across Nantwich and the surrounding area.
As the organisation continues to develop, investment in key resources, particularly high-cost instruments such as percussion, has become increasingly important to support future progression and maintain high musical standards.
Association Chairman Nick Thayer said:
“We’re incredibly proud of how far the organisation has come and the strong foundations we’ve built together. This campaign is about preparing for the next stage of our journey and ensuring we have the resources to support our ambitions for the future.”
He added:
“As a charity, everything we raise goes directly back into supporting music-making, developing opportunities for musicians, and strengthening our role within the community. We want to continue building an organisation that not only performs to a high standard, but also makes a lasting contribution to musical life in Nantwich.”
The campaign also reflects the organisation’s wider long-term vision, which includes strengthening its facilities, investing in equipment, and creating the foundations for future musical opportunities and ensembles.
Supporters can donate directly through the band’s website, where they can also find out more about the campaign and the organisation’s future plans.
> To donate or find out more about the campaign, click here <
The band would also encourage supporters to share the campaign and help spread the word throughout the local community
Image: screen capture of the campaign page from fundraising platform, Zeffy.For more information, see: https://www.zeffy.com/en-GB/donation-form/support-the-future-of-music-in-nantwich
- Nantwich Concert Band receives Mayor’s “Salt of the Earth” Award
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Date Posted: Sun, 10 May 2026
Nantwich Concert Band has been honoured with the Outstanding Organisation “Salt of the Earth” Award at the Mayor of Nantwich’s annual community awards ceremony.
Presented at Nantwich Civic Hall, the award recognises individuals and organisations who make an exceptional contribution to the local community through dedication, volunteering and service.
The award recognised Nantwich Concert Band as a whole for more than 40 years of bringing live music to the community through concerts, civic events and performances across the town. The band regularly performs at events including Nantwich Food Festival, concerts at Nantwich Civic Hall, and outdoor performances in Nantwich town centre for shoppers and visitors.
Committee members Nick Thayer, Jo Birch and Janet Haighton were the official nominees put forward on behalf of the organisation, recognising the enormous contribution they have made to the band over many years.
The nomination highlighted the vital role they played in helping the band recover following the Covid pandemic, when weekly attendance had dropped to around 15 players. Through determination, leadership and a huge amount of voluntary effort, the band has since flourished, regularly welcoming between 45 and 50 members to rehearsals each week.
The past year has been especially significant for Nantwich Concert Band, which achieved a Gold Award at the National Concert Band Festival and has welcomed more than 30 new members since January 2025.
Nick Thayer was recognised for his exceptional leadership and strategic direction during a transformative period for the organisation. From guiding the band through the challenges of Covid to helping shape its long-term future, Nick’s encouragement, hands-on support and steady leadership have been central to the band’s success. As the welcoming public face of the organisation, he is often the first person new members meet, helping create the friendly, supportive and professional atmosphere for which the band has become known.
Jo Birch was praised for the extraordinary energy and enthusiasm she brings to the organisation across a wide range of roles. Her creativity, positivity and determination continually push the band forward, while her commitment to communication, organisation and member support helps maintain the strong sense of community at the heart of the band. Her passion for the organisation is matched only by her willingness to turn ideas into action.
Janet Haighton was described as the band’s “true unsung hero”, having devoted more than a decade to supporting the organisation behind the scenes. From coordinating performances and managing event enquiries to supporting members and keeping communication flowing, Janet’s dedication and attention to detail help hold the band together. Her quiet commitment, reliability and constant presence have made her an indispensable part of Nantwich Concert Band for many years.
Band members attended the awards evening at Nantwich Civic Hall to celebrate the achievement and support the nominees. The organisation said it was proud to see the contribution of the entire band, and especially the volunteers who help sustain it behind the scenes, recognised by the local community.
The Mayor’s “Salt of the Earth” Awards celebrate residents, volunteers, businesses and organisations that have made a positive difference within Nantwich and surrounding communities.
For more information, see: www.nantwichtowncouncil.gov.uk/salt-of-the-the-earth-awards/
- January Open Rehearsals Return for 2026
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Date Posted: Sun, 4 Jan 2026
As the new year begins, Nantwich Concert Band is once again inviting local musicians to attend our January Open Rehearsals, running throughout January 2026.
Whether you’re returning to playing after a break or looking for a new musical challenge, this is a great opportunity to come along, meet the band, and experience what rehearsals with us are like. Rehearsals take place on Wednesday evenings in Nantwich, and are free to attend during the open rehearsal period.
We welcome players of all woodwind, brass and percussion instruments, and are currently particularly keen to hear from musicians who play Drum Kit, Bassoon or French Horn. Nantwich Concert Band recommends a minimum playing standard of around Grade 4 or equivalent, and we pride ourselves on being a friendly, mixed-ability ensemble.
The band enjoys a varied programme across the year, performing a wide range of music including concert band repertoire, film and TV music, popular arrangements and seasonal favourites. New members are welcome throughout the year, with January open rehearsals offering extra encouragement for anyone thinking of giving banding a try.
If you’re planning to attend, we’d love to hear from you in advance. You can let us know by completing the Expression of Interest form on our Join Us page — this helps us make sure you have the best possible experience when you arrive.
For more information about attending an open rehearsal or joining the band, please visit:
www.nantwichband.co.uk/join-usYou can also keep up to date with our concerts and events at:
www.nantwichband.co.ukWe look forward to welcoming new faces to the band this January.
- Nantwich Concert Band Wins Gold at NCBF Regional Festival
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Date Posted: Mon, 1 Dec 2025
We are thrilled to announce that Nantwich Concert Band has been awarded a Gold Award in the Community Wind Band category at the National Concert Band Festival (NCBF) Regional event in Telford on 30 November — our first NCBF appearance in many years. This achievement is a testament to the dedication, talent, and hard work of every member who took part.
The National Concert Band Festival (NCBF) is the UK’s largest festival for wind and concert bands, providing a supportive environment for bands of all levels to perform and develop. Regional events lead to the National Finals, where outstanding bands are celebrated for musical quality, ensemble skill, and programme choice.
About the National Concert Band Festival
Preparing for the Festival
Earlier this year, we asked our members if they were interested in taking part in the NCBF, and the response was overwhelmingly positive. To accommodate this alongside our regular Wednesday rehearsals for upcoming concerts, we introduced extra Monday evening rehearsals for those available and keen to participate.
With a committed ensemble of around 35 players, we rehearsed fort nightly over the months leading up to the festival. Our efforts culminated in a fantastic performance in Telford on 30 November — a first NCBF experience for many of our members.
Our Programme
Our performance featured a varied and exciting programme:- Concert Prelude (Philip Sparke) – energetic fanfares and rhythmic drive
- Whispers from Beyond (Rossano Galante) – a modern and expressive wind band work
- Country Gardens (Percy Grainger) – a charming, folk-inspired favourite
- March from A Moorside Suite (Gustav Holst) – bold, uplifting English band music
The mix of styles allowed the band to show musical versatility, dynamic contrast, and strong ensemble playing.
Gold Award Performance
The adjudicators praised our performance for:- Excellent dynamic variation
- A well-balanced sound throughout
- Clear articulation and rhythmic drive
- A balanced programme with confidence and colour
"I’m incredibly proud of what the band has achieved in such a short space of time — just eight rehearsals. To enter the competition for the first time in many years and achieve a Gold Award is an outstanding accomplishment and something the band can continue to build on."
Musical Director Nick Birch said:
"It’s a remarkable achievement for the band to take part in the event and be awarded Gold. The dedication and commitment shown by the players and committee has been exceptional, and we’re very proud of everyone involved."
Band Chairman Nick Thayer added:
The band will now return to preparations for their Christmas concert on 21 December, while also looking forward to future festival participation. Plans are also being considered for a social trip for band members to the National Final event in April 2026 at the Royal Northern College of Music.
Looking Ahead
- We Need You! Nantwich Concert Band is Recruiting
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Date Posted: Sat, 4 Oct 2025
Are you a drummer, bassoonist, trombonist, french horn or clarinet player? Nantwich Concert Band would love to welcome you! We’re a fun, friendly, and busy community band that’s growing fast. This year alone we’ve welcomed over 20 new players, and reached an incredible milestone of 50 members earlier in the year.
Our repertoire is exciting and ever-changing, covering pop hits, film soundtracks, classical favourites, and original concert band works. We perform four formal concerts a year, as well as at local events such as the Nantwich Food Festival, Nantwich Show, and Christmas busking, giving our members plenty of opportunities to share their music with the wider community
Current Opportunities:- Drummer – Our drum kit is ready and waiting; we need a confident, committed player to complete our rhythm section.
- Bassoon – Join our woodwind section and enrich our ensemble with your unique sound.
- French Horn, Trombone, Clarinet – Help expand our brass and woodwind sections and be part of an even stronger, fuller band.
Whether you’re returning to music after a break or looking for a new challenge, Nantwich Concert Band offers:
- A welcoming, supportive, and sociable musical community.
- High-quality, enjoyable music that’s always fresh.
- Opportunities to perform in concerts, festivals, and local community events.
- Rehearsals every Wednesday, 7:30–9:15pm at Highfield Academy, Nantwich.
If you play one of these instruments (or know someone who does!), get in touch or come along to a rehearsal. There’s a place for you in our band, Let’s make music together!
- Nantwich Concert Band Welcomes New Musicians for September Open Rehearsals
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Date Posted: Wed, 30 Jul 2025
As the new academic year approaches, Nantwich Concert Band is once again inviting local musicians to attend our Open Rehearsals throughout September 2025.
Whether you’re returning to playing after a break or looking for a fresh musical challenge, this is a perfect opportunity to come along, meet the band, and experience what we’re all about. Rehearsals take place on Wednesday evenings in Nantwich, and are completely free to attend during the open rehearsal period.
We welcome players of all woodwind, brass and percussion instruments, and are currently particularly keen to hear from those who play Horn, Trombone, Tuba or Drum Kit (a drum kit is provided at rehearsals, so there’s no need to bring your own).
Nantwich Concert Band recommends a minimum playing standard of around Grade 4, and we pride ourselves on being a friendly, mixed-ability ensemble. The band has a varied programme throughout the year, performing everything from concert band repertoire and film music to pop arrangements and seasonal favourites.
If you’re interested in attending, or would like more information about joining the band, please contact our Musical Director, Nick Birch, at:
? musicaldirector@nantwichband.co.ukYou can also find more details about the band and our upcoming performances at:
? www.nantwichband.co.ukWe look forward to welcoming some new faces to the band this September!
- NCB Hosts Open Rehearsals through January 2025
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Date Posted: Thu, 2 Jan 2025
Nantwich Concert Band is opening up our doors to new musicians to encourage you to join the band!
New Year, New Me, New Hobby? Or are you looking for a new social community?
Here at Nantwich Concert Band (NCB) we're always on the look out for new members. This January we're hosting 'Open Rehearsals' to encourage musicians from Nantwich and surrounding areas to come 'give it a go' by attending rehearsals for FREE while you decide if you'd like to join us on a permanent basis.
NCB welcomes musicians who play any woodwind or brass instrument, and encourage percussionists to join too. We recommend a playing standard of at least Grade 3, and are a mixed ability band!
We're particularly keen to hear from musicians who play the following instruments:- Oboe
- Horn
- Tuba
- Drum Kit (NCB has a drum kit - no need to ferry yours around)
You can find more details about Nantwich Concert Band and becoming a member via our website!
Get in touch and let us know if you're interested in attending a rehearsal by emailing our Musical Director, Nick Birch: musicaldirector@nantwichband.co.uk
