“They played their hearts out” – Worsley Concert Band celebrate 50 years in Eccles Town Hall

Worsley Concert Band hit a huge milestone this year celebrating 50 years, and are congratulated for their ‘fantastic job’ for being involved in the community. 

The band started in 1974 with members of the community joining the ‘Wind Band for All’ at Eccles Town on Sunday 29 September.

The long-standing band commenced their musical compilations at 3 pm that featured familiar tunes such as ABBA and The Beatles.

Celebrations throughout the concert included many other pieces, such as work composed by Chris Holmes and Goff Richards, much to the joy of the audience.

The performance also featured a particularly poignant piece called ‘Freedom Road’ by James Curnow that took the audience through a story about slavery.

The band is led by musical director Peter Dunkley, who has been with the band since 2023. He spoke about his tireless effort to prepare the band for the anniversary performance.

He said: “It’s a really great little band, and they did a fantastic job, they played their hearts out for me.

“It’s great to have such a strong audience here, and we hope to welcome everyone back in December.”

Following the performance, Peter sang the band’s praises for being a staple part of the Salford community for so many years.

“Any ensemble that can last 50 years and keep developing is remarkable,” says Dunkley.

“It’s not the same band that started 50 years ago, but we have members who have been with us for over 30 years. That’s pretty good going, isn’t it?”

“It’s a great community effort. Music is all about that.”

“They’re not professionals, but they come along every week and do their best to make the best musical sounds they can,” he explained.

Clarinet player Jim Hassall has been a member of the Worsley Concert Band for 33 years. He spoke about the importance of the band because “the band (when it started out) was so small, and it has continued to grow and grow to what it is today.”

He added, “My favourite part about the band is just playing, and the social!”

Hassall also went on to thank everyone who came to watch and said: “Anyone who came this evening, I hope you enjoyed it.”

As the Worsley Concert Band looks ahead to the future, they plan a performance at Eccles Town Hall on December 11 for Christmas with a ‘mixture of carols’ to look forward to.

As it remains a vibrant part of the Salford community it will be welcomed with open arms, to learn more about Worsley Concert Band visit this website.