Abingdon Town Band

Abingdon Town Band was established before the turn of the 20th century. The Band is dedicated to promoting the enjoyment and performance of brass band music in Abingdon, the surrounding district and also in our twin towns across Europe. The Band is not sponsored and relies entirely on subscriptions, grants and fundraising to provide the finances necessary for its running.
The Band in its current form dates from 1965 when it reformed after a short break and started rehearsals in Dunmore School. After this it moved to the Old Gaol before its conversion into a sports and leisure centre. The Band then moved to an old air raid shelter on the Oxford Road before moving to its own premises in Hales Meadow, just over the Abingdon Bridge, in 1969. Currently, the Band uses the excellent purpose-built music block at John Mason School for both Senior and Training Band rehearsals on Mondays and Thursdays.
In keeping with its place in Abingdon’s history and heritage, the Band is involved in traditional civic ceremonies and special occasions as well as fétes, garden parties, marches and gala days. Notable engagements the Band has undertaken are; The Lord Mayor’s Parade London, Windsor Castle, for HRH the Princess Royal, carols in London’s Mayfair, Oxford’s Millenium Parade, various London Parks and the Bournemouth Winter Gardens. The Band is keen to foster links and friendships with Abingdon’s twin towns in Europe, performing in the Bavarian town of Schongau, Argentan and Colmar in France and spending a successful week in Lucca, Italy. The Band also plays host to bands from our twin towns when they visit Abingdon and has toured in Luxembourg playing in a variety of popular venues.
The Band is always seeking new members, from experienced musicians to total beginners and people of any age are welcome. The Band comprises two sections; Senior Band and the Training Band. The Band is committed to its training programme and holds weekly Training Band sessions.