CHILDREN are being encouraged to take up an instrument for free after a brass band has experienced dwindling membership.

Radcliffe Brass Band, described as a ‘valuable community asset’, represents the borough by performing at a range of concerts throughout the calendar year.

More importantly, since its formation in 1913, it has helped hundreds of young people over the years to learn an instrument and develop an enjoyment for music.

But in recent months, the team has noticed dwindling numbers and is now putting measures in place to attract new members.

Liz Templeman, whose son plays tuba with the band, said: “The Brass Band is a fantastic tradition.

“They teach children, whose families do not have the money to pay for music lessons, for free.

“They encourage people to come and learn an instrument.”

She added: “They are trying to encourage new members to join because children are not coming in through schools any more. Brass banding will fall apart without new people coming in.

“My children would not be playing instruments if it were not for Radcliffe Brass Band.

“It is a valuable community asset that we desperately want to continue into the future.

“As the current children move on, we need new young people to come in.”

In its heyday, the Band won first prize at Alexandra Palace, London, fighting off competition from 31 other bands to secure the supreme award under the baton of Wilfred Riley in 1937.

Then in April 1973, the Band became British and European Champions at the W.D & H.O. Wills Championships in London.

Radcliffe Brass Band is run by volunteers on a not-for-profit basis. The only money the band receives is through concerts and performances they are paid for.

Band manager Sarah Moran said: “There is no new blood coming through the ranks. We have seen that other brass bands are dying out because there are no new players joining.

"Years ago when we started playing, we had a wealth of teachers who came in once a week to teach a variety of instruments.

"That has stood us in good stead but due to education funding cuts, there is not that same provision now.

"School lessons are quite expensive, around £145 a term.

"We give the lessons for free. We integrate them and encourage them to work as part of a team, taking responsibility for the care and looking after their instruments and music.”

In efforts to turn the situation around, the Brass Band has been visiting schools to give pupils the opportunity to see and learn about them. They have also handed out leaflets and asked parents if they would like their children to learn.

Ms Moran said: “We have got to grab every opportunity.”

Children can start with the Brass Band from as young as eight years old. The training band meets every Monday between 6.30 and 7.45pm at St Mary's RC Primary School in Belgrave Street.

To get involved, call Ms Moran on 07554 990139 or email sarah.moran1177@gmail.com.