A Watford-based brass band has earned a spot in a national final after claiming a podium spot at a regional competition.

Watford Band earned third place in the London and Southern Counties Regional contest at Stevenage Leisure and Arts Centre.

The competition saw 17 bands vying for the victory in the fourth section, with the band's performance guaranteeing them a spot in the national finals at Cheltenham Racecourse in September.

 

 

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The band's placing will also see the band move up to compete in the third section.

Musical director Ian Graves said: "The band worked extremely hard rehearsing the piece for the last three months and their dedication and commitment was justly awarded.

"We are now looking forward to the challenge of competing in the third section in 2025."

The band's chairman John Robb said: "As a band, we are going from strength to strength and to reach the National Finals at Cheltenham two years in a row shows how the hard work and dedication the band is putting in has paid off.

Watford Observer: Watford Band were promoted to the third section with their third place finish

"Incredible, fantastic, elation and euphoria was the manner of the day when the results were announced."

Having been a part of the community for over 125 years, the band is inviting brass players to join them as they continue to entertain.

Alongside their main band, the group launched Brass Beats in January 2024 to offer opportunity for new brass players to hone their skills and gain ensemble experience, and also continues to welcome new members.

For further enquiries regarding the bands, contact Karen Dovey on 07796175838 or visit their Facebook page or website.

The band's next performance is a Last Night of the Proms concert being held at St Lawrence's Church in Abbots Langley, on Saturday, May 25 at 7.30pm.