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Woodbridge brass band celebrates 180th anniversary - and romance

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www.bbc.co.uk

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A woman and a man, both holding brass instruments. The woman wears a navy and white floral top and has a blonde bob haircut. She has black-framed glasses. The man, on the right, wears a sky-blue Hawaiian style shirt, and also wears glasses. They are inside a hall or very large brightly-lit room.

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Woodbridge Excelsior Band celebrates its 180th anniversary

Overview

The Woodbridge Excelsior Band in Suffolk is celebrating its 180th anniversary with a special concert. Originally formed in 1846 as a temperance band, the group has evolved from an all-male line-up to include a diverse mix of ages and genders, currently boasting 20 men and 12 women. Members reflect on the band's rich history, which includes playing alongside Deep Purple, performing at the National Film Theatre, and even sparking romances, such as long-standing members Jackie and Andrew Walker who met through the band in 1971.

Key points

  • The Woodbridge Excelsior Band is celebrating its 180th anniversary with a free concert at Woodbridge Community Hall.
  • Founded in 1846 as the Woodbridge Temperance Band, it later changed its name to the Excelsior Band in 1916.
  • Jackie and Andrew Walker met in the band in 1971 when women were first joining, later marrying in 1978 and becoming co-musical directors.
  • The band currently has 20 men and 12 women, featuring a healthy mix of ages from teenagers to retirees.
  • Historical highlights include playing on the bill with Deep Purple in 1969, performing at the National Film Theatre in 1974, and appearing in a 1977 TV advert for Golden Wonder Crisps.
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