Barrhead Burgh in new youth band venture

A new youth brass band is preparing to launch in Barrhead this September, offering children the opportunity to learn an instrument, make friends and perform as part of a band – all completely free of charge.

Barrhead Burgh Band is inviting young people aged 8 to 14 to become the founding members of the new Barrhead Burgh Youth Band.

No previous musical experience is required and instruments, rehearsals, sheet music and uniforms will all be provided free of charge, ensuring that every child has the same opportunity to take part.

The youth band will begin with a special Kickstart Weekend from Friday 4 to Sunday 6 September. The weekend will introduce the young people to their instruments, help them learn their first notes and give them the chance to meet the other young musicians with whom they will be sharing their musical journey.

Following the launch weekend, rehearsals will take place every Tuesday evening from 5.45pm to 6.45pm at Bourock Parish Church in Barrhead.

The band will be led by musical director Alan Friel who is looking forward to helping a new generation of local musicians discover the enjoyment of playing in a brass band.

Alan said: “Brass banding is about much more than simply learning to play the notes. It can help young people develop confidence, concentration, teamwork and self-discipline, while giving them a real sense of friendship and belonging.

“We want every child to feel welcome from the moment they arrive. It does not matter whether they have played an instrument before or have never held one – we will help them get started and support them as they progress.

“The most important things they can bring are enthusiasm, curiosity and a willingness to have a go.”

As well as learning musical skills, members will have opportunities to take part in concerts and community events. Playing together as a band encourages children to listen to one another, work towards shared goals and celebrate what they can achieve as a team.

The project has been designed to be welcoming and inclusive, removing the financial barriers that can prevent children and families from accessing music tuition.

Barrhead Burgh Band chairperson Sarah Young said: “We are delighted to be creating a youth band for the children of Barrhead and the surrounding communities.

“This is an inclusive community project, open to children from every background. We know that the cost of lessons, instruments, uniforms and music can make it difficult for families to access musical opportunities, which is why there will be no charge to join the youth band.

“Everything the children need will be provided free of charge. We hope local families will take advantage of this opportunity and help us build something of which the whole community can be proud.”

The new youth band will provide a friendly and supportive environment in which children can learn at their own pace. There will be no auditions, and beginners will be guided through the basics of producing their first sounds, reading music and playing alongside others.

The initiative will also create a pathway for young musicians to continue developing their skills and remain involved in music as they grow older.

Parents and carers can register a child’s interest by completing the form on the Barrhead Burgh Band website.

Families are encouraged to register as soon as possible ahead of the September Kickstart Weekend.

For Barrhead’s next generation of musicians, this could be the start of a lifelong love of music, friendship and community brass banding.