The illustrious journey of the Poynton Royal British Legion Concert Band commenced in June 1974, under the guiding vision of John Kilshaw. Eager invitations were extended to members of the Poynton community, uniting their aspirations to create a remarkable Military Band. This endeavour culminated in a momentous first rehearsal on 18th September 1974 at the Poynton Community Centre. The inaugural gathering saw 36 passionate individuals wielding instruments, marking the commencement of a harmonious legacy.
Recognising the power of regular practice, the decision was made to establish weekly rehearsals, which kindled the band's growth to a robust ensemble of nearly 50 dedicated members. The band's maiden public performance on 11th December 1974 resonated within the walls of Poynton Social Centre, conducted by the skilled hands of Peter Toms, a Bandmaster hailing from the esteemed Royal Marines, who had been appointed as the Band’s very first Musical Director. The stage was set and the Band, initially known as the Poynton Centre Military Band, embarked on its journey of musical excellence.
In May 1975, the band expanded its repertoire by gracing the stage of Poynton Civic Hall, offering the community a taste of its remarkable prowess. The resounding success of this performance paved the way for a cherished tradition, with annual Christmas concerts at the Civic Hall becoming a fixture in the band's calendar.
After honing their craft at the Poynton Centre, the band sought a new abode, ultimately relocating to the old Fire Station. Yet, this setting proved suboptimal, plagued by confined space and wintry cold. A pivotal moment emerged when John Kilshaw, Charles Oldfield and Frank McDonald approached the Royal British Legion Club, paving the path for the band's migration to the Poynton Royal British Legion Club in October 1986. In the wake of this transition, the band adopted its new moniker, the Poynton Royal British Legion Concert Band.
Guiding the band into its next chapter was Charles Oldfield, steering the musical direction as the band's leadership passed to a new generation. The legacy deepened as a junior band, masterfully crafted by Frank McDonald, thrived for a decade, embodying the band's commitment to nurturing talent.
Stepping onto the competitive stage in 1987, the band ventured to the St. Helens Regional Competition, where they secured the Merit Award Shield. A crescendo followed as the band clinched the title of Best Brass Section the following year. In 1989, the band stood as a runner-up at the prestigious National Concert Band Festival in Southport, a testament to their remarkable musical prowess.
The dawn of the 1990s heralded a pivotal appointment - Peter Leary, a distinguished principal trombonist with the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, assumed the role of Musical Director. Over the ensuing decade, the band's music flourished under his guidance, radiating with a renewed vitality and captivating audiences far and wide.
Fast-forwarding to October 2004, the band welcomed Neil Fraser-Standeven, a lifelong military musician, as Musical Director. Neil's tenure was marked by an unwavering connection with the band and its audiences, tragically truncated by his untimely passing due to cancer merely ten months after taking up the baton.
In August 2005, the baton passed to Dave Caine, a seasoned musician with a rich tapestry of experience. With a background spanning Army bands and teaching with the Manchester Music Service, Dave's tenure ushered in a phase of transformative growth, enriched by his expertise in band training and Concert Band music.
Transitioning leadership in 2009, Keith Hatton, a highly accomplished musician and retired military Director of Music, assumed the mantle of Musical Director. Drawing from a distinguished musical military career, Keith's stewardship paved the way for the band's evolution until 2020.
The advent of March 2020 brought unprecedented challenges as Coronavirus restrictions temporarily silenced the band's rehearsals - a first in its storied history. Amid this hiatus, Keith chose to retire, setting the stage for Tom Griffin, a serving musician in the Royal Marines, to take the reins. A subsequent commission as Director of Music within HM Royal Marines Music Service led Tom to new horizons with the HM Royal Marines Band Scotland.
Undeterred by lockdowns, the band's resilience found a champion in Alistair Harrison, who adeptly navigated the challenges and sustained the band's unity. Alistair's innovative endeavours amplified the band's online presence, with virtual performances resonating through digital avenues.
August 2021 marked a triumphant return to face-to-face rehearsals, albeit necessitating a temporary move to Wilmslow Sports and Social Club. With the curtain falling on Alistair's leadership in August 2022, Adam Hall, a local music teacher and conductor, stepped into the spotlight. Adam's vision focused on rekindling the band's essence through dynamic social media outreach and open rehearsals.
True to its resilient spirit, the band triumphantly circled back to its roots in August 2023, reclaiming its former band room at the Poynton Royal British Legion. As echoes of the past harmonised with the promise of the future, the Poynton Royal British Legion Concert Band continues to illuminate lives, ensuring its melody shall endure for generations to come.
Poynton Royal British Legion Concert Band
Musical Directors
1974 - 1986 Peter Toms
1986 - 1991 Charles Oldfield
1991 - 2004 Peter Leary
2004 - 2005 Neil Fraser-Standeven
2005 - 2009 David Caine
2009 - 2020 Keith Hatton
2020 - 2020 Tom Griffin
2020 - 2022 Alistair Harrison
2022 - Adam Hall