We have space for more players ( from absolute beginners upwards) and invite anyone from the local area who would like to join in. Our focus is on enjoyment of sharing the experience of making music with others and bringing together people from all corners of this special community.
If you would like to find out more about us please come along to one of our rehearsals (currently every Monday at 'Penny Brohn, Ham Green'), or email info@pfb.org.uk, or ask around the village.
7.00 to 9pm combined training band and performance band rehearsal.
Friday Afternoon (term time at St.Mary's Church, Portbury.
3:45 to 4:15pm beginners section
For anyone who has taken up a new instrument, or is returning to playing after many years, the beginners band provides an environment to play along with others and to perform to an appreciative audience.
Objective of the band.
The main purpose of the band is to allow anyone in the locality to learn and play live music. So that they can both enjoy playing for their own enjoyment, and also that of others in bringing live performances to local events and concerts.
To support and encourage our younger members under 18s and full time students are given free membership, and we have a library of loan instruments available.
The Festival Band also supports children in formal music lessons - please ask.
The three sections of the band
Pill Festival Band is open to anyone, whether a seasoned player or a complete beginner.
As an orchestral band we include a wide range of instruments such as those listed below and more.
Strings - violin, viola, cello, electric bass guitar
Woodwind - flute, clarinet, saxophone
Brass - horn, trumpet, cornet
Beginners Band
MUSIC FOR ALL
Aimed at improvers and those who abandoned any formal musical training once they were old enough to stand up to their parents, but - who now see the light.
We are in the process of arranging the re-start of the beginners' band.
Please check back in the near future for the latest news on this.
Training Band
Those with a few years of playing experience who after practice can play with a reasonable level of competence, who want to enjoy the social contact of practicing in a group and/or who want to perform as part of a group in public.
Instrument Appeal
To help us provide low cost musical tuition to local children
we are asking anyone with an unused instrument (in the loft??)
to consider donating it to the band, we are currently short of
violins (1/2 and 3/4 sizes) and recorders.
Performance Band
Another Pill Community Success
Fairly proficient players and above, who can play from sheet music and include all accents and dynamics.
Formation
Pill Festival Band was originally set up as part of Pill Music Festival in 2009, the aim was to encourage live music in the locality. Now independent of the Music Festival, its objective is to provide an encouraging environment for local musicians at any age and at any standard of play, and also to provide musical accompaniment to local events.
Conductors
Beginners' band
We hope to re-launch the beginner's band in the near future. Please check back.
Training and performance
sections are coached and conducted by Michael Joce. Michael joined us in 2021. His friendly and professional manner have made our rehearsals a real and informative pleasure, as well as raising our level of performance - thank you Michael.
Cost/Subs
The band usually rehearses on each Monday during school term time (i.e. 38 rehearsals), for adults each rehearsal is £5, or alternatively a standing order of £15 per month. Potential new members are encouraged to take a no obligation ‘free’ trial period.
Under 18s and full time students are free, including instrument loan.
Performance Availability
Pill Festival Band accepts invitations to perform at any local public or private event. The band has performed at birthday parties, local commemorative events, local festivals, fetes and of course at the popular local events Pill Rag and Pill Regatta.