As far as we know, the first mention of Stannington Brass Band was in 1881. Later it became the Stannington Church Brass Band and after a six year break was reformed in 1968 as Stannington Brass Band.

The Band retains close links with the local community and many players reside in, or close to, Stannington. However, with true Yorkshire hospitality the Band actively welcomes students attending the local Universities and other visitors to the area.

Whilst maintaining a high playing standard the Band especially welcomes young or inexperienced players and some of its longest serving players originally joined as youngsters.

As part of this commitment to young players, a Training Band was formed in 1997. To ensure that no one, through personal financial circumstances, is denied the opportunity to fully participate, the Band provides instruments, uniforms, music etc. for all players from its own funds.

In a typical year players will

Due to the players' consistent hard work and loyalty the Band has had successes in many contests. Our most recent successes were coming 2nd at the 2008 Yorkshire Regional Qualifying Championships competition which then automatically entered the band in the The National Brass Band Championships of Great Britain which were held on 28 September 2008 at Harrogate and then promotion to the Championship Section on 01 January 2009.

'Stannington Brass Band at the National Finals 2008'.

Our previous major success was coming 2nd at the 1998 Yorkshire Regional Qualifying Championships competition which then automatically entered the band in The National Brass Band Championships of Great Britain which were held in September 1998 at Nottingham. However, whilst striving for excellence, we do not forget that "banding" should also be fun.

'Stannington Brass Band at the National Finals 1998'.

We have no sponsor and receive no direct financial support, but during 1999 Westfield Contributory Health Scheme sponsored the band to play at two events on their behalf.

All funds are raised by the Band's own efforts. We also have a patronage scheme, which entitles patrons to certain benefits. (See Useful Contacts page for more information on the Patrons scheme)

The Band also took part in the first stage production of that brilliant film 'Brassed Off' at the Crucible Theatre, Sheffield in 1996 and then again in 1999 at the Lyceum Theatre.

Stannington Brass Band performing in the first stage production of one of the greatest films of all time, 'Brassed Off'.