About Us

Formation & Name

Broseley Brass was formed in 1984 through the generous sponsorship of a building company called "Broseley Homes", from which organisation the band took its name. Broseley Homes was much involved in the development of Milton Keynes - the new city in which the band is based. And where did the company get its name? From Broseley in Shropshire where the company had connections - so that's how a Buckinghamshire Brass Band is named after a Shropshire location.

The band was started with just eight players - six of whom still play with the band - and its first job was to take part in the Milton Keynes Miracle Cycle. However as the instruments had not yet arrived band members took the stage as actors rather than musicians!

Subsequently the company was taken over by Ideal Homes and the sponsorship deal lapsed in 1994.

Rehearsals

Rehearsals are held at Loughton Manor First School, Paynes Drive, Milton Keynes on Tuesday evenings, 7:30pm for 7:45 start, finishing at 10:00pm. By arrangement the band has extra rehearsals in the two weeks prior to contests at the same venue on Thursdays.

The band is happy to welcome visiting players, or those seeking membership, at rehearsals but please contact the Secretary in advance before turning up, as the run up to major concerts or contests may not be the best time to visit.

Financing & Status

Although originally established through sponsorship the band is self financing. The band supplies instruments, but members are asked to provided concert wear and casual uniforms (although support is available where needed). Members do not receive fees. Travel expenses are disbursed to guest players.

The band is a registered charity (Registered Charity No. 289504), with educational objectives. The band is run by a committee, annually elected by the members.

Musical Director

Our Musical Director is Paul Fensom

Paul is Director of Music for Brent, and brings a vast store of teaching and playing experience from his Salvation Army days, from his time as a military bandsman and from his teaching and conducting career, to Broseley Brass.

Under his musical leadership the band has had its most successful period; winning promotion to Second Section (from January 2001) then to the First Section from 2004. Wins at Harrow, Aylesbury and Southend contests (twice), Folkestone and Hove, plus a second place in the London & Southern Area contest (in both Third & Second Sections) have come under his baton.

Paul took his last band, Brent Brass from Youth Band to First Section in four years; the band he directed before that, Regent Brass, he took from Youth to Championship section. He has now lifted Broseley Brass from Third to First!