ALTHOUGH rooted in the late 19th century (formed in 1885), Chalford Band is a modern, forward looking organisation and flourishing as never before with three thriving ensembles.

The senior band were Gloucestershire's second section champions and at the top of the section at south west regional level but after winning third prize at the 2003 regional championships, the band was promoted to first section from January, 2004. Now lying near the top in the south west first section table, the senior band had its best success of all, winning the national title of Pontins first section champions in November, 2006. This put Chalford in the top 200 world rankings for the first time ever (196th).

The all-age training band competes in the fourth section, having won the fourth section top prize at the Royal Forest of Dean College in November, 2001. It has since been renamed Academy Brass.

The future is well assured because there is also a full complement of enthusiastic youngsters in Chalford Youth Band, which has won a silver medal in the national youth brass b and championships two years in a row. In 2006 Chalford Youth were runners-up in their section of the national championships. Players of all ages are drawn from a wide area of the Stroud district.

Chalford is proud of its independence. The band retains its village title, free of sponsorship, relying for its finance on member subscriptions, fundraising and fees from engagements.

It has one of the finest bandrooms in the country (above). After a century in various rented premises in the village, members decided to design and build their own headquarters, with the help of local tradesmen, in an attractive setting next to the recreation ground on Chalford Hill. The bandroom was officially opened in 1988.

The musical director, Steve Tubb, continues the well established policy of meeting as many musical tastes as possible in concerts and other public performances, drawing on an extensive, varied repertoire. Chalford has built up a reputation for all-round entertainment, particularly at its Christmas concerts which have been held for many years.

Click here to learn more about the building of the bandroom.