Loxley Training Band rehearses at Stanwood Methodist Church on a Thursday evening from 6:30pm to 7:30pm (during school term time); new members are always welcome for the training band, including those ‘more mature members’ who would like the opportunity to ‘re-start’.
We have several instruments that we are able to loan to committed Training Band members and we encourage these members to join in with one of the main band rehearsals at least once a month so they can witness first hand what its like to be part of a full brass band and also so that they can make the best advantage of the wealth of experience that is available.
At Loxley we try to promote small Training Band concerts whenever we can and, where possible, encourage Training Band members to ‘sit in’ with the main band at concerts as soon as they feel able to do so.
Many of our former members have gone on to play with some of the top bands in the country and then they often come back and ‘sit in’ with us – Dale Garner for instance, who plays soprano cornet (sop) with Marsden (Championship Section) Silver Prize Band and is ‘always’ winning prizes – his grandfather still plays Ebb bass with us. There must be something in the water around hear that generates so may good players – another of our alumni is Tom Osborne who is now co-principle trumpet in the Hallé Orchestra; he was hoping to join us at a recent concert, but had to go to Austria with the Hallé.
Learning to play a musical instrument offers a lot of benefits. At Loxley Silver Band we believe that if there's one thing you should learn in your lifetime, it's how to play an instrument. Here are 5 reasons why:
1. Playing A Musical Instrument Makes You Cleverer:
Many studies have been conducted on the effects of music to the brain. Scientists say that children who are exposed to music, or those who play an instrument, do better in school than those who don't. Recent research suggests exposure to music may benefit a child's reading age, IQ and the development of certain parts of the brain. Adults can also benefit from learning to play an instrument because it helps the mind to be alert and remain active eventually helping to sharpen the memory.
2. It Teaches Discipline:
Learning to play an instrument is like learning to speak another language and it can be challenging at times. One of the qualities musicians possess is discipline. You have to be disciplined in order to master playing your instrument. You have to set time each day to practice, practice and practice some more.
3. Playing A Musical Instrument Relieves Stress:
We all have days when we are so stressed out and we just want to take a break from it all. Have you ever noticed that when you hear soft, soothing music you feel more relaxed? Playing an instrument can do that and more, especially if you're the one playing. Music is one of life's simple joys; it helps calm the mind.
4. Sense of Achievement:
If you're a beginner learning to play your first piece, it can be frustrating. But once you've mastered it, the satisfaction you'll feel is priceless. Never mind if it's just a simple piece, believe us, you'll never forget the first piece you've mastered. You are one more step closer to achieving your goal and that is certainly something to be proud of.
5. Playing A Musical Instrument is Fun:
Yes, it can be a lot of hard work, but there is no denying playing an instrument is fun. Once you get better at it, opportunities will arise for you to share your newly learned skill with your family and friends. Who knows, you may also consider playing professionally in the future just like some of our former members. Playing a musical instrument opens up a lot of good possibilities that are bound to enrich your life.
