Join Hebden Bridge Junior Band
Beginners learn in our Debut Band. Experienced players perform in our Junior Band.
Want to Join?
About the band
Get Started
Beginner
Beginners
We welcome complete beginners with no previous music experience at all. Come along to a friendly Thursday rehearsal, try out different instruments and get all the support and guidance you need to start playing with confidence.
More Experienced Players
Experienced Players
All members receive two free brass lessons from experienced instructors. Lessons are tailored to your level, whether you're picking up an instrument for the first time or developing advanced skills.
Advanced
Instrument Hire
The band provides brass instruments to all members, so you can start playing without buying an instrument. As you progress, you're welcome to continue using our instruments or purchase your own.
When & Where We Meet
Band practice takes place during term time, on Thursdays at Hope Chapel in Hebden Bridge.
Complete Beginners
4:00pm - 4:30pm
Starting from scratch. No experience needed. Learn to hold your instrument, make your first sounds, and master the basic notes.
Debut Band
4:30pm - 5:30pm
Once you can play basic notes confidently, you move to Debut Band to play songs as an ensemble. When ready, you'll join the Performing Band for the first 30 minutes of their practice.
Performing Band
5:00pm - 7:00pm
Our main ensemble performing at concerts and events across Yorkshire. Debut Band members typically progress here after 12+ months of practice. If you're already an experienced brass player, you can join the Performing Band directly.
What it costs
Your first two sessions are free. From then on, if you'd like to join the band:
£32 per member, per month (half price for all siblings)
Includes instrument hire (we ask for a £50 deposit per instrument), music, and tuition up to the point where they can confidently play basic notes.
Fees also cover the cost of weekly refreshments, subsidised trips and tours, and band uniform.
FAQs
Everything You Need to Know Before Enrolling
Everything you need to know about joining, instruments, and how the band works.
Do I need my own instrument?
No. We provide brass instruments for all members. You'll pay a £50 deposit per instrument, which is refunded when you return it.
Do I need any musical experience?
No. Our Complete Beginners group is for people who've never played before. If you're already an experienced brass player, you can join the Performing Band directly.
What ages do you accept?
We welcome young people aged 7-19.
Can my child try it before committing?
Yes. Your first two sessions are free with no obligation. This gives you a chance to see if the band is right for your child.
How much does it cost?
£32 per month after your free trial sessions. Siblings are half price. There's a £50 deposit per instrument, which is refunded when you return it.
When and where do you rehearse?
Thursdays during term time at Hope Chapel, Hope Street, Hebden Bridge. Times depend on your level: Complete Beginners (4-4:30pm), Debut Band (4:30-5:30pm), Performing Band (5-7pm).
Which band would my child join?
Complete beginners start in our 4-4:30pm group. Once they can play basic notes confidently, they move to Debut Band. Experienced players can join the Performing Band directly.
How long does it take to progress from Debut Band to Performing Band?
It depends on how much you practice. With enthusiasm and regular practice, several of our members progress within a year.
Do members have to perform at events?
Complete Beginners don't perform publicly. Debut Band members perform occasionally. Performing Band members perform regularly at concerts and community events across Yorkshire.
What if my child misses a rehearsal?
Just let us know in advance. We understand that life happens.
Ready to Join?
Whether you're 7 or 19, complete beginner or experienced player, there's a place for you in the band.
Thanks!
We’ll be in touch soon.
We’ll be in touch soon.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.