Ipswich Community Wind Band


Band History

The Ipswich Community Wind Band was formed in 1992 by some of the woodwind and brass players from the Suffolk-based Community Light Orchestra. The band began life with nine members, and the first rehearsals took place at the Ipswich home of Ted Finch. Together with his wife Maureen, he managed the running of the band for nearly 15 years.

As the band began to grow, larger rehearsal venues were used, including the Chapel at St Clements Hospital and the Henley Village Community Centre. The current rehearsal venue is Dumbarton Hall in North-East Ipswich.
All our musical directors have worked hard to improve our standards. Tom Rumbold is the current Musical Director. He took over from Peter Gray on 1st November 2006. Peter, in his turn, had taken over from Brian Stansmore, who passed away in April 2003. At Brians "Memorial Concert" Peter had composed a concert march in memory of Brian, simply called "Stansmore".

The band rehearses weekly on Wednesday mornings. Every year they perform in both formal concerts and at summer fetes, and other functions. As well as performing in various Suffolk venues, the band has performed to appreciative Kent audiences at the Herne Bay and Broadstairs Bandstands.
The membership of the band has swelled over the years and currently numbers over 35 players. We enjoy making music together and make a happy social atmosphere.

The Covid 19 pandemic started in 2020. It stopped performances and interrupted reheasals. Members practised at home and met in virtual team meetings. We maintained our enthusiasm and now look forward to preformimg as for you soon as possible.