About Us
Swindon Brass initially developed as an extension of Swindon Young Musician's Youth Brass Band in 1982, to provide an outlet for band members who were over eighteen years of age. In January 1986 the band registered as Swindon Youth Brass to enable them to contest.
The band continued to function under the auspices of Swindon a Young Musician's until 1991 when, the band became known as Swindon Band.
In early 1992 the band competed in the Regional Championships, and we have competed ever since, where we currently play in the Third Section.
We were fortunate to be awarded a National Lottery grant for a new set of instruments, and we became a registered charity with a mission to promote music and raise funds within the local community.
Swindon Brass is a registered member of Brass Bands England and are strong supporters of all equality and safeguarding policies, details are available on request.
Our Musical Director is Steve Yorke, who leads us with great skill, enthusiasm and humour. He has successfully taken us to the brass band National Finals in 2025 and 2026, along with a host of silverware from Oxfordshire District entertainment contest.
Our founding Musical Director was Francis Cowley. He founded Swindon Brass in 1998 for Swindon Young Musicians players that were too old for the Youth Brass Band, especially considering the prior lowering of the Age of Majority from 21 to 18 You can read more about Fran here
