Our History

Woodley Concert Band is a community wind band formed in 1974 to provide an outlet for the musical aspirations of the local community. The founder members came together as the result of some evening classes at Waingels Copse Education Centre a year earlier and when the course finished, the band, under the direction of Bernard Heaver, carried on and WCB was born! Over the years, the band has grown in size, ambition and ability and is now much sought after for a variety of events. A registered charity, the band secured a Lottery Commission grant in 1998 to equip the band with new instruments.

Today

The band now consists of over 45 musicians, meeting once a week to rehearse in Woodley, Reading. Our aim is to entertain our audiences with a wide variety of music, and to provide our players with opportunities to extend their repertoire and skills. Through our music, we have also been glad to help raise significant sums of money for local charities.

During an average year, we give 3 major indoor concerts, and appear at approximately 15 outdoor events from June to September. In 2008, we were delighted to be invited to play for the first time at Eastbourne Bandstand, as part of the prestigious Summer Entertainment season organised by Eastbourne Council. The band’s appetite for travel thus whetted, we’re looking forward to revisiting Eastbourne and venturing even further afield to Belgium in 2010.

Our Music ...

Our repertoire is extensive. With a library of more than 1000 pieces of music, we have music to suit all tastes and abilities. We have commissioned many pieces for special occasions, and enjoy mixing the familiar favourites with contemporary music in programmes incorporating pieces from the classics to the pops, show music to film scores and easy listening to jazz. In our concerts we often feature local musicians making guest solo appearances.

... And more!

We're not just about music though! The band leads an active social life, with regular outings from bowling to barbecues and bars to bonfire nights, meaning that there’s something for everyone and, of course, we make a great team when we make music.

Want to get involved? Find out about joining the band.

Want to hear us? Find out where you can see us next.