Kirkby Stephen Silver Band are busy preparing for their biggest musical challenge yet — a 24-hour summer solstice playathon.
As Saturday, 21st June, dawns, it will not only be the longest day of the year, it will also mark the beginning of what is sure to be the longest day for members of the town band.
A spokeswoman said: “For 24 relentless hours, through day and night, rain or shine, exhaustion and euphoria, we will play — pushing our instruments, our lips, and our very souls to the limit!”
And they are calling for the community’s support to help with their fundraising challenge, to make their riverside premises accessible to disabled people — through installation of a ramp and adapted toilets.
“Whether you come to cheer us on, donate to our cause, or bring us emergency supplies of tea and biscuits, every bit of encouragement keeps us going.
“Join us on the weekend of 21st June as we defy the limits of musical stamina and raise vital funds for our band,” said the spokeswoman.
Before that, the band will also be taking part in the second Brass at the Castle event on 17th and 18th May at Brougham Hall, near Penrith.
Following last year’s successful debut, next month’s event, again organised by Drum and Brass, is promising to be even bigger and better.
A spokesman said: “This year’s festival celebrates Cumbria’s rich brass band tradition of grassroots musical excellence.
“Taking place over two days, Brass at the Castle 2025 will bring together bands from across the region and beyond. The festival, held in the historic Brougham Hall, will deepen community connections and inspire the next generation of brass players.
“Building on last year’s event, this year’s programme will feature an extended line-up, interactive workshops for beginners and pros alike, and hands-on family activities.”
Drum and Brass CEO, Julie Hoggarth, said: “Music has been hard hit recently by austerity and a squeeze on state school curricula. We know that music has a transformative effect on long-term wellbeing, and this festival hopes to offer people ways into music where they can learn skills that will benefit them through their whole life. We are showing people that music is available in your community and is accessible for all.”
With support from Arts Council England, Westmorland and Furness Council, Brass Bands England, Lancashire Music Hub and the Royal Northern College of Music, the festival hopes to inspire the spirit of creativity and music across Cumbria.
Through performance, education and hands-on workshops, Brass at the Castle is set to ensure Cumbria’s brass tradition thrives for generations to come.
On Sunday, 27th April, Kirkby Stephen Silver Band will be at The Engine Shed at Kirkby Stephen’s Pennine View Park where they will be giving a spring concert, starting at 6pm, called It’s All About Us!
“It’s an evening of music specially selected by our band members. Every member picked a song, and the result is a wonderfully eclectic mix,” the spokeswoman added.
