Please enjoy reading our potted history. If you would like to see our full history and documentation, please contact us.
The Sandown and Shanklin Military band was formed in 1860, initially a brass band. The first report in the local press has been traced back to 20th Dec 1866 when the band played for Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee. The MD was Mr Claude Comden. Another favourable report was found for the 'Sandown Town Band' on 2nd May 1867. The band is then well documented at various events and concerts mainly in the IOW Chronicle. 1912 saw the band investing in new uniforms and forging strong links with local business and the local town council. A selection of instruments were added to the band and these included woodwind and the start of the modern wind band we are today was forming.
Here is a historic photograph of the Sandown Town Band October 29th 1908. Note the inclusion of woodwind instruments.
The 1920 saw the band flourish as the Sandown Band with numerous engagements and resulting publicity. In the early 1930's the band changed its name to The Sandown and Shanklin Military Band the name it still carries today.
1936 - SSMB at Sandown pavilion
Decades of successful banding passed including serving as an ensemble during WWII.
The last recorded marching event foe the band was held in 1966. True to its military name the band marched regularly, however the choice was made to play as a seated concert band.
1985 saw an investment in smart navy blue stage jackets with straight ties and bow ties for evening. Giving the band a more modern look. The band today performs regularly around the IW, performs every year at the RBL service on Sandown Seafront and enjoys successful Rystone bandstand seasons and various charitable fund razing concerts. We look forward to many more years of happy music making :-)
;-) x
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