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INVERKEITHING COMMUNITY BIG BAND In The Beginning... The vision of the Inverkeithing Community Big Band was one of inclusion. It would be an opportunity where like minded music lovers of all ages could join together to make music and develop their own music skills. The band then could share their music with the wider community, giving the chance for others not only to enjoy the performance but also the chance to "host" a concert to raise funds for their own good causes. National Lottery The band is part of Inverkeithing High School's further education programme. Backed by £5000 funding from school PTA an application was put forward to the National Lottery for a total sum of £20,000 to start this venture. The application was successful in November 1998. Costs... The initial funds were used to purchase instruments, equipment, insurance and music. Some adults had played instruments as young people but had no funds to purchase these expensive instruments. Now they could hire a band instrument for a small fee. Membership... The band has a membership of 26. The ages range from 13 - 86 years! Giving the band the unique position of spanning 73 years! The young members gain experience from older members and the older members enjoy the drive and energy of the young! All members donate their own time and travel expenses to fundraising concerts. The Story So Far... The band travels mainly throughout Fife giving performances for good causes. There is a small ensemble that travels during the day to perform to daytime groups. They share those special songs like Autumn Leaves & Slow Boat to China. This is a very popular group with our older friends in the community We have support from Inverkeithing High School, a team of non playing members and a community policeman who plays and arranges some music for us. We have a founder member that now lives in Cromarty and continues to be a support via the internet with the odd personal appearance!! With now 68 performances under our belt we are very proud that we have raised over £20,400 for good causes to date January 2006 The Future... The priority will be to continue and develop our music making and to share our music with as may people in the community. So come and join us! All you need is an ability to play and a lot of enthusiasm for Big Band swing…..or come along to one of our performances and share our community music making! See you there! |