Dark Peak Concert Band performs at a recent event
The Music for Youth Proms is a prestigious 2-day annual musical extravaganza highlighting some of the best orchestras, bands, and singers from across the UK. Derbyshire’s own Dark Peak Concert Band were invited to play at the national finals in Birmingham’s Symphony Hall in July after impressing at the regional auditions. The band’s performance in Birmingham caught the attention of the adjudicators and the invitation to perform at the Proms places the group amongst the country’s leading youth wind bands.
The Music Education Hub is led by the Derby & Derbyshire Music Partnership, which supports more than 1,500 young musicians through seven area music centres across the county.
Councillor Alex Dale, Cabinet Member for Education, said:
“It’s incredibly exciting that Dark Peak Concert Band have been invited to play at such a significant event. It’s a testament to the young musicians, the musical directors, and the local volunteers that they’ve been recognised as one of the best in the country. We’re proud to have Derbyshire represented on such a prestigious stage and I wish the band the best of luck with their performance.
“Performing music and being part of a band can have such a positive impact on a young person’s life and I would encourage anyone who’s interested to look up Derbyshire Music Education Hub to find their nearest music centre.”
Principal Musical Director Jeff Snowdon said:
“It’s 23 years almost to the day since we held the first rehearsal of a new children's band in Glossop. It started in 2000 with just a dozen beginners playing Christmas carols, and the band has now achieved national recognition and a once in a lifetime experience representing Derbyshire on one of the world’s most famous stages.
“They are a wonderful group of young people, supporting each other and working as a team to the highest professional standards. Each generation of the band has stood on the shoulders of the last and it’s been fantastic to see the level of dedication and commitment which has led to this outstanding achievement.”
To find out more about bands, choirs, lessons, and events, on the Derbyshire Music Hub.