History of SGB

Back in early 2006, a number of final-year undergraduates at Southampton University were sad that they would shortly have to leave their favourite university society, the Southampton University Concert Band.

Most of them had been on the commitee - four of them had been president for one of their three or four years in the band. As they were all happy living in the Southampton area, they decided to put their knowledge to good use and form a new band. That new band was called "Old Bangers and Blowers". Following a number of months of rehearsals with only a handful of members, and a distinct lack of concerts, those members of SUCB graduating in 2007 were approached, and by Easter 2007, the membership had grown sufficiently to allow a summer gig to take place. At this point, the band was renamed Southampton Grad Band.

The Band As It Stands 

Since then, a handful of those leaving the university have joined us each year. We have also opened our membership up to anyone - our name is merely for historical purposes. We now have about 25 members who attend regularly, with a few others who have moved away who attend when they are able. Around 10 members are on the committee and are responsible for the day-to-day operation of the band. We have an AGM each January where members can stand for election to the committee.

Our Music and Instruments

Following in the steps of SUCB, we are technically a "Concert Band", or "Wind Band". The following instruments provide the core of most of our pieces:

• Flute / Piccolo
• Bb Clarinet
• Bass Clarinet
• Oboe
• Bassoon
• Alto, Tenor, and Baritone Saxophones
• Trumpet
• Trombone
• French Horn
• Euphonium
• Tuba
• Keyboard
• Electric Bass
• Drum Kit / Percussion

There are a few additional instruments which fit into the band as well, though you may end up reading a different part, transposing a part, or writing a completely new part  - soprano sax, flugelhorn and double bass are a few that come to mind.

Please note that we are not an orchestra and therefore do not have any string instruments (with the exception of electric bass).

Our musical repertoire

Our music falls into the following general categories:

• Traditional (e.g. The Dambusters, the Holst 1st and 2nd Suites, The Liberty Bell March)
• Stage and Screen (e.g. Miss Saigon, Jurassic Park, Chicago, The Lion King, West Side Story, Les Miserables)
• Popular Music (e.g. The Beatles, Take That, Tequila, Abba)
• Big Band / Jazz (e.g. Blues Brothers Revue)
• Classical arrangements (e.g. Carmen, Lord of the Dance, Montagues and Capulets, The Nutcracker Suite)

Additionally, some of our pieces are arranged by our own members. Generally, our pieces are around grade 5 standard, though some pieces can be somewhat harder.

Information for existing members

Additional information for existing members can be found here.