TRADITIONAL Youth Marching Bands from across the UK will be in Rugby this weekend to mark the centenary of the end of the First World War.
The Traditional Youth Marching Bands Association (TYMBA), in partnership with the Rugby Rotary (Satellite Club), is holding its annual National Championships at Lawrence Sheriff School in the town on Sunday (October 14).
TYMBA chair Andy Downton said: “I was delighted when we were approached by Rugby Rotary to be part of their commemorations for this historic year.
“Our bands, coming from as far afield as Greater Manchester, West Yorkshire and Greater London, are all excited to be a part of the day and are already working hard on both their competition routines and the Beating Retreat music.”
The TYMBA National Championships are the finals of a year of competition across the country where bands are judged on their drill, display, music, percussion and other aspects, all with the aim of building the ability of young musicians, many of who go on to become professional musicians in the British military.
Rob Close from Rugby Rotary (Satellite Club), said: “Rugby Rotary looks forward to a great afternoon of music and marching, followed in the evening by an end of First World War Centenary Ball at the Benn Hall in Rugby.”
Rugby mayor Tom Mahoney added: “I am delighted that Rugby with its central location in the country has been selected as the venue for this great event.”
The Royal Marines Band Service recruiting team and a Corps of Drums are also attending to put on displays and talk to people about a career as a Royal Marines musician.
The championships start at 11.30am with the Beating Retreat from 3pm. Entry is £5 (£8 for families).
Visit www.tymba.org for further details.
