CONGRATULATIONS!!

Believe it or not in 1979 a group of 5 people got together under the guidance of a rather large and scary man. I should explain...

That man was Alec Warne, and to a 10 year old of the height I was then he was huge. But not as huge as his enthusiasm for music, and the educational and social development of young players. That group of five has become what is now know as the Kingston Youth Concert Band!

On the 11th July 2004 a huge party was held at Teddington School in celebration of the bands 25 years of existence. A band of over 40 ex members from all eras was assembled and gave an hours performance of pieces played by the band during that time, and was conducted by Alec in the presence of the Mayor of Kingston. The present band followed with an hours performance of new music conducted by the current conductor, Chris Higgins.

The day progressed with a buffet meal and a chance to visit the 'archive room', where people could watch tour videos, read letters sent in from people unable to attend, peruse some 75 concert programs, and see photo albums from years gone by. After the obligatory speeches, presents, and a rather surprising rendition of "Gold Higgins" composed and sung by the present band, the Big Band (complimented by anyone who wanted to sit in) entertained right up until the end.

Strong are the friendships developed in the band, and it was especially nice to see so many children of ex members running around and enjoying the music. We were especially honored to be joined by two very special friends from the Swedish Fyris River Band, namely 'Mad' Pelle and 'Big' Fred, who flew over specially for the event. KYCB and FRB have been friends since our first tour in 1982 and it is with great sadness we have to report that FRB are now no longer going, although their spirit is still very much alive.