Blackburn & Darwen Band Visit Cornwall – Sunshine, Music, and Friendship

The Blackburn & Darwen Band have just returned from a truly memorable tour of Cornwall – a trip filled with sunshine, spectacular music-making, and the warmest of welcomes from our Cornish friends.

Our three-day musical adventure began on Friday, where we performed in the beautiful setting of a Cornish church. The acoustics brought out the richness of the band’s sound and set the tone for what was to be an outstanding weekend of music.

On Saturday, we were blessed with glorious weather for our performance at the Charlestown Regatta. With the sun shining and the sea sparkling, the atmosphere was electric. Locals and visitors gathered to enjoy a lively programme, with applause and smiles all round – the perfect setting for a summer’s day concert.

The tour reached a high point on Sunday, when we joined forces with the St Austell Band for a joint concert in their bandroom. The people of Cornwall, and the St Austell Band in particular, extended such warmth and hospitality that we truly felt at home.

Our concerts were made even more special by the presence of our guest soloist, Tom Smith from the world-famous Brighouse & Rastrick Band. Tom’s stunning performances were a real treat for audiences and players alike.

We must also give special mention to some standout solo performances from within our own ranks. Danny wowed the crowds with his euphonium playing, Ollie impressed with dazzling xylophone work, and our trombone trio brought a real highlight to the programme. This trio featured our own players plus ex-member Jim Bone, who happened to be visiting his mum in Cornwall, stepping in while our solo trombone player Jill enjoyed a well-deserved cruise!

Of course, no tour would be possible without the help of our deputy players, who stepped in to ensure we could put on our very best performances – we are hugely grateful for their time and talent.

A huge thank you once again to everyone in Cornwall who made us feel so welcome, especially our friends in the St Austell Band. We returned home tired but happy, with wonderful memories of great music, great company, and glorious Cornish sunshine.

We'd also like to thanks our brilliant coach driver from Moving People and

of course, Alan Thomas, who organised the whole trip!

Until next time – keep the music playing! 🎶