Crystal Palace Band was founded by the Upper Norwood Temperance Society and held its first rehearsal on 31st January 1901.

The band was first called the Upper Norwood Temperance Prize Band and lived up to its name in its first year by securing prizes at all three contests it entered. Over time it became closely linked with the Crystal Palace and played there for many years.

After the First World War, permission was granted in 1924 by the Crystal Palace Company to change the name to The Crystal Palace Band.

In 1936 the band's close association with the Crystal Palace Company came to an end when the Palace burned down. Until 1936 the National Brass Band Championships were held at the Crystal Palace with the band winning the Grand Shield (Second Section) twice in the 1920's.

The band reached a peak during the 1930's as a Championship Section Band under the baton of Dr Denis Wright, the well-known composer, arranger and conductor.

After the Second World War the band's fortunes gradually declined as membership dwindled.

At one time in the 1970's there were only a handful of players left. But the band kept going with the determined efforts of a few die-hards.

Today there are over 30 playing members in the main band with a thriving training band as well.

In 1996 the band received an extra boost after being awarded lottery funding from the Arts Council for England which together with its own funds enabled the purchase of a whole new set of band instruments.

Crystal Palace Band has performed at numerous venues over the years including Royal Parks, concert halls, carnivals, shows, BBC Radio and has even recorded a soundtrack for a film.

The band has also made numerous successful trips to Europe including concerts in Belgium, Holland and Germany. The band is looking forward to improving musical performances, further contest successes and continued involvement with the local area.

One particular aim will be to find and acquire a permanent rehearsal room for the band so that it can continue to provide musical entertainment, and encourage local brass players to progress and perform.

On Saturday The Crystal Palace Brass Band played for a marvellous Gala Centenary Concert.

Staged at Ravensbourne School in Bromley, the evening culminated in The Palatians, a piece written especially for the band by a former player, and which has since become the band's signature tune.

The celebrations continued with the Band Secretary Mrs Rachel Bleach cutting an anniversary cake and the band members toasting 100 years of top brass entertainment.

The retiring collection was for St Christopher's Hospice, the band's chosen charity for 2001. The event raised a total of £1700.

December 3, 2001 13:00