About UsLeicester Community Concert Band (LCCB) was established in 2007 in response to an initiative taken by Sheehan’s Music Services to form a wind ensemble which would encourage lapsed musicians to take up their instruments again. Originally called ‘2nd Wind’, the ensemble quickly grew from 15 to over 60 musicians and is now one of the largest amateur wind ensembles in Leicestershire. In 2013 '2nd Wind' became an independent organisation and was renamed 'Leicester Community Concert Band'.
In 2017-18 the band celebrated its 10th Anniversary by taking part in the National Concert Band Festival, receiving a Platinum Award in the regional event. As a result the band was invited to take part in the National Finals held at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester, when the band achieved a Gold Award. The 10th Anniversary culminated in a spectacular joint concert with the Band of the Grenadier Guards in the summer of 2018 and the band were delighted to welcome the band back again in 2019. LCCB produced a CD to mark their 10th Anniversary, reflecting the development of the band and demonstrating its varied repertoire which has an appeal for a wide range of musical tastes. The CD is available through any member of the band, priced £10, and we hope you will enjoy the result. As the size of the band increased, LCCB outgrew Attenborough Arts Centre and in the Autumn of 2019 moved to its new home at The Big Shed, where it has been made to feel extremely welcome. In October 2021 the band was successful in its application to become a registered charity, with charity number 1196047. LCCB rehearses every Wednesday evening during term time at The Big Shed Conference Centre (Covenant Life Church), 93 Commercial Square, Freemens Common, Leicester, LE2 7SR from 7.00 - 9.00pm. There are no formal auditions, but a reasonable level of proficiency is now required - equivalent to Grade 5 standard - although it is not a pre-requisite to have taken the exam. We strive to provide a friendly and supportive environment within which all musicians can progress at their own rate. Interest from prospective members is always welcomed. |
Musical Director - Brian Humpherson MBEAfter qualifying as a music teacher in 1967, Brian held posts in Nottingham and Leicestershire schools. He was invited to work as a conductor for the Leicestershire School of Music and often acted as musical director for a number of choirs and operatic societies, notably Broom Leys Choral Society which he directed for 29 years.
As Director of Music and Performing Arts at Guthlaxton College, Brian led the Guthlaxton Concert Band and Big Band to national and international success. The college also became renowned for its strong tradition in musical theatre. After leaving the classroom he continued to work as a music examiner, teacher trainer and arts moderator until his retirement in 2016. A keen pianist, Brian has held a lifelong interest in jazz and popular music. He still performs regularly with various ensembles, including the Nottingham Jazz Orchestra and his own quintet. He was awarded an MBE for services to music education in Leicestershire. |
Committee / Trustees |
The band is managed by an elected committee, who are also the trustees of the charity:
Chair - Ian Robinson (trumpet) Treasurer - Cathy Highton (clarinet) Secretary - Ann Churcher (clarinet) Concert Manager - Jon Dexter (flute) Additional committee members/trustees - Ed Matthews (flute), Jon Lee (trumpet), Alison Briggs (French horn), Dee Lehan Matthews |