A Brief History of the Band

The roots of Rushen Silver Band were in the village of Surby, a small village about a mile outside Port Erin, when, in 1926, a group of lads got together with six concertinas and a kettledrum!  Unfortunately, 6 years later they ceased to meet for various reasons, but in 1937 under the direction of Jamesie and Thomasie Clague, the Surby Band was reformed, now numbering about 18, but now comprising of mouth-organs, as well as the concertinas and a kettledrum.  With the outbreak of war, many of the younger members left for active service, but on their return, and with a few extras the Surby Silver Band was formed, and the first brass instruments were introduced.

In 1949 the Band became aware of a fund held by Port St Mary Commissioners for the formation of a Band in the Parish of Rushen.  As no more information was forthcoming, and after much discussion and heart-searching, the band changed it’s name and became the ‘Rushen Silver Band’.  Many were disappointed when the  sum of £19 17s 6d was released!  However, the Rushen Silver Band is probably a more accurate name for the Band you now see, with members being geographically more widespread and with a number living outside the Parish.

In November 1983 the Band reached another milestone, with the opening of the Bandroom, now back in Ballafesson after many moves around the area.  It was built and funded by the Band members and friends, and is a lasting tribute to members past and present.  This achievement was only made possible, without grants, by the generosity and support of all our Vice Presidents, the Friends of the Band, families, supporters and local residents.

In recent years, the Band has had much success, regularly competing in the local Manx Music Festival, winning the March and Hymn class 4 times in the last 5 years.  Another success of a different kind is the instrumental teaching of young people, both within the Band and for beginners.  This helps to give the Band the enthusiasm and drive to continue, not just to make music, but also as a social activity for the community.  Indeed the Band is moving from strength to strength with over 110 concerts and rehearsals last year.

In 1999, Rushen Silver Band celebrated 50 years of its change of name.  This was celebrated in numerous events, culminating in a joint concert with our neighbours, the Castletown Metropolitan Silver Band, during which we premiered a new march, ‘Rushen Gold’, dedicated to the Band, and also a new hymn, ‘Surby Bridge’ with words written by a past President of the Band, and current chairman of the Friends of the Band, Mrs Joyce Corlett.