Houghton Brass

Unlike other bands in the North of England, Houghton Brass has a rather young history.

Formed in 1983 by Tom Gibson, the band was created for players in the Houghton Schools Band who wanted to continue performing but did not want to leave to play for other adult bands in the area. 

The band impressively began to contest in its first year of existence, entering the Tyne and Wear Contest in the third section which paved the way for a very successful contest history. Between 1984 and 1991 they moved from the Fourth Section all the way to the Championship Section in the North of England Area Championships. As a result they have enjoyed many appearances at National Championships, including visits to Cheltenham, Harrogate, Torquay, Dundee, and The Royal Albert Hall. 

The band currently compete in the Second Section, having been the Third Section North of England and National Champions in 2015 and they hope to continue improving, following what have been an incredible few years. 

The band are not entirely focussed on contests however; they undertake a busy but managable concert schedule throughout the year, performing in the North of England and further affield and have enjoyed many tours over the years to Holland, Austria, Germany, and Switzerland. 

Houghton rehearse on Thursdays and some Sundays, and welcome members of any age from 11 upwards to their very sociable rehearsals.