About us & Rehearsals

History of the band

The City of Swansea Concert Band was founded in 1968 by the late Stuart Price. It was then known as the West Cross & Mumbles Military Band, and performed its first engagement in July 1968 in the grounds of Oystermouth Castle, Mumbles (Mumbles is a village close to Swansea). Here are the only two photos of that occasion with Stuart Price conducting:

By 1970, the band had become the Mumbles Concert Band, and played under that title until March 1984 when, with the permission of the City Council, it changed its name to reflect the area it covers, namely the City of Swansea. Over the last 40 odd years, it has grown in numbers to an average of about 40 players ranging in age from 14 to over 75, and members of the band come from all walks of life. We have good links with Swansea University, and students often come and play with us.

The Musical Directors of the band have been Stuart Price 1968 to 1998, Stephen Price 1998 to January 1999, John Price 1999-2020, and Stephen Price again currently.

Rehearsal Details

Rehearsals take place on a Wednesday in the All Souls Church Hall, Harlech Crescent, Tycoch Road, Sketty, Swansea SA2 9LP from 19.30 to 21.30. We find this allows ample time to get things right for any concerts.

New members soon fit in and are warmly welcomed. If you feel like blowing (or hitting) your instrument in convivial company, you can simply turn up at a rehearsal and see our Musical Director, Stephen P Price (or any member of the band), or get in touch with him in advance on 07521 971331 or email stevep147@googlemail.com, or with the band secretary, Gill Wildman on 07713 846454, email gillw1956@icloud.com.

We obviously prefer members to turn up regularly, and most do, but we understand each individual has their own commitments and appreciate whatever attendance they can make. Students tend not to be there during vacation (and at exam times), but we're terribly understanding and don't put any pressure on anyone.