The Brass Band Forum

Last year I joined a new band, because the 2nd section band I was with was not giving me what I wanted any more. The move was the best decision I ever made because now I'm in a 1st section band. - I'm leaving names out-

I play Flugal horn and am really loving it. I've been playing for nearly 9 years now and as I have progressed from section to section so has my playing. But I have a real problem. The band I am with is quite a long way from where I live and takes up alot of time and money (Fuel & distance) and of course when the band is a long distance so is are the venues. My weekend is taken up by the band and it is starting to effect my work and relationships with friends and relatives.

Yet I am getting so much from the band and my playing is really improving, and i LOVE brass bands. The atmosphere the people and playing alongside experienced people. I don't know what to do! Do I leave and go to the local Brass band (4th Section)- who have a full horn section, so I risk the move onto another instrument- do I stay with the band but risk getting behind with work and social life, Stay and improve or do I stop playing in Brass Bands all together?

Does anyone have any Ideas?!?!?!?!?!?!?

Can you quantify the distance? I've known people to travel a couple of hours to band (but that was in the top section), and others moan that they wouldn't drive more than 1/4 hour to a band (but that was in the 2nd section).

Well it takes about 1hr 15mins to get there and obviously the same back. So thats 2 1/2 hours of driving and fuel.

I guess it all depends on what you like most about the band. I would be prepared to travel a fair distance to play for fun with a band that did lots of village jobs, carnivals, bandstands etc but not just for playing endless test pieces and boring contest practise. For me the 4th section band would be the most fun.

If playing with the 1st section band can replace your work, friends and family without too much bother, then stick with it. Of course, if you're going to get fired, beaten up and ex-communicated, maybe 4th section is the place to be.

Good luck!

Only you can figure this one out - I used to travel quite a distance in my younger days and often felt exhausted and as you say the gigs are normally local to where the bandroom is situated. However, for the couple of years I did it, it was well worth the sacrifices.

Why don't you see how the summer goes, and then make a decision in the winter, when, with dark nights, etc., you will have a better idea of what you want to do?

Playing should always be fun and not become a burden.

Tina