INTRODUCTION

This is the history of the band told through various transcripts from newpaper clippings, historic photographs, extracts of band records, documents and other memorabilia.  The band has been in existence in some form for well over a century and has maintained strong links with the local community, having had a close involvement in the cultural activities of the Comber area throughout that time.  It first began as a flute band with its origins in the local Boy's Brigade Company, before later becoming a brass band in 1949.

During its history the band had several changes in name which are listed below with the relevant years.  As an organisation, it is currently a charity registered as "Comber Brass", with the senior band performing and contesting as the 'Comber Silver Band' and the junior band performing and contesting as the 'Comber Brass Youth Band'.

"2nd Comber Boys Brigade Flute Band"

  (1900 - 1911)

"2nd Comber Old Boys Flute Band"

(1912 - 1919)

"Comber Amateur Flute Band"

(1920 - 1948)

"Comber Amateur Silver Band"

( 1949 – 1974)

"Comber Silver Band"

(1975 - 1999)

"Comber Brass"

  (1999 - today)

The band is grateful to all those who have contributed in compiling this history, and acknowledgements are given where appropriate. 

List of newspaper transcripts

Duke and Duchess Go Home - 1924

(a reference to the Duke and Duchess of York, later King George VI and Queen Elizabeth)

'Belfast Telegraph' 28 June 1924

As the Royal train approached Comber Station there were very enthusiastic scenes.  Immediately the Royal train stopped their Royal Highnesses alighted and their reception was perhaps one of warmest and most whole-hearted that they have received since coming to Ulster. Some time elapsed before Lord Londonderry could have an opportunity of carrying out a series of presentations of prominent citizens of the town, as the result of the vociferous cheering which was maintained for almost five minutes.  When comparative peace had been restored Lord Londonderry presented Mrs. Thomas Andrews to their Royal Highnesses.  With this well-known Lady the Duke chatted for a few minutes.  Mrs. Andrews presented a beautiful bouquet of white roses intermingled with fern to her Royal Highness.

The Right Hon. J. M. Andrews (Minister of Labour) was next presented.  After him came Dr Robert Henry, who presented the Duke with an excellent specimen of Irish blackthorn.  The blackthorn which is mounted with a gold crown and six gold stars representing the Six Counties was greatly admired by the Duke.  It bore the following inscription: "His Royal Highness the Duke of York from the inhabitants of Comber, July, 1924."

Lord Justice Andrews was the next to be presented, and the following were also honoured—Mrs. T. J. Andrews, Mrs. John Andrews, senior, and Miss Stone.

As the Royal pair entered the saloon the Comber Amateur Flute Band played “Rule Britannia'', and it was some minutes before the Royal train left the station, their Royal Highnesses standing in the carriage and waving to the huge crowds which assembled on both sides of the rail.  Their departure was the signal for a fresh outburst of cheering, which was continued until the train vanished from sight.

Forthcoming Bazaar - Grand Concert - 1925

'North Down Herald & Co. Down Independent' - 14 March 1925

The above concert was held in the Thomas Andrews, Jun., Memorial Hall on Thursay evening, 5th inst., commencing at 7.30.  Chairman, Robert Henry, Esq., M.D., J.P.  There was a very large attendance; this large hall being well filled.  The Chairman remarked that he was greatly pleased to see such a large audience, giving them such great support on this occasion.

There was a varied and musical programme arranged as follows :- Part 1.  Selection by the Comber Flute Band: "Old Comrades." march; "Colleen Bawn." selection: "When Clouds Vanished." arranged by Mr James Paxton.  This band was under the baton of Mr Jas. Paxton, who has been their teacher for a good many years, and the pieces were beautifully rendered, and the performance reflects great credit on both band and conductor.

Referring to the Comber Amateur Flute Band, this band has been in existence for a good many years and were fortunate in having the very valuable service of Mr James Paxton, who is well known in Belfast and the North of Ireland as a first class teacher.  He had been their conductor practically since its organisation, and he has spared no time nor expense in bringing it to the high standard which it has attained.  With the able assistance of Mr John Cannavan, who is practically the oldest member of the band at the present time, and who has to a large extent been the means of keeping the members together during the past years.  He (Mr Cannavan) has always taken a deep interest in the band, and the band members hope he will still remain with them for years to come.  About two years ago they got a new set of instruments to cope with the high standard of music to which bands have attained at present; and it was laborious work for the committee too, organising a bazaar and other functions to raise the money to buy these instruments, which they were fortunate in effecting.  The band has been in a good number of competitions during the past several years.  The following are a few of the prizes which they have won in the Intermediate grade: - 1st prize, Bellevue, Belfast, 1921; 2nd prize, Championship of Ireland, 1921; 1st prize, McConnell Cup, 1921; 2nd prize, Windsor Park, Belfasrt, 1922; also various other prizes.

At the conclusion of the proceedings, Dr Robert Henry, J.P., moved a vote of thanks for the artists for giving them such a good programme.  The meeting closed by singing "God Save the King."

Encouraging New Players -1932

'North Down Herald and County Down Independent' -  18 Jun 1932

A solo contest was held last week under the auspices of Comber Amateur Flute Band, in the bandroom.

Mr. Robert Maitland, chairman of the band, said he was pleased to welcome Mr. Charles Rollins, who kindly agreed to act as judge for their competition, which was inaugerated to encourage the younger members to take a deeper interest in band work.

Mr. James Paxton, conductor of the band, had charge of the earliest arrangements and specially arranged the test piece, "The Old Rustic Bridge."   After some good playing on the part of the members, the following awards were made; 1. Mr. James Kirk, medal presented by Mrs. Thompson; 2. Mr. David Thompson, medal, presented by Mr. James Paxton; 3. Mr. Robert Redpath, medal, presented by the band.  The competitors were complimented by Mr. Rollins, who presented the medals to the winners.

The committee of the band, who were present, were Messrs. R Maitland (chairman), Frank McKibben (secretary), David Thompson (treasurer), William McKeown (assistant secretary) William Barry, William O'Prey, James Miskelly, Matthew Wilson, R Baxter, H Todd and James Rodney. 

Annual Reunion and Dance - 1932

 'North Down Herald and County Down Independent' - 26 Nov 1932

The annual reunion and dance of Comber Amateurs Flute Band was held in the Orange Hall on Friday evening.  Mrs. S. Wilson's Melody Dance Band supplied the music and Mr. R. McIveen was M.C.  During the evening songs were contributed by Miss S. Wilson and Mr. W. Galway,  violin solos by Mr. Hollinger. and mandolin solos by Mr. R. Rodgers.   Mrs. S. Kirk, Mrs. H. Todd, Mrs. R. Rodgers, jun., Mrs. J. O'Prey,  Miss S. Wilson. and Miss Olive Maitland presided over the tea tables.

AGM Comber Flute Band - 1938

'Herald and County Down Independent' - 29 Jan 1938

The annual meeting of Comber Amateur (Prize) Flute Band was held last Friday evening, Mr. Robert Maitland (chairman) presiding.  The secretary (Mr. H Todd) read a very satisfactory report.  Mr. D Thompson (hon. treasurer) presented his financial statement showing a substantial credit balance, and on the motion of the chairman, seconded by Mr. W. O’Prey, both reports were adopted.  The following office bearers were appointed for the year: - Chairman, Mr Robert Maitland; treasurer, Mr. D Thompson; secretary, Mr. H Todd; assistant secretary, Mr. R. Cooke; committee – Messrs. Jim Boyd, H. Patton and W. O’Prey; bandmaster, Mr. James Rodney; conductor, Mr F. Macdonald.  Afterwards all the members were entertained to supper, Mr R. Maitland presiding, when a musical programme was contributed by Messrs. Harold Kirk, S. Baxter, W. O’Prey, James Kirk, J. Howden, H. Todd, F. Glover, H. Kirk, J. Boyd, John McBriar, W. McKeown, H. Maitland, R. Crawford: Messrs. D. Morgan, H. Henderson, Tom Boyd; Messrs. D. Thompson, S. Rodney, D. McKibben, S. Baxter.

New Uniform Comber Silver Band - 1950

'The Newtownards Chronicle' - 1 July 1950

An interesting ceremony took place in the Andrews Memorial Hall on Friday evening last, when the handsome new uniform of the Comber Amateur Silver Band arrived and was received by the members.  The proceedings opened with "O God Our Help" played by the band, under its conductor Mr Fred Gourley.  There followed an impressive act of dedication conducted by the Rev J E Jones BA.  Subsequently Mr Jones congratulated the band on having obtained such handsome dress.  He recalled with pleasure the long association which the band had with the BB in Comber.  Very happy relations had continued.  He congratulated the conductor of the band on their recent performance in competitions, and said that after such a recent change over to silver it was a most creditable achievement.  They looked grand in their new uniform, but it did not require new uniforms to make them a good band - they had proved that already.

The ladies' committee which had rendered invaluable service on the financial side had done a splendid job of work.  Amidst applause Miss Betty Thompson then handed a cheque to Mr D Thompson, treasurer of the band, which he suitably acknowledged.  By special request the band then gave an excellent rendering of the competition test piece.  After Rev J G Davies had asked the blessing a delightful supper was served by the ladies' committee and enjoyed by all present.  The best thanks of all present were accorded to the ladies.

Rev J G Davies added further to the congratulations.  He could think of no finer interest for young people.  He was sure the band would make a name for itself.  At the request of Mr Jas. Kirk a silent tribute was paid to all members of the band who had passed on.  An interesting and entertaining contribution was made by Mr David Caughey, who had taken great interest in the band's foundation almost fifty years ago.  Mr Fred Gourley, the band conductor, spoke of their recent success and thanked all the members for their co-operation.  He appealed for the loyal support of all.  The handsome uniform is the work of Mr Wm Herron, Dromore, who received general congratulations.  An interesting musical programme concluded a very happy evening.

History of Comber Amateur Silver Band -1953

'The Newtownards Chronicle' - 21 February 1953

Few bands have the unique record of having had four titles, but this is the case with the present Comber Amateur Silver Band, which has previously been known as the Comber Amateur Flute Band, 2nd Comber Old Boys' Flute Band, and initially 2nd Comber Boys' Brigade Flute Band.  Since its inception over half a century ago the band has built up a history of which it can be well proud, and the present combination continues to maintain the fine tradition which its predecessors established.

The band was formed by the members of the Boys' Brigade Company connected with 2nd Comber Presbyterian Church in the year 1900, largely through the efforts of Mr David Caughey, who now resides at Ballyhenry, Comber, and who was then an officer in the company.  A "Chronicle" reporter called at the band practice last week and by having a chat with some of the officials and one or two old members, many interesting facts have come to light.  First of all let's start off by giving a brief history of the band.

It is a tribute to the faithful support and keenness of the members that the band has had only four conductors throughout these years.  The first man to hold office was Mr John Frazer and he was followed by Mr Charles Massey and Mr James Paxton. The present conductor is Mr Fred Gourley of Ballygowan.  It was in Mr Paxton's time that the band decided to introduce part music after carrying on with first flutes only since the formation.

Mr John O'Prey, one of the earliest members, who still takes an active interest in the band and is a regular attender at practices, well remembers the time when this step was taken.  A few of the officials of the Boys' Brigade and band members had assembled in the home of Mr McCrea (now in Canada) to discuss the matter, when the news came of the death of King Edward VII.  They moved on to the home of Mr Paxton and it was decided to purchase part flutes.

This decision marked a great advancement for the band and in 1922 a new set of Bohem flutes was procured at a cost of approximately £500.  Ten years previously the title of the band had changed to the 2nd Comber Old Boys Flute Band and in 1920 it became the Comber Amateurs.  During this period the activities of the band were varied and many and in 1921 a first prize was secured at Bellevue contest.

It carried on as a flute band until 1949 when a very important step was taken which changed the position of the band completely.  The flutes which had stirred the air on countless occasions were put aside for the last time. They were replaced by the shining instruments of the new silver band and thus began a new era in the history of the band.  New uniforms too were purchased and they, along with the instruments, cost something in the region of £1,200.

The obvious question here is - where did they ever get all the money?  For the answer we turn to the magnificent work done by the ladies' committee.  To these fourteen ladies the band owes a debt of gratitude which they can never hope to repay and it was largely through their wonderful efforts that the money for the instruments and uniforms was raised.  Here are the fourteen names: - Mrs F Glover, Mrs D Thompson, Mrs H Thompson, Mrs L Brown, Mrs J Dickson, Mrs D Ritchie, Mrs A Patton, Mrs W O'Prey, Mrs D McKibbin, Mrs R Beers, Miss B Thompson, Miss L Jellie, Miss M Kirk and Mrs J Young.

During the past 53 years the band has been in constant demand and it is refreshing to know that the present silver band is maintaining the high traditions set by its predecessors.  The very first time the band went on parade was on an Easter Monday when they marched to Scrabo Hill for a picnic.  The members were entertained by Mrs McAlpine of Mount Alexander, and this family has always taken an intense interest in the band's welfare.  The first "Twelfth Day" demonstration attended was at Belfast in 1907 and the band has the proud record of never having since missed a 12th of July parade.

There is a humorous story connected with one of these outings and perhaps it can best be entitled "The Day Wee Harry got Lost".  It was told to the "Chronicle" reporter by Mr O'Prey and Mr John Cannavan, another old stalwart.  The band was accompanying a lodge to the demonstration at Cloughfern in 1912 and as was then the custom they were under the supervision of a police constable - in this case he happened to be a Roman Catholic and was voted as one of the best "sports" one could wish for.  Wee Harry Thompson was playing the triangle on that particular day and he was indeed a very proud boy.  Mr Cannavan was in charge of the band and he suddenly realised that Wee Harry was missing from the ranks.  The time came to prepare for the homeward journey and John was in a terrible pickle.  The constable saw his plight and inquired as to the cause and when he learned that Wee Harry was lost he readily set himself to the task of finding him  He smiled at Mr Cannavan and assured him that he would find the "lost sheep".  The band marched through the entrance of the field and there was still no sign of Wee Harry, but when half way to Belfast the constable brought the welcome news that the boy had found more comfortable means of travel and was up in front of a car - "riding like a lord!"

One of the proudest moments for the band was when the late King George VI visited Mount Stewart when he was then the Duke of York.  On returning through Comber station the band played for him on the station platform.  It was the band, too, that led the famous Conservative Prime Minister, Bonar Law, into Comber.  After the First World War their services were in great demand and at one of the many memorial services which marked the unveiling of the memorial tablet in Comber Square, the band was warmly complimented by the late Lord Londonderry.

The O'Preys and the Thompsons are two of the families which have been associated with the band since its inauguration and both families are still represented.  The late Mr William O'Prey, one of the former enthusiasts, has two sons carrying on the family tradition - William and Ronnie, and Mr David Thompson is now regarded as the longest serving member.  Mr Harry Thompson is still well to the fore and continues his membership of the band.  This old photograph will undoubtedly arouse many memories and help to keep alive the traditions established by the old musical stalwarts of bygone years.

AGM & Social Evening - 1953

'The Newtownards Chronicle' - 5 December 1953

"On Friday evening of last week Comber Amateur Silver Band held their annual general meeting and social evening to celebrate their recent victory in the Junior First Grade Silver Band Championship of Ireland.  About 70 members and friends gathered in the bandroom and were entertained to tea by the ladies of the band, and these ladies must be congratulated for the splendid manner in which they carried out their duties.

A lovely cake bearing the inscription "Congratulations, Junior Champions" was cut by Mr E Crozier, the conductor, and Mrs Browne of the Ladies Committee, and a toast was drank to Mr E Crozier, to whom every member of the band were unanimous in their praise of this fine conductor and gentleman.  He deserves every credit for the vast improvement in the band.  Afterwards Messrs James Kirk and Ronnie O'Prey took command, and with W McClure supplying the music, a grand time was had by all.  Songs were rendered by Mrs John Young, Mrs R Glover and Mr Sam Burgess.

Prizes were won by Mr and Mrs John Mills (musical mats), Mr George Crichton and Mrs McCaughey (spot dance), and Mr Robert Smiley (passing the parcel).  Mr Fred Glover, chairman of the band, paid tribute to one of the band's most faithful servants, Mr David Thompson, who had carried on as treasurer for 20 years and was still in office.  Mr Thompson was presented with a Parker Pen Set.  Mr James Kirk thanked the chairman for all his kindness to the band.

Mr David Shields, president of the band, conducted the election of officers, which resulted as follows: - chairman, Mr Fred Glover; vice-chairman, Mr Wm McClure; treasurer, Mr David Thompson; assistant treasurer, Mr James Kirk; secretary, Mr David McKibben; assistant secretary, Mr Ronnie O'Prey; committee - Messrs J Quinn, D Browne, J Mills, A Young, E McBratney; band master, D Browne; auditors, E McBratney, W Shields; hall committee - F Glover, D McKibben, W McClure; librarians, Messrs R and W O'Prey; assistant conductor, R O'Prey; representatives of Brass Band League - D Thompson, D McKibben, D Ritchie.

During the meeting the secretary expressed his sympathy at the loss of an esteemed and respected member, Mr H Thompson, who died during the year.  Mr Thompson, a life member of the band, was always very ready to help the band in any way.  Mr E Crozier thanked the ladies for being so kind to him, his wife and his friends, and said that the ladies were those responsible for the success of any band, without their help no band could really function successfully.  It was up to them to see that their husbands or sons or fiancés attended the band regularly, as he could only do his job successfully if they came to the bandroom."

NIBA Championships  - McConnell Cup - 1954

'The Newtownards Chronicle' - 26 June 1954

 "The Comber Temperance Flute and Comber Silver Bands again brought honour to the town last weekend by being successful at the open-air championships of the North of Ireland Bands' Association held at Ramore Head, Portrush.  In the flute bands (third grade) Comber Temperance with 189 points was awarded first prize and the Windsor Cup, while in the Brass (second grade) section Comber Silver also with 189 points gained 1st and the McConnell Cup.

This is the second year that Comber Silver has been successful in band contests, and much credit is due to their conductor, Mr E Crozier, who spares no effort in the training of the band.  Mr W Dunwoody, who conducts the flute band, is also to be congratulated for the high standard reached by the band."

The first female members join the band - 1967

The band's membership register (see below) reveals that first female members in its history joined the Comber Amateur Silver Band in 1967 when Iris Martyn began paying dues in August that year, followed 2 months later in September by Adele McCaughey, then aged 11 years.  Adel's father and brothers were also members of the band in that year (see above).

Story of Comber Silver Band - 1981

'The Castlereagh Courier' - 9 July 1981

(from the ‘Follow the Bands’ column written by Alex Dempster)

"At the turn of the present century officers of the 50th Belfast (Comber) Company of the Boys Brigade decided to form a Band in the Company.  A number of flutes were bought with half-snare drums and a bass drum and the newly-formed band got down to practice at Second Comber Presbyterian Church Hall.  Many changes have occurred since those early beginnings — even within the Boys Brigade Company itself for today it is known as 2nd Comber Company and the band has also passed through three phases in its colourful history until now, like many others, it has become Comber Silver Band.

The original members, when it came time to pass out of the Boys Brigade, decided the name of the band should be changed to Comber Old Boys Flute Band and this arrangement existed for only a few years.  A decision was taken to reform the band independent of the Boys Brigade and so Comber Amateur Flute Band appeared on parade for the first time in 1908.  This most successful outfit which for years was the pride of Comber continued strongly through two world wars though many of its members saw service in the armed forces in both.  Practices were held in the British Legion Hall in Castle Lane and between the Wars these premises were purchased by the band.

Banding at times can be precarious as well as exhilarating, all bands have bad times and good, and Comber , was no different from others.  But in 1949 during a lean spell when membership was on the wane, a decision was taken by the committee to turn to brass, thinking that the recent craze for brass bands would create a new interest.  The decision proved to be right for 2nd Comber Boys Brigade had just decided to form a Silver Band within the Company and as a link still existed between the two organisations a flow of membership playing the same type of instruments was assured for the senior outfit.  It is interesting to note that one summer, Comber Amateur Flute Band was carrying out local engagements and twelve months hence the same membership were parading in the same engagements as Comber Silver Band.

In 1962 because of a rebuilding programme which would take in the site on which the British Legion Hall stood the Comber band decided to build its own hall at Laurel Bank.  With the help of a few friends the members constructed the building by themselves and today it is one of the finest halls in the country.

As in all small towns or villages, connections stand out when past membership is spoken of in connection with Comber Band .e.g. Kirks; Harold, James, Gilmore and William;  Quinns; William, James Robert and George;  O’Preys; John, William, William Jun. and Ronald; Boyds;  James, David and Tom;  McKibbins; William, Frank and David;  Thompsons; Harry, David and Scott;  Maitlands; Robert and James;  Wilsons; Matthew and Samuel.  This remarkable line-up of families as far as I know were serving at the one time.  Fancy picking an argument amongst that lot!

Just as these family names were present in the Flute Band membership similar patterns appear in the present Silver Band line-up, e.g.:  Mills — John, Hamilton,-Tom Raymond and Ralph;  McCaugheys  Albert, Samuel, Russell and Adele;  Brownes — David and Raymond;  Young — Alfred and Ted;  Martyn — Wilfred and Iris and Iris’s husband, Ken Brown;  Mercer — Robert and Stephen.

Over recent years these names have given great service to the band and have helped to keep up the family tradition.  The longest serving member at present is James Kirk who recently completed 50 years service and is still going strong on the trombone.  Two senior citizen life members who still are most active in mind and body are Mr. James Hamilton and Mr. David McKibben.  Each of these still take more than an active interest in all banding around the district.

As a Flute Band and a Silver Band Comber's contesting appearances have been pretty consistent with a measure of success.  In recent years Comber Silver has ventured across the water and competed at Bellevue, Manchester at the Spring Brass Festival.  Although a high proportion of youngsters around Comber are actively playing brass instruments in school bands and at the School of Music, Ballynahinch, the expected spill over to the senior team band is almost non-existent which is rather disappointing and indeed hard to explain.  The present committee however would welcome any who wish to join the band from either of the aforementioned quarters and a welcome is also extended to any former members of the band who should be keen about re-joining the ranks.

I wish the membership of Comber Silver and its present conductor every success for the future and may the name of Comber Silver Band be still as prominent to its townspeople at the turn of the next century as it was in this one."

50 Years of Music ~ and still blowing strong - 1999

50th Anniversary Concert' programme - 29 May 1999

Ronnie O’Prey (Cornet) joined the band in 1945, playing the side drum while the band was still a flute band, using a comparatively rare full set of Boosey and Hawkes Boehm system flutes.  At the change to silver in 1949 he was handed a cornet from a full set of Besson instruments which were bought from Myers and Harrison for £750 and arrived, without cases, in two enormous crates all packed in straw and wrapped up in tissue paper, accompanied by two live rats! The set of flutes was sold to Parkmount in Portadown for £650, so it cost ‘only £100’ (when money was money) to change from flutes to silver.  Over the years he has always played the cornet. and has had only three instruments in the fifty years; the original Besson, a Boosey Imperial and now a Sovereign. Ronnie says that in the earlier days many of the players couldn't play very well; the standard has gone up considerably.  The numbers at times went down, and it took special efforts by a small number of dedicated members to keep it going. Ronnie said at that time ‘there’ll be a band here while I’m alive — even if I have to come down on my own’. He says the band is playing really well now.  ‘Ewan has introduced a new style’.  And the thirty youngsters — he never thought he’s see that. Ronnie still practices every night — as a younger player he practiced every morning early, every lunchtime and every night.  His advice to the junior members in the Laureldale Ensemble is that the more practice they get the more fun they will get out of it — you don't get anything without working. He would also say of playing music ‘if you don’t have a feeling for it, don’t do it’.  Competitions don’t mean a thing to him in the sense of results or places — it’s important just to make the best music you can and enjoy it. A favourite piece of music would be the Overture Nabucco, but, he says, ‘Ewan never plays it!’

John Boyce (Percussion)  John moved from Comber Temperance Flute Band to Comber Silver when he was about 15.  As a side-drummer he became a member of a 4-strong team of side drummers including Billy Mcveigh, Maurice Jellie and James. Galway -‘at that time it was unusual for a brass band to have so many side-drummers.  The bass drummer then was Bobby Steenson.  A couple of years after he joined, the band stopped parading, and though percussion was only required from time to time, he continued to play when needed.  The drum kit (and other percussion) became a more familiar feature after this.

When John joined Comber Silver, the Laureldale Hall was being built and he recalls helping to concrete the front area where the cars park.  The conductor was Roy Morrow and under his baton the Band won the Intermediate section, playing English Folk Songs.

John reckons that 30 years ago nobody would have thought of 25 or 30 juniors and a-senior band of nearly 30.  The band is ‘playing four times better now”, and he is glad to see so many young players:  "for a while it was all electric guitars and keyboards, but through the tuition and opportunities in schools now children are being encouraged to take up instruments."  To them he says "Stick at it, listen to Ewan and take his advice."

Tom Jellie (Bb flat Bass) was handed a cornet at the age of ten or eleven and has since then played the baritone (still his favourite), tenor horn and most recently Bb flat bass. He will also confess to playing the trombone ‘at home’! (You are left to work out how many years he has been in the band).  For a few years he was diverted away from the band by an interest he shares with Ewan and one or two others in the band — motorcycling, and is still an enthusiast.  Tom has wide knowledge and interest in the brass band literature and in all the instruments in the band. He feels the baritone is ‘just right’ for him and has made a number of unsuccessful attempts to escape from the “bottom end’ but these have so far proved fruitless, largely because of the great sound he is capable of making on the Bb flat!

Earlies Festival hits the high notes - 2019

'The Newtownards Chronicle' - 27 June 2019

Comber Silver Band also hit a high note last weekend as they celebrated their 70th anniversary with a musical performance.  The band which originally started as a flute band in 1902 before converting to brass in 1949, were joined by a number of special guests to celebrate their monumental birthday at their 'Music in the Park' event.  They played together in an open air styled concert held at the Lower Crescent in Comber to mark the occasion as well as the Comber Earlies Festival and were joined by a good crowd.

Over 100 musicians participated during the afternoon from Ballygowan Flute Band, Comber Silver Band and The Band of the Royal Irish Regiment with the Pipes and Drums.  The afternoon, which was well attended closed with the massed bands playing Highland Cathedral and Killaloo.  Band members meet weekly to practice for concerts, contests, church services and a range other engagements including Christmas celebrations and Remembrance day services.  The band have also supported numerous local charities with their engagements.

The band is conducted by Wesley Thompson, a well accomplished musician with almost 50 years' experience as a euphonium player, playing mostly with the 1st Old Boys' Band.  Wesley has conducted a number of brass bands but has had most success with Comber Silver Band, where he has been conductor since 2010.  In that time the Band has grown in membership and has had considerable considerable success in 3rd section contests.  In addition, he works with a number of school brass bands and ensembles.  In January 2016, Wesley was appointed as Associate Conductor with Downshire Brass.  The members of Comber Silver Band gave their thanks to Comber Regeneration Partnership for their assistance in preparation for the event.  Mr Smith paid tribute to the organisers.  He said: "We were delighted to support Comber Silver Band in organising this tremendous concert and it was great to see such large crowds to appreciate the music.  "A big thank you to the three bands, the Royal Irish Regiment recruitment display team and Comber Army Cadets for their participation" He added: "Lower Crescent was a great venue and we will be certainly using this space again for future concerts after this success."

More festivities took place over the course of the week, with a variety of Ladies Fringe Festival events occurring in the lead up to the main Comber Earlies Food Festival. The food festival event will take place in Comber Square and St Mary's Church car park this Saturday, June 29. "Having come up with original idea in 2013 I am delighted that the festival goes from strength to strength," Mr Smith said. "This free family event features music, children's entertainment and of course artisan food, all with a Comber potato theme including cookery demonstrations from celebrity chef James Tanner. Fingers crossed for a repeat of last weekend's good weather." He concluded: "The Earlies Fringe Festival is run and managed entirely by volunteers from the community for the community.  I pay tribute to all the members of Comber Regeneration who give up their time to make this festival such a success, thank you."  The festival finishes this Sunday afternoon with a Churches together service in Comber Square at 3.30pm. 

Youth Band Competition Success - 2023

'The Newtownards Chronicle' 16th February 2023