KEN BROWNE

My introduction to Brass Bands was in the late 1950’s  when I attended Ballyholme Brass Band (Bangor) in response to an advert for learners in the local paper.  I was handed a baritone, given basic instruction by a senior member and left to get on with it.

A year or so later, when given a cornet, I was more enthused and practised voluntarily.  In the mid-sixties I was asked to join Newtownards Silver Band (NSB) where I played various instruments, including trombone which I taught myself to play.  My work took me to Ballymena around 1970, and I joined their Silver Band, again moving round various instruments. When playing tenor horn there, I entered and won several local music festivals in the Brass Solo competitions.

Returning to North Down in 1975 I rejoined NSB and had long spells on both tenor and bass trombone (the old G trombone complete with handle). I even managed to play a trombone solo with the Band in public!  For several years in  the late 80’s, I played with Symington and ended up back on tenor horn.

In 1990 I was invited to join Comber on solo horn - a position I held for 30 years until I felt I was no longer playing my best and requested to move down the line. Whilst in Comber in the early 90‘s, I frequently entered the BBL quartets and solo competitions (B Section) where I had some success.  I also concurrently played Solo Horn with Templemore for a number of  years.

For a time I always took my horn on holiday to England and rehearse with Bands in Tyneside, The Peak District and Yorkshire - also the occasional concert.

I always found the Brass Band fraternity a very welcoming bunch. I continue on 1st Horn with Comber.