Bradwell Silver Band will celebrate its 125th anniversary in 2026, and the muisic makers are looking ahead to an exciting new chapter while honouring more than a century of musical heritage.
Founded on 15 January 1901, Bradwell Silver Band is the oldest continuously operating musical group in Milton Keynes, maintaining an unbroken tradition of performance for more than a century.
With such a long history, the band has enjoyed numerous memorable moments, including performing for the In-Pensioners at the Royal Hospital Chelsea and representing the United Kingdom at a British-themed weekend in Belgium as part of an international fireworks competition.
The band’s vibrant development programme offers free tuition and instruments, nurturing emerging talent and supporting musicians at every stage of their musical journey.
Over the years it has helped many players progress to principal and featured positions in respected UK bands and leading music ensembles
The band is perhaps best known locally for its cherished tradition of Christmas morning performances, which start at 6am and bring music to the streets of New Bradwell.
“Bradwell Silver has been part of my whole life, and my involvement is something that makes me very proud," said Musical Director Brian Keech, "I am lucky to follow in the footsteps of previous MDs from our 125 years.”
To mark its special anniversary, Bradwell Silver Band will host a special concert at The Chrysalis Theatre on May 23, featuring guest soloist Jack Wilson.
Jack, a former member of the RAF Central Band and current Soprano Cornet player with the internationally acclaimed G.U.S. Band, began his musical journey with Bradwell Silver Development Band.
The concert will also debut a newly commissioned work, ‘Echoes of St James’,by celebrated composer Alan Fernie, written specially to commemorate the band’s milestone anniversary.
