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A Short History of Croft Silver Band

Croft Silver Band can be traced back to 1902, when it was then known as the Croft Brass and Reed Band. Due to the outbreak of World War One the band was forced to close in 1914.

Eventually in 1918 after the hostilities had ceased, some of the former members decided that they would restart the Band under a new name, this time to be called Croft Brass Band, conducted by Billy Hutchinson. In July 1925 Charles Moore took over the conductors post and for the next several years the Band progressed very well under his leadership.

Charles Moore was also one of the prime movers in the formation of the Leicestershire Junior Band association. In 1931 George Heath A.T.C.L. took over the post of conductor, but alas was forced to close down with the outbreak of the Second World War.

In 1946 and after the war had finished the band restarted and over the next few years the band built up its membership playing at Engagements and giving Concerts. Funds were building up and eventually a new set of instruments was purchased.

In later years Croft Silver Band, has been under the direction of conductors that have not only given their best in terms of both time and effort but have lead the band to contesting success. Sadly two memorable conductors (and dear friends) have passed away, namely David Hughes and Richard S. Warren

Both were keen to teach youngsters, who they recognised are the future of any band. Richard (Dick to his friends), was dedicated to Croft Band, wrote numerous music and had various pieces of his work published. He was very well known amongst the world of Brass Bands. His son Bernard played Principal Cornet and later his Grandson, Louis played Solo Euphonium.

Another successful period was when Graham Sutton took over as Musical Director throughout the 90's. Under his direction the band achieved promotion from the 4th section up to the 2nd section. The band collected prizes along the way and qualified to play at the National Finals twice.

In more recent times the band were led by Ian Needham from 2007 - 2022, leading band with humour as well as striving to get the best from its players! His last engagement with the band was a sell out production of "Brassed Off" with the Kirby Muxloe Players. His motto rains that of the band under its recent new leadership of Henry Dunger - "Onwards and Upwards"