Penzance is a town, civil parish and port in Cornwall – the most westerly major town in Cornwall

 

Unknown formation date.

1838: They appeared to have assembled with a full determination to have regular jollification; the Penzance Band was in attendance and commenced parading through the principal streets. (21 July 1838 – Falmouth Express and Colonial Journal)

1852: Penzance Boys Band / Penzance Juvenile Subscription Band (sax-horn band) formed. A suggestion was put forward to form a boys’ band in Penzance and immediately a request was put out for subscriptions.

1852 September: Within a month Penzance Boys Band was playing at the opening of the Penzance Station along with bands from St Just, St Ives, Helston, Camborne, Towednack, and Truro. (Penzance Gazette 1^st September 1852

“Adolphe Sax produced a set of saxhorns which revolutionised the industry and became the standard for every brass band. What a giant leap forward this must have been. John Distin and his family collaborated with Sax and used his instruments on various tours including a visit to Penzance in 1852, just before the Penzance Boys (sax-horn) Band was formed. Could this have been the first truly brass band in Cornwall?” (John Brush in a presentation for a Gorsedh Kernow Conference)

1853: Penzance Juvenile Band active. (BBHD)

1853: Penzance Juvenile Band played some popular airs before and at the termination of the lecture in a very creditable manner. (19 January 1853 – The Cornish Telegraph)

1853: Penzance Juveniles were accompanied with the Penzance Brass Band and on their return spent a pleasant evening at the Golden Lion Inn. (18 May 1853 – The Cornish Telegraph)

1854: The lecture was preceded and interspersed by music from the Penzance Independent Band, (it should more properly be styled Lathrope’s Band, for Mr Lathrope leads most efficiently with the bugle). (22 February 1854 – The Cornish Telegraph)

1854: Penzance Brass Band led off with Rule Britannia. At intervals throughout the evening they played Partant pour la Syne, Cheer boys cheer. (22 November 1854 – The Cornish Telegraph)

1855: Juvenile Institution. Pensance (sic) Brass Band performed some popular music. (12 January 1855 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1855: The session of this Institution was concluded with entertainment at the Union Hall, Prince’s street, consisting music by the Penzance Amateur Brass Band and scenes and recitations from Shakespeare and other authors members. (4 April 1855 – The Cornish Telegraph)

1855: The music of the Penzance and St Just Bands roused the … (22 August 1855 – The Cornish Telegraph)

1856: Penzance Brass Band. To the Editor of the Cornish Telegraph. Sir, we are about to appeal to the public for their pecuniary support for the Penzance Amateur Band, a body of young men who have been carefully training themselves. (2 April 1856 – The Cornish Telegraph)

1856 – 22^nd July 1856: Penzance and Truro Teetotal Demonstration at Tehidy. Penzance Band, Godolphin Teetotal Band, Camborne Band, Truro Band (Emidy’s) and Redruth Band were in attendance. (Cornish Telegraph 30^th July 1856)

1856 – 29^th July 1856: “The 4^th Gala of the West Cornwall Teetotal Association at Tehidy Park. Two monster trains from Truro and Penzance called at all the intermediate stations which converged into the Portreath line a quarter of a mile to the place. A procession was formed, headed by the Redruth Band followed by other bands from Truro, Penzance, Godolphin and Camborne. (RCG 8^th August 1856)

1857 Penzance Wesleyan Association Sunday School held their annual tea treat on Trencrom Hill. About a hundred members and friends repaired to that wild elevated spot. They came by the West Cornwall Railway to St Erth station and then walked up to the top of the hill. Penzance Band played during the tea and an agreeable afternoon and evening was spent. (RCG 24^th July 1857)

1857: Penzance Amateur Band was engaged for the occasion, and gave great satisfaction in their performances. (23 January 1857 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1857: Penzance Sax-Horn Band was in attendance. Everyone was delighted with the trip; it was a most delightful day. (21 August 1857 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

13th Duke of Cornwall’s Artillery Volunteers / No. 2 Battery Duke of Cornwall’s Royal Garrison Artillery. “Like Falmouth, Penzance had an Artillery unit in situ before the government re-organisation of 1859. Their band was certainly active in 1858. The band strength averaged 19 players. Unlike their Duke of Cornwall’s Rifles counterparts, they did no contesting.” (John Brush)

1858: Arrangements are made to indulge in kind of innocent recreation, and Penzance Sax Horn Band engaged accompany the excursionists. (11 August 1858 – The Cornish Telegraph

1st Admin Battalion Duke of Cornwall’s Rifles / A Company Duke of Cornwall’s Rifles / A Company 1st Volunteer Battalion Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry / A Company 4th Battalion Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry (Territorial Force). “Less than twelve months after the formation of the Volunteers, a full parade inspection was held for all 1st Battalion units, at which the Penzance Duke of Cornwall’s Rifles Band provided the music. It is most likely that this instant band was recruited from the Penzance Sax Horn Band who was in operation right up to 1860. Nothing can be found of any engagements for the Volunteer Band after 1890, perhaps because there had always been an “Independent” town band. The names of three volunteer Bandmasters are known – F May (1860’s), Mr Wigg (1880’s) and a Mr Wolf (1888). Three Cornish contests were attended, achieving a 1st at Penzance and a 2nd at Truro.” (John Brush)

1859: Penzance Fife and Drum Band active. (Cornish Magazine article by Phyllis Colenso 1960s)

Like Falmouth, Penzance had an Artillery unit in place before the government re-organisation of 1859.

1859: The train moved majestically into the station. As the procession was forming the Penzance Amateur Band struck up the welcome strains the Conquering Hero, not inaptly. (4 May 1859 – The Cornish Telegraph)

1859: Opening Of The Cornwall Railway. Headed by the band of the Cornwall Militia and followed by the Mayor and Corporation of Penzance, preceded by their Town Band and banners. (6 May 1859 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1860s: F May, Penzance Volunteer Band MD.

1860: The Penzance Brass Band was in attendance and played at intervals during the evening. (22 January 1860 – The Era, London)

1860: “The 1st Admin Battalion Duke of Cornwall’s Rifles formed and less than twelve months later, a full parade inspection was held for all 1st Battalion units, at which the Penzance Duke of Cornwall’s Rifles Band provided the music. It is most likely that this instant band was recruited from the Penzance Sax Horn Band who was in operation right up to 1860.” (John Brush)

1860: They were accompanied by their Drum and Fife Band, and by the Penzance Brass Band, who have recently joined the Corps as supernumeraries.  (4 May 1860 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1860: Assembled in the Pork Market, to the number of 86, and, under command of Captain Dobree, and preceded by the Penzance Band and the Rifle Drum and Fife Band, they marched four-deep to the Western Green. (29 June 1860 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1860: Lodges in Truro District – Band of Penzance Volunteers, Redruth, St Agnes Band… (18 July 1862 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1860: Having formed fours, the Penzance Band, headed by bandmaster Weaver, took the lead. (3 August 1860 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1860: They then marched, accompanied by the Penzance Rifle Corps (Ist Company) and headed by the St Just Brass Band, to the Commercial Hotel, where a substantial dinner was provided. (3 August 1860 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1860: The Western District Cottagers’ Gardening Society. Penzance Brass Band was in attendance, and greatly enlivened the company with their performances. (14 September 1860 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1860: Penzance Sax-horn band, assisted by other amateurs, gave a concert on Friday evening last. The Band played a selection from their best music. (26 December 1860 – The Cornish Telegraph)

1861: Volunteer Corps. At half-past 10 the Corps assembled in the Green Market, and marched to the music of their Brass Band, round the Townhall, where they entered by the Southwest Door. (11 January 1861 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1861: Music by the Penzance Sax-born Band. At first the dancing was rather tame before 40 Couples engaged in this fascinating exercise. (16 January 1861 – The Cornish Telegraph)

1861: Penzance Band were in attendance, in addition to the Land’s End Artillery Band. (24 July 1861 – The Cornish Telegraph)

1862: Lodges in Truro District. Band of Penzance Volunteers, Redruth, St Agnes Band. (18 July 1862 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1863: Penzance Volunteer Band contesting under F May. (Contest archive)

1863: The President, the Rev. J. Garrett mounted on a white horse, bearing a white wand and accompanied by the Penzance Brass Band, marched through the villages of Mousehole and Newlyn, and back to the village green. (26 June 1863 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1864: Penzance Orchestral Band met for the first time on Friday last, rather more than 20 in number. (6 April 1864 – The Cornish Telegraph)

1866: Afterwards the tram left Truro for Penzance. The Band of the Ist (Penzance) Duke of Cornwall’s Rifles was in attendance at the railway station. (20 October 1866 – Windsor and Eton Express)

1866: Penzance Volunteer Band. A concert in aid of the funds the above Band, will be given, in the Exchange, Wednesday evening, the 19th inst., when the band will be assisted by the Penzance Orchestral Band. (12 December 1866 – The Cornish Telegraph)

1866: The Penzance Band. … the twofold object of having a Volunteer and Town Band, worked under one Instructor and one management, might be readily accomplished by the assistance of contributions from the public. (12 December 1866 – The Cornish Telegraph)

1870: We appeal to visitors at Penzance to suppy themswelves with a few coppers occasionally, in order that they may relieve the Penzance Band; for an entertainment of some sort of music is promised during the summer months, if only sufficient coppers can be obtained.

1877: The weather was very tolerable and thousands of people lined the Esplanade, on which the Penzance Volunteer Band played some good selections. (11 August 1877 – Western Morning News)

1878: Penzance Volunteer Band played Waltzes and Polkas in the Green Market at the Midsummer celebrations. (Cornishman 2^nd July 1878)

1878: The Rhine Penzance Season Band. This celebrated double-handed band (late from Torquay … (23 July 1878 – The Cornish Telegraph)

1879: The Volunteers Church Parade of the 1^st DCRV headed by the 2nd Camborne Band. The whole marched to the station, where the Penzance Band joined its company and brought it back to the armoury. (29 May 1879 – Cornishman)

1881: St Levan. The Band the Penzance Artillery Volunteers played a well-selected programme during the Church Bazaar. (9 June 1881 – Cornishman)

1881: There was numerous attendance or scholars, whose procession was made very gay with the carrying of banners, &c. The Penzance Rifle Corps Band attended and played good selection of music. (30 June 1881 – The Cornish Telegraph)

1881: Penzance Hungarian Band active. (Contest archive)

1882: Penzance Season Band, supported entirely by voluntary contributions. (17 August 1882 – Cornishman)

1882: Penzance Season Band will play during the afternoon. (22 September 1882 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1883: The procession was of great length and comprised the bands of the Penzance Rifle Volunteers and Penzance Artillery Volunteers, the Paul Brass Band and the St Buryan Independent Band. (19 May 1883 – The Cornish Telegraph)

1880s: Mr Wigg, Penzance Volunteer Band MD.

1883 circa: Penzance Independent Brass Band formed.

Item in the Cornishman of 2012 states Penzance Silver formation date of 1890s but this must be incorrect as they were already contesting by this time. It should probably read circa 1883.

1883: Mr Olver, Volunteer Band MD. (John Brush)

Circa 1883-circa 1904: John Andrews Penzance Independent Brass Band MD. (Contest archive / John Brush)

1884: Penzance Independent Brass Band contesting. (Contest archive)

1884: Penzance Town Band, under the direction of Mr W J Hoskins performed during the luncheon. (22 August 1884 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1885: “Penzance Town Council. The Town Band. Mr. W. J. Hosking wrote informing the council that, in consequence of his health, he was about to give up the leadership of the town band, which would be taken by Mr. H. Wolf, the solo clarinet.”(19 February 1885 – Cornishman)

1885: Promenade, accompanied by a band of music, so that the village was quite alive. The St Just Artillery Band headed the Wesleyan School, the St Just Rifle Band the Bible Christians, and the Penzance Season Band the Methodist Free Church School. (29 May 1885 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1885: School treats at Troon at which the Penzance Season Band and the Camborne Volunteer Band were present. (26 June 1885 – Cornubian and Redruth Times)

1885: Everyone is expressing dissatisfaction at the result of the concert given by the Penzance Town Band on Friday, and yet so few attempted to make it success. Of course, I speak only in the pecuniary sense. (24 September 1885 – The Cornish Telegraph)

1885: President of the Blue Ribbon Committee (Mr. Tregollos). The programme was opened by the Penzance Town Band, under the leadership of Mr. Wolffe, who gave an overture from the opera of the Bohemian Girl, which elicited loud applause. (5 November 1885 – The Cornish Telegraph)

1886: On leaving the church again formed a procession, headed by the excellent Brass Band from Penzance, and walked through the chief thoroughfares of the village. (16 July 1886 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1886: Penzance Town Band gave a successful concert at Penzance on Friday. (15 October 1886 – Cornubian and Redruth Times)

1886: Christmas In Cornwall. The only public event on Boxing-day was a concert in the evening at St John’s Hall in aid of the funds of the Penzance Town Band. The band, which plays almost every day throughout the year, is much appreciated by both residents and visitors. (31 December 1886 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1887: Penzance Silver Band formed. (John Brush)

1887: Festivities At Goldsithney were enlivened by selections of music admirably rendered by the Penzance Town Band. The Band of the Marazion battery of the D.C.A.V. … (3 February 1887 – The Cornish Telegraph)

1887: Newlyn’s Jubilee Festivities. Headed by the band of the A Co. D.C.E they marched in procession through the town. Penzance Independent and Town-Bands being also with them. (14 July 1887 – Cornishman)

1887: Penzance Independent Band was in attendance. (21 July 1887 – The Cornish Telegraph)

1887: Penzance Season band was in attendance. (22 July 1887 – Cornubian and Redruth Times)

1887: Having formed in procession, the members, headed by the Penzance Volunteer and Town Band, marched through the town to the grounds. (28 July 1887 – The Cornish Telegraph)

1888: The services of the Penzance Town Band have been secured for the occasion. (6 January 1888 – Cornubian and Redruth Times)

1888: Seven of the leading members of the Penzance Town Band have been retained to play the music in connection with the opera, and will be under the conductorship of Mr. D’Oyley Carte’s … (7 January 1888 – Lake’s Falmouth Packet and Cornwall Advertiser)

1888: H.M.S. Pinafore at Truro. … the public appreciated the talent of the company and the services of the Penzance Town Band and the remainder of the orchestra was also distinctly demonstrated. (20 January 1888 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1888: Mr Wolf, Penzance Volunteer Band MD. (John Brush)

1888: William Nankervis, 13th Duke of Cornwall’s Artillery Volunteers Band MD. (John Brush)

1888: Penzance Regatta And Harbour Sports. The musical programme was undertaken by the Penzance Independent Brass Band, who, as usual, pleasingly acquitted themselves of the duty, to the delight of the assembled crowds. (13 September 1888 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

During this period the 13th Duke of Cornwall’s Artillery Volunteers Band strength averaged 19 players. (John Brush)

Unlike their Duke of Cornwall’s Rifles counterparts, 13th Duke of Cornwall’s Artillery Volunteers Band did not attend contests. (John Brush)

1889: The B Company (Camborne) Volunteer and Penzance Town Bands were in attendance throughout the day and rendered choice selections of music. (27 June 1889 – The Cornish Telegraph)

1889: Penzance Independent Brass Band played selections of music during the afternoon. (29 August 1889 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

Three Cornish contests were attended by Penzance Volunteer Band achieving a 1^st at Penzance and a 2^nd at Truro. (John Brush)

1890: No engagements found for Penzance Volunteer Band after 1890, perhaps because there had always been a Penzance Volunteer Independent Town Band. (John Brush)

1890: Volunteers, under Mr A Blight; the Stenalees Brass Band, under Mr J Richards; the Illogan Reed and Brass Band, under the Rev Harry Oxland; the Black Rock Band, under Mr John Cory; the Penzance Independent Band, under Mr John Andrews. (7 August 1890 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1890: A selection of music was played during the afternoon by the Penzance Town Band, under Bandmaster Woolf. (7 August 1890 – The Cornish Telegraph)

1891: Most people belonging to the towns west of Truro are aware that the Penzance Town-Band owes much of its success to W. J. Hosking, who has been connected with it from its formation. (8 October 1891 – Cornishman)

1891: Met at the entrance of the mine by the Penzance Season Band. The ponderous machinery moved and the water was lifted to the surface, accompanied with musical strains from the band. (West Briton 29^th October 1891)

1892: St Just Sunday school have given invitations to the band of D.C.A.V. and the Church Brass Band to accompany them. The Methodist Free Church folk have engaged the Penzance Season Band for their festival. (26 May 1892 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1892: Penzance Swimming Association. A band-stand had been erected. Penzance Town-Band, who had laid in extra stock of breath and dinner so that the supply of soulful music would not short. (11 August 1892 – Cornishman)

1892: Penzance Town Band, under Herr Wolf – tripping feet kept time through 10 waltzes. (25 August 1892 – Cornishman)

1893: Mr. Henry Woolf, who has been the bandmaster of the Penzance Town Band for the past nine years, died suddenly on Thursday morning from heart disease at the age of 44. (11 May 1893 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1893: Marriage of the Duke of York. Market Jew-street to the field. The National Anthem was played by the Penzance Town Band. (13 July 1893 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1893: Porthleven, when the Bible-Christians held their school-tea and engaged the Penzance Season and Helston Volunteer Bands. (6 July 1893 – Cornishman)

1893: Rechabite Fete at Truro. A procession was formed, headed by the Penzance Independent Band, and also accompanied by the Illogan Reed and Brass Band, under the Rev. Harry Oxland. (10 August 1893 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1894: “Penzance. To canvass for subscriptions and procure a bandmaster and other aid for the existing Town and Volunteer Band. The Mayor would like the Town-band committee to become Town-improvement committee. (24 May 1894 – Cornishman)

1894: Penzance. Wanted, Conductor. (31 May 1894 – Cornishman)

1894: Band dispute at Penzance – probability of professionals being wanted soon. (7 June 1894 – Cornishman)

1894: Penzance Town Band. Several bandmasters have replied to the advertisement of the Penzance Band-committee; and the canvassers have gained a number of new subscribers to band-funds. (7 June 1894 – Cornishman)

1894: Penzance Town Band. Sir, Will you kindly grant me a little space to state, for the information of the public, that, in of the Penzance Town Band the sole right of election and dismissal of members of the Band, and the control times and of places of play and of practice, of all engagements and of Band business generally are vested in the Town Band-committee. (14 June 1894 – Cornishman)

1894: Completion of Newlyn Harbour Scheme. Formally declaring the completion of the whole work, Mr. T. B. Bolitho was met just outside Newlyn by the Penzance Town Band, and several of the Newlyn Harbour Commissioners and others, and accompanied by a large number of people to the pier. (5 July 1894 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1894: In connection with the stone-laying. Music was supplied by the Penzance Town Band and the brass bands of Paul and Drift. (5 July 1894 – The Cornish Telegraph)

1895: Penzance Artillery Brass Band active. (John Brush)

1895: Contesting as Penzance Silver – perhaps the names are interchangeable. (Contest archive)

1895: In many towns the Town Band is supported or subsidised out of the public funds, but unfortunately in Penzance the Council could not see their way to help them. (4 July 1895 – The Cornish Telegraph)

1895: Penzance Town Council. Recreation Ground. The Mayor said he had received a letter from Mr. P. Westfield, bandmaster of the Penzance Town Band, asking for permission for the Town Band to give sacred concerts at the gardens on Sunday evenings from 8 p.m. (4 July 1895 – Cornishman)

1896: “THE PENZANCE INDEPENDENT BRASS BAND. A short history of this band will be interesting to many of our readers. Its success is widely known. That success is the more creditable since was formed when the conductor, Mr. John Andrews, of Penzance, was his teens. He has been at its head ever since. the year 1887 (Jubilee year) this band, which was till then the Rifle volunteer band, severed its connection with that Company and formed itself into an Independent Band. Since its formation it has won more Ist and 2nd prizes than any other in Cornwall. The first contest the band attended was at Falmouth the August Bank-holiday of 1888, when met seven other bands. Here the Penzance musicians won the first prize with only eleven members; Falmouth Volunteer band second with or 24 members:) Penryn Volunteer band third; Helston Volunteer band fourth. Since this contest they have attended 10 others, having met and defeated some of the best bands in Cornwall, such as Illogan, Camborne, and others. The band contest worthy of the most note was held Tehidy park, Camborne, the 1892 August Bank-holiday when the best bands in the county met for competition. This was the only time that Penzance, Camborne, and Illogan bands met together. Stenalees band also entered. This was looked forward to as a big affair. The contest was very close, and the result was Penzance won first; Illogan second ; Camborne third ; Stenalees fourth. The past year or so contests have not been so well attended, evidently bands being afraid of one another. Still we are glad to say that the Penzance Independent band has attended nearly all of them, and has had its labours handsomely rewarded. One thing the band can claim – they have beaten every band they have played against, some time or other. Though beaten sometimes they have always been victorious over their conquerors some time. The band ought to receive good support from our district. It is ever ready to give its services gratis for any charitable object. The band is not only known locally but in most musical places in our country. No doubt attending band-contests is a good means to bring a band into prominence, and, had it not been for these, the Independents would, perhaps, not enjoy the reputation they have to-day. The band has also behaved well, and has taken its defeats with the same good grace as victories and in the excellent spirit of try-again. Some people imagine that the reason the band has won so many prizes is because it has played under the same judge on many occasions. This is not so. As a matter of fact out of the eleven prizes the band has won it has played under eight different umpires. This shows that there could not have been favouritism. We have it from good authority that the band will retire from the contest-field for a season or two, and give more time to the supply of music locally. This will, no doubt, induce other bands to enter contests during that time. The Independents are working men, who only devote their spare time to music, but the manner that music is rendered has taken many visitors to the town by agreeable surprise. The band is about to start a list of annual subscribers, and in return intend to visit such subscribers periodically and render suitable programmes of music. We trust that native talent and years of study and practice will meet the support they deserve. (20 February 1896 – Cornishman)

A painting of Penzance Silver Band members – Christmas Eve 1897 (Ian King)

November 1897: Penzance One and All Band formed by R R Cooper, Andrew Berryman, Nicholas Nicholas, Henry Langworthy and Harry Angwin MD. (John Brush)

1897 – 8^th June: Camborne Children’s Day was clearly a huge event as it involved the Wesley and Centenary Wesley Chapels, the Church, the Primitive Methodists, the Bible Christians, the New Connexion, the Salvation Army and the Wesley schools of Beacon and Pengegon and Tuckingmill Church and Wesley Schools. The bands leading the various groups were Camborne Town Band, Helston Band, Porthleven Band, Troon Band, St Erth Band, Illogan Reed and Brass Band and Penzance Salvation Army Band

1897: Camborne Band, proceeded to Trevu. Of the other schools, the Church were headed by Helston Band, the Primitive Methodist by Porthleven Band, the Bible Christian by Troon Band, the New Connexion by St Erth Band, the Salvation Army by Penzance Salvation Army Band. (10 June 1897 – West Briton and Cornwall Advertiser)

1897: Salvation Army – Penzance corps. Immediately afterwards the procession was formed, and headed by the Penzance Salvation Army Silver Band and the Hayle Independent Band. (16 September 1897 – Cornishman)

1898: The general complaint of visitors was that there was a lack of amusement. Penzance there was a Town Band supported by the tradesmen and others, whilst Falmouth only had some itinerant musicians. There was also much need of shelters …” (23 April 1898 – Lake’s Falmouth Packet and Cornwall Advertiser)

1899: Penzance One and All Band active. (John Brush)

1899: The Penzance independent Brass Band, under the conductorship of Mr J Andrew, discoursed selections music intervals. (6 April 1899 – Cornishman)

1899: The School left the schoolroom at 2 p.m. and promenaded the principal streets, headed by the Camborne Town and Penzance Season Bands. (21 July 1899 – Cornubian and Redruth Times)

1899: Penzance Town Band. To The Editor of the “Cornish Telegraph.” Sir, Can you spare me a small space in your widely circulated paper to contradict certain rumours which have been spread. The first is that the Penzance Town and Season Band has broken up … (3 August 1899 – The Cornish Telegraph)

1899: Annual tea-treat of Redruth was held on Thursday at Penventon, kindly lent by Mr A. Carkeek. Penzance Town and Season Band was in attendance. (4 August 1899 – Cornubian and Redruth Times)

1899: Penzance Town Band relieved the monotony caused by waiting. (1 December 1899 – Cornubian and Redruth Times)

1900: The Town Band! What can be said of it? A great deal as to its improved condition. It is pleasant to listen to, augmented as has recently been by a couple of good musicians. None us would like to think what Penzance would be without its Town Band. (10 May 1900 – Cornishman)

1900: Penzance Town Council. General Purposes. The Mayor read the following report of The Town Band and its Uniform. The Question of Subsidising the Band. The committee considered the letter from Mr. A Roberts, band-master of the Town-Band, asking the council for a subscription to help the band … (17 May 1900 – Cornishman)

1901: Penzance Town Council. The Town Band. Councillor Poole said last season the general purposes committee were asked to obtain certain particulars reference to providing a Town Band. (18 April 1901 – Cornishman)

1901: The Question of a Town Band for Penzance. At Wednesday’s council meeting the Mayor read the following report of the general-purposes committee. Stronger Band. The committee recommends that the town-clerk be instructed to advertise for a band of 13 performers. (2 May 1901 – Cornishman)

1901: At the railway station shortly after eleven o’clock by Captain Nicholas and the members of the Penzance Brigade, while the Town Band rendered lively selections. (24 May 1901 – Cornubian and Redruth Times)

Penzance One and All Band possibly disbanded.

1903: St Ives Volunteer Artillery and Penzance Independent Brass Bands, marched to the St. Ives Football Ground. (19 February 1903 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1903: Headed by the Penzance Town Band, paraded the place from Bathis Gate to Headman’s Point, afterwards returning to a field at Edgcumbe. (4 July 1903 – Lake’s Falmouth Packet and Cornwall Advertiser)

1903: Penzance Town Band, marched through the village to the top of the hill. (25 July 1903 – Lake’s Falmouth Packet and Cornwall Advertiser)

1905: Penzance Brass Band re-formed or possibly just a name change.

1905: James Maddern, Penzance Brass Band MD. (BBHD / John Brush)

1905: Headed by the Penzance Independent Brass Band, the members marched to Blue Anchor and Columb-Road, returning to the Queens Pit. (3 August 1905 – Royal Cornwall Gazette)

1907: Penzance Independent Band, under the able direction Mr John Andrew, and Falmouth Band, were in attendance. (11 July 1907 – Cornishman)

The caption states: “Penzance Military Band just before WW1” but it may be earlier as the above entry states that it ceased to exist in 1909

1909: Penzance Town Band. Sir, The Penzance Military Band ceased to exist on Saturday, but on Monday sprang into existence the Town Band, formed by the members remaining. (21 October 1909 – Cornishman)

1910: The services of the Penzance Town Band were engaged, and the Wesley School headed the procession. (19 May 1910 – Cornubian and Redruth Times)

1910: Penzance Salvation Army Band active.

Penzance Salvation Army Band with General Booth circa 1910 (Photo: unknown)

Penzance Town Band date unknown (Photo: unknown)

1911: Empire Day at Penzance. The music was supplied alternately by the Independent and Penzance Town Bands. (21 September 1911 – Cornishman)

1912: A procession of about three hundred members paraded the district to the strains of Penzance Salvation Army and Tredavoe Brass Bands. (30 May 1912 – West Briton and Cornwall Advertiser)

1913: Townshend. Immediately afterwards the procession was formed, and headed by the Penzance Salvation Army Silver Band and the Hayle Independent Band. (10 July 1913 – Cornishman)

Possibly Penzance Band in 1913 processing up Causeway Head, just before the Old Cattle Market, and maybe heading towards the Anglican Church

(Photo: courtesy of Paul Phillips of Helston)

1913: “Lelant Band Contest. Sir, may I ask for a little space to express delight at the excellent playing of the various bands the County Band Contest Saturday, and at the same time to say how sorry I was to see that no band from Penzance or district was competing. Time was when the Penzance Independent Brass Band, under the able conductorship Mr. John Andrew, were always competitors at these festivals, and frequently won first. We have excellent local brass players, the best of whom, I believe, are members of the Orchestral society, for whose existence we must all feel grateful. Rumour has it that another brass band is shortly to be formed in Penzance. Let us hope that it is so, and that both the new band and the Independent Band will figure next year in the competitions. At all events, if not in the first, in the second section. Yours faithfully, “KNELLER HALL.” (4 September 1913 – The Cornish Telegraph / Cornishman)

1914: Sancreed Rechabites. Selections of music were discoursed by the Penzance Salvation Army Silver Band, under the baton of Bandmaster J. Andrew. (14 May 1914 – The Cornish Telegraph)

1915: Troops At Penzance. The Mayor and Mayoress (Ald. and Mrs. Geo. Poole) were on the platform to witness the troops’ arrival, and the Penzance Town Band played military airs on the platform and also headed the men as they marched to the barracks. (28 January 1915 – Cornishman)

1915: Troops Leave Penzance for another part of the country. The troops were played from their camp to the station by the Town Band, which the Soldiers’ Entertainment Committee had engaged. (17 May 1915 – West Briton and Cornwall Advertiser)

1915: Penzance Band. At a meeting of Penzance Town Council, on Wednesday, the conductor of the Town Band (Mr. W. J. Hosking) wrote that it was impossible to get men to replace those who had left the band. (16 December 1915 – West Briton and Cornwall Advertiser)

1916: Penzance Brass Band disbanded. (BBHD)

????: Penzance Congregational Brass Band formed. (John Brush)

James Dawson, Penzance Congregational Brass Band MD. (John Brush)

1918: Newlyn. Penzance Independent Band… (24 July 1918 – Cornishman)

1920: Wesleyan chapel, St. Just, the occasion being the visit of the Penzance Salvation Army Silver Band. (25 February 1920 – Cornishman)

1921: Paul Feast. The singing was led by the Corps Brass Band, under bandmaster W. J. Eddy. On Monday the fine Silver Band of the Penzance Corps visited Mousehole, and the selections discoursed at open-air demonstrations and in the hall. (12 October 1921 – Cornishman)

Penzance Independent Brass Band probably early 1920s (Photo: unknown)

1923: St Just Corps of the Salvation Army. The popular Salvation Army Silver Band, from Penzance, were present. (27 June 1923 – Cornishman)

1923: Penzance Salvation Army Silver Band, the principal streets and thence to the delightful grounds of Trewidden.  (8 August 1923 – Cornishman)

1924: Contesting as Penzance Independent under Norman Trudgeon. (Contest archive)

1925: Wanted, Conductor for Independent Silver Band. Apply stating terms to the Secretary, 16, Morrab Place, Penzance. (25^th February, 4, 11, 25^th March, 1, 8 April 1925 – Cornishman)

1925: Under the conductorship of Mr. Donald Firth, Penzance Independent Silver Band rendered a programme of in the Morrab Gardens on Sunday afternoon. These concerts will be given Sunday afternoons till further notice. (29 April 1925 – Cornishman)

1925: Trade Congress Agricultural Workers’ Campaign. A Demonstration of Agricultural Workers will Be held in The Pig Market, Penzance, on Saturday. Demonstration will assemble at the Station at 5.30 p.m., and will proceed to place of meeting led by the Penzance Independent Silver Band, and the Banners of the N.U.R. and Worker’s Union. All Trade Unionists are invited to join the procession. (3 June 1925 – Cornishman)

1926: Independent Band Concert was given to raise funds … new bandmaster. (20 January 1926 – Cornishman)

1926: Penzance Independent Band Concert. On Friday night the Penzance Independent Silver Band gave their second and last concert for the winter season. Their effort was well supported by the public, and the audience about six hundred persons, evidently appreciated. (17 February 1926 – Cornishman)

Penzance Independent Band 1926 (Photo: Opie Penzance)

Winners of Cornwall Amateur Championship Section B

1926: During the Easter holiday, the Penzance Independent Silver Band delighted many hundreds of music-lovers with finely-tendered programmes. On Friday evening, the band made its first appearance on the Promenade bandstand. (7 April 1926 – Cornishman)

1926: Penzance Town Council. A request from the Penzance Independent Silver Band for permission to hold a dance on the promenade was referred to the Pleasure Grounds Committee with power to act. (14 April 1926 – Cornishman)

1926: Regatta And Carnival. During the progress of the regatta a very fine programme of music was given by the Penzance Independent Silver Band, conducted by Mr. G. W. Cave, late of Newquay and principal North of England Bands. (11 August 1926 – Cornishman)

1926: Geo. Wm. Cave, Conductor, Penzance Independent Silver Band. (25 August 1926 – Cornishman)

1926: Penzance And District Boy Scouts while the Independent Silver Band provided music. (10 November 1926 – Cornishman)

1926/27: Penzance Independent contesting under George Cave. (Contest archive)

1926: Penzance Independent possibly participated at the National Brass Band Championships of GB at Crystal Palace.

1927: Band Concert At St. John’s Hall. There was an attendance about five hundred in St. John’s Hall, Saturday evening, when the Penzance Independent Silver Band gave the second of their of popular winter concerts. The programme on this occasion was an exceedingly interesting one. (12 January 1927 – Cornishman)

1927: Mr. G. W. Cave, bandmaster of Penzance Independent Band, has been selected to adjudicate at a band contest London, on April 9th. (26 January 1927 – Cornishman)

1927: Gulval Church had a musical treat Sunday afternoon when they were favoured with a visit of the Penzance Independent Silver Band, who gave a splendid concert under the able conductorship of Mr. W. Cave. (9 March 1927 – Cornishman)

1927: Social and dance held under the auspices of the Penzance Independent Silver Band. (23 March 1927 – Cornishman)

1927: Penwith Agricultural Show. Penzance Independent Silver Band were early the scene, and livened matters considerably, with an interesting programme of music. (25 May 1927 – Cornishman)

1927: Goldsithney. Procession headed by the Penzance Independent Silver Band, conducted by Mr. G. W. Gave, who were in attendance throughout the afternoon and evening. (16 June 1927 – Cornishman)

1927: Penzance Independent placed 8^th in the Junior Shield B (sixth tier) of the National Brass Band Championships of GB at Crystal Palace under George Cave playing Cosi Fan Tutte by Mozart..

1927: Penzance Independent Band, although they did not come within the coveted first three in their class at the Crystal Palace Band contest Saturday last, very gratifying position for an initial venture. Out of class of 24 bands, the Penzance musicians took eighth. (5 October 1927 – Cornishman)

1928 to 1932 circa: J Probert, MD. (Contest archive)

1928: Penwith Agricultural Society. During the day an excellent programme of music was given by the Penzance Independent Silver Band. (24 May 1928 – Cornishman)

1928: Unionist Fete At Trereife. Penzance Independent Silver Band will play during the afternoon and evening. (19 July 1928 – Cornishman)

1928: Liberal Fete At Penzance. Penzance Independent Silver Band were present. (9 August 1928 – Cornishman)

1928: Penzance Swimming Matches. The Independent Silver Band were in attendance throughout. (6 September 1928 – Cornishman)

1928: Buffaloes At Penzance. The parade assembled at the Star Hotel, the headquarters of the First and Last Lodge, and, headed by Penzance Independent Silver Band, marched to the Bethel Chapel, where a service was conducted by Miss Holmes. (13 September 1928 – Cornishman)

1928: Mayor’s Sunday At Penzance. Headed by Penzance Independent Silver Band, under Bandmaster J. Probert, the procession marched through Alverton and Market Jew-street to St. John’s Church. (13 September 1928 – Cornishman)

1928: Garden Fete At Trewidden. Dance music was supplied by the Penzance Independent Silver Band. Newlyn Male Voice Choir, under the direction Mr. J. I. Thomas, also rendered selections during the afternoon. (20 September 1928 – Cornishman)

1929: Penzance Independent participated in the Junior Shield A of the National Brass Band Championships of GB at Crystal Palace under J Probert.

1929: Liberal Association Annual Fete at Nancealverne Grounds. Penzance Independent Silver Band. (18 July 1929 – Cornishman)

1929: Cornish Bands for the Crystal Palace. Among the Cornish bands who will take part in the band contest at the Crystal Palace next Saturday are St Dennis, Stenalees, Falmouth (who won prizes there last year), St Austell, and Penzance. (26 September 1929 – Cornishman)

1929: Crystal Palace Band Festival. Falmouth Band wins prize. Penzance Band experiences. No fewer than 117 bands entered for the annual contest in connection with the great national band festival at the Crystal Palace London, Saturday. (3 October 1929 – Cornishman)

28th September 1929: Penzance Independent participated in the Junior Shield A (fifth tier) of the 24th Great National Band Contest at Crystal Palace under J Probert playing Romantique by Schumann.

1930: Penwith Agricultural Show. Penzance Independent Silver Band under Mr. J. Probert were in attendance. (29 May 1930 – Cornishman)

1930: Festival – splendid programme of music by Penzance Independent Silver Prize Band, under the conductorship of Mr. W. J. Probert. (24 July 1930 – Cornishman)

1930: Festival at Fraddam. The procession was led by Penzance Independent Prize Silver Band under the conductorship of Mr. J. Probert. (31 July 1930 – Cornishman)

1930: Unionist Fete At Penrose – programmes of music by Penzance Independent Silver Band. (31 July 1930 – Cornishman)

1930: Penzance Independent Band, conducted by Mr. J. Probert. (14 August 1930 – Cornishman)

1930: Remembrance Sunday at Penzance. The long procession, headed by Penzance Independent Silver Band, marched down Chapel Street to the memorial. (13 November 1930 – Cornishman)

Penzance Independent Silver Band 1930 (Photo: unknown)

Thought to be Penzance Silver Band (Photo: courtesy St Ives Museum)

1930: Mayor’s Sunday At Penzance. Penzance Independent Silver Band (under Mr. J. Probert) headed a large procession. (20 November 1930 – Cornishman)

1931: Rugby – Independent Silver Band rendered selections before the kick-off. (19 March 1931 – Cornishman)

1931: During the afternoon the Penzance Independent Silver Prize Band would render selections. (28 May 1931 – Cornishman)

1931: Penzance Independent Silver Band. Appeal For Contest Fund. (18 June 1931 – Cornishman)

1931: Civic Sunday At Penzance. The procession was headed by Penzance Independent Silver Band under Mr J. Probert. (16 July 1931 – Cornishman)

1931: Annual Sunday-school festival. Penzance Independent Prize Silver Band under the conductorship of Mr. W. J. Probert. (23 July 1931 – Cornishman)

1931: Unionist Fete At Penzance. Excellent music was rendered by the Penzance Independent Silver Band. (30 July 1931 – Cornishman)

1931: Penzance Athletic Sports. elections were rendered by Penzance Independent Silver Band, under Mr. J. Probert, …” (6 August 1931 – Cornishman)

1931: Please allow me as a visitor to Penzance last week, a space in the columns of your paper to congratulate the Penzance Silver Band and its bandmaster, Mr. J. Probert (old Barry conductor with wide experience of music). He is a very competent bandmaster. (27 August 1931 – Cornishman)

1931: Penzance Carnival. Penzance Independent Silver Band, started to wend its way through the densely populated streets. (27 August 1931 – Cornishman)

1931: St. Mary’s, Penzance. Penzance Independent Silver Band played selections. (3 September 1931 – Cornishman)

1931: The Late Mr. A. Nicholls. He was a man well-liked and respected among his fellows. At one time the conductor of Penzance Independent Silver Band, who were present in practically full force and carried the many wreaths from the house to the graveside. (12 November 1931 – Cornishman)

1931: Mayor’s Sunday At Penzance. The long procession was headed by Penzance Independent Silver Band under the conductorship of Mr. J. Probert. (3 December 1931 – Cornishman)

1931: After a lengthy discussion it was decided by a large majority that in future the band will be known by the name of “Penzance Silver Band,” being felt that its existence depends almost entirely on the generosity of the town council. (10 December 1931 – Cornishman)

1931: During the day the Hospital was kindly visited by Penzance Silver Band and the Salvation Army Band, who played carols in the wards. (31 December 1931 – Cornishman)

1932: The annual social of the Penzance Silver Band (formerly Penzance Independent Band), was held in the Kinnaird Hall, Chapel Street, on Monday evening, when about 130 members, subscribers and supporters were present. (11 February 1932 – Cornishman)

1932: Rugby Football. Penzance Silver Band, under the conductorship of Mr. Probert, rendered selections before the kick-off. (3 March 1932 – Cornishman)

1932: The Spirit of Comradeship. This cup was accepted by the Mayor on behalf of Penzance Silver Band. They had had the untiring support of the Penzance Silver Band. There had never been an occasion when the band had let them down. (24 March 1932 – Cornishman)

1932: Penzance Town Council. The Pleasure Grounds Committee reported, regarding Penzance Silver Band, that a deputation had met the committee, and discussed the question of band performances during the summer season.  (14 April 1932 – Cornishman)

1932: Serious Accident At Newlyn. Mr. Guy had recovered consciousness and was making good progress. Mr. Guy is a member of Penzance Silver Band. (21 April 1932 – Cornishman)

1932: Detachment of the D.C.L.I. (T.A.), Penzance Silver Band, Marazion Town Band, Ludgvan Branch of the British Legion, Towednack and Nancledra Band, visiting branches of the British Legion, and Boy Scouts, in this order of procession. (26 May 1932 – Cornishman)

1932: Penzance Silver Band (under the conductor ship of Mr. J. Probert) has had a very creditable list of successes at the numerous band contests in which it has entered. (26 May 1932 – Cornishman)

1932: Penzance Corporation At Church. The procession, was led by the Head Constable (Mr. Kenyon) and Penzance Silver Band. (2 June 1932 – Cornishman)

1932: Penzance Silver Band gave a concert on Friday in Gardens, Hayle. (2 June 1932 – Cornishman)

1932: Annual Sunday school festival. After a parade, headed by Penzance Silver Prize Band, the children were provided with buns and tea. (9 June 1932 – Cornishman)

1932: Penzance Rechabites’ Parade wended its way through the main streets of Penzance, headed by Penzance Silver Band. (16 June 1932 – Cornishman)

1932: Relubbus. A procession, headed by the superintendents Mrs. A. J. Crebo and Mr. Charles Allen and Penzance Silver Band, marched up and down the village Relubbus Lane, and returned to the chapel, where buns and tea were served to the scholars. (30 June 1932 – Cornishman)

1932: The Methodists of Leedstown held their annual Sunday-school festival – Penzance Silver Prize Band. (14 July 1932 – Cornishman)

1932: Cornish Freemasons At Penzance – probably the first occasion on which had heard the quaint strains of the Freemasons’ March, with its waltz-like lilt. Penzance Silver Band (under Mr. J. Probert) provided the music and played with rhythm that must have stirred the patriotic feelings of the brethren. (28 July 1932 – Cornishman)

1932: Penzance Carnival Week. Two concerts in Morrab Gardens by Penzance Silver Band, assisted by Newlyn Prize Male Voice Choir. (4 August 1932 – Cornishman)

1932: Bank Holiday In West Cornwall. Awimming sports in the floating dock, arranged by the Penzance Swimming Association, drew a big crowd, as did the Penzance Silver Band on the Promenade. (4 August 1932 – Cornishman)

1932: Penzance Carnival Week. Concerts in the Morrab Gardens on Sunday afternoon and evening. Penzance Silver Band, under the conductorship of Mr. J. Probert.  (25 August 1932 – Cornishman)

1932: Penzance Swimming Association. The contest at Bugle undoubtedly accounted for the absence of the Penzance Silver Band. Selections were rendered by Taylor’s Garage wireless apparatus. (25 August 1932 – Cornishman)

1932: Penzance Friendly Societies. Headed by Penzance Silver Band, the Societies paraded through the town. (8 September 1932 – Cornishman)

1932: Morrab Gardens, Penzance. Two concerts by Penzance Silver Band, under the conductorship of Mr. J. Probert. (8 September 1932 – Cornishman)

1932: Penzance Silver Band congratulated on the excellent programmes for Sunday nights during the summer season. (15 September 1932 – Cornishman)

1932: Morrab Gardens. Two highly appreciated concerts were given by Penzance Silver Prize Band, under the conductorship of the bandmaster, Mr, J. Probert, and were well attended. (22 September 1932 – Cornishman)

1932: Great Methodist Gathering. Headed by Penzance Silver Band, a procession started from High-street, Church, and marched down Causeway head. (29 September 1932 – Cornishman)

1932: Mayor’s Church Parade. The procession was led by the Head Constable (Mr. H. Kenyon), and the Penzance Silver Band (under Mr. J. Probert). (29 September 1932 – Cornishman)

1932: Hope For Greater Union. The singing was led by Penzance Silver Band. (29 September 1932 – Cornishman)

1932: Mr. G. W. Cave, Bandmaster of Truro City Band, a former bandmaster of the Penzance Silver Band, was one of the adjudicators at the great Crystal Palace Band Contest. This was the fourth time that he has officiated. (6 October 1932 – Cornishman)

1932: Remembrance Sunday at Penzance. Penzance Silver Band under the conductorship of Mr. J. Probert. (17 November 1932 – Cornishman)

1932: Mayor’s Sunday At Penzance. The Procession was headed by Penzance Silver Band under Mr. J. Probert. (1 December 1932 – Cornishman)

1932: Madron British Legion. Penzance Branch of the British Legion marched to Madron to the strains of Penzance Silver Band. The parade assembled outside the church, where a large crowd had gathered. (1 December 1932 – Cornishman)

1933: Penzance Corporation. The civic procession was headed by Penzance Silver Band. (9 March 1933 – Cornishman)

1933: Penzance British Legion. The “Last Post” and “Reveille” were sounded by Mr. E. Thomas of Penzance Silver Band. (6 April 1933 – Cornishman)

1933: The Pleasure Grounds Committee of Penzance Town Council on Wednesday, stated that the committee had received a letter from Penzance Silver Band thanking the Council for a grant of £120, plus £50 towards the cost of new uniforms. (18 May 1933 – Cornishman)

1933: British Legion Parade At Penzance. The Legion marched to the Cricket Field via Morrab-road, Clarence-street, and St. Clare-street, and were headed by Penzance Silver Band. Other bands taking part were Paul, Pendeen, St Just Boys, Marazion. Madron branch Brass and Bugle Bands. (25 May 1933 – Cornishman)

1933: Empire Day At Penzance. When everything was ready, Penzance Silver Band who looked very business-like in their new uniform, started a military number, and marched out of the gates and up Alverton. (25 May 1933 – Cornishman)

1933: St. Anthony Gardens. Transforming The Island Site. The Mayor unveiled a mural tablet. Before and after the ceremony, selections were rendered by Penzance Silver Band. (1 June 1933 – Cornishman)

1933: Empire Day At Penzance. When the inner man had been satisfied there was community singing accompanied by the Penzance Silver Band. (1 June 1933 – Cornishman)

1933: Well-Known Cornet Soloist At Penzance. The concert given by Penzance Silver Band in the Morrab Gardens, Penzance, on Sunday night, attracted a large number of people, who thoroughly enjoyed the programme. Despite the fact that one of their soloists was absent through indisposition, the band delighted the audience. Mr. J. Probert is to be congratulated on his excellent training of the band. A feature of the evening was the excellent playing of Mr. Clifton Jones, the bandmaster of the famous Irwell Springs Band, Lancashire. Mr. Jones has won over one hundred prizes as a cornet soloist, and his solos on Sunday night were vigorously encored. The programme was as follows: Hymn tune, “St. Agnes”; march. “The Griffin”; Scotch patrol, “Wee MacGregor”; cornet, solo, “Starlight” (Mr. C. Jones); encored, “I hear you calling me”; march, “Punchinello”; selection. “Bitter Sweet”; cornet solo, “Hailstorm”; encore. “The sunshine of your smile”; march, “Sons of the brave”; hymn tune, “Colne.” (6 July 1933 – Cornishman)

1933: Visit of H.M.S. Renown. Returning the compliment, Penzance Silver Band will give a concert board H.M.S. Renown. (13 July 1933 – Cornishman)

1933: Royal Mount’s Bay Regatta. Penzance Silver Band will play selections of music on the Promenade. (13 July 1933 – Cornishman)

1933: H.M.S. Renown’s visit to Penzance. I would take this opportunity to record our thanks due to the Marazion Apollo Male Voice Choir, the Penzance Silver Band, and the Marazion Band who came on board and provided us with some excellent music. (20 July 1933 – Cornishman)

1933: Penzance Carnival Week. A dance on the Promenade with music by the Penzance Silver Band. (31 August 1933 – Cornishman)

1933: The committee of the Penzance Silver Band have appointed Mr. Thomas Proctor, of Manchester, to the position of teacher and conductor of the band. Mr. Proctor is well-known in the brass band world. (16 November 1933 – Cornishman)

1933: Penzance Town Council. Penzance Silver Band wrote expressing sincere thanks to the Council for the many privileges extended to them during the season. (16 November 1933 – Cornishman)

1933: Remembrance Sunday. Penzance Silver Band, and the band of Penzance Salvation Army Corps (under Adjutant W. Powell), played the anthem O rest the Lord (Mendelssohn). (16 November 1933 – Cornishman)

1934: Christmas At Penzance Hospital. The patients had the privilege of inviting their friends to tea. The Penzance Silver Band and Penzance Salvation Army Band again remembered the hospital and played selections. (4 January 1934 – Cornishman)

1934: Penzance Independent contesting under T Proctor. (Contest archive)

1934: West Cornwall Funerals. Among local musical organisations represented at the funeral were Penzance Orchestral Society and Penzance Silver Band, in both of which Mr. Firth had played the trombone. (3 May 1934 – Cornishman)

1934: Newbridge Sports. Penzance Silver Band was attendance and played throughout the afternoon. (31 May 1934 – Cornishman)

1934: Sunday-school festival Saturday. Penzance Silver Band – the procession marched up and down the village, and then formed circle in the Trevelyan Square, where the band played selections (14 June 1934 – Cornishman)

1934: For the many lovers of Band music, the Penzance Silver Band will provide a musical treat. (28 June 1934 – Cornishman)

1934: Mr. Geo. William Cave, bandmaster of Truro City Band, and formerly bandmaster of Penzance Silver Band, was the adjudicator of twenty-five bands in Class B at the 43th annual July Belle Vue Band Contest, Manchester, on Saturday. (19 July 1934 – Cornishman)

1934: Remembrance Sunday. Headed by the Penzance Silver Band, under Bandmaster Procter. (15 November 1934 – Cornishman)

1934: Christmastide At Penzance. Penzance Silver Band and the Salvation Army Band made their usual rounds. (27 December 1934 – Cornishman)

1935: Marazion Town Band. Dennis Jewell had joined H.M. Forces. The band had been fortunate in getting the services of some former members of Penzance Silver Band. Incidentally, they were grateful for the services rendered to them in the past by Mr. Probert. (10 January 1935 – Cornishman)

1935: Penzance Town Council. The Committee considered the question of the engagement of the Penzance Silver Band and it was resolved that the Band be required to perform in the Promenade. (11 April 1935 – Cornishman)

1935: Enjoyable alfresco dance on the Promenade, for which music for will be provided by Penzance Silver Band. (11 April 1935 – Cornishman)

1935: Penzance and the Silver Jubilee. Winter Garden Orchestra and Jerry Baker’s Band. Music by the Penzance Silver Band. (18 April 1935 – Cornishman)

1935: Message For The King. Penzance rose to the occasion in an excellent manner. A march through the town by the Penzance Silver Band, heralded the event, and soon a big crowd began to assemble till Alverton from the bottom railings of the Public Buildings. (2 May 1935 – Cornishman)

1935: Penzance and the Jubilee. Penzance Silver Band rendered lively selections. (9 May 1935 – Cornishman)

1935: Newbridge Show and Sports. Penzance Silver Band, under Mr. Proctor, rendered selections. (30 May 1935 – Cornishman)

1935: Rugby – Penzance when the home team met Penryn. Penzance Silver Band played selections before the game and at half-time. (24 October 1935 – Cornishman)

1935: Rugby. Penzance Silver Band rendered selections before the kick-off was 18 minutes late. …” (7 November 1935 – Cornishman)

1935: Remembrance Sunday At Penzance. … the big crowd was able to take part in the proceedings, and joined heartily in the … the hymns, which was led by Penzance Silver Band (under Mr. J. Davies) The band also gave excellent rendering of O, rest in the Lord, from Mendelssohn’s oratorio, Elijah …” (14 November 1935 – Cornishman)

1935: “Penzance Corporation At Church.  The procession was headed by Penzance Silver Band under the conductorship of Mr. Davies. (21 November 1935 – Cornishman)

1935: Penzance Band helps Mayor’s Fund. Penzance Silver Band gave their services. (26 December 1935 – Cornishman)

1936: Christmas At West Cornwall Hospital. Penzance Silver Band played. (2 January 1936 – Cornishman)

1936: Mr. Mottershead was a well-known figure in Penzance. He came to the town many years ago as a member of the Town Band, of which Mr. Corrison was bandmaster, and remained with it till its dissolution. (2 January 1936 – Cornishman)

1936: Penzance Silver Band, and the Salvation Army Band, played Christmas music in the streets. (2 January 1936 – Cornishman)

1936: Edward VIII Proclaimed King. Penzance Silver Band played the National Anthem. (23 January 1936 – Cornishman)

1936: Penzance Mourns King George. The procession moved off with a stately step, led by Penzance Silver Band. (30 January 1936 – Cornishman)

1936: Penzance Town Council have agreed to the application of Penzance Silver Band for a grant and the same facilities as last year. (13 February 1936 – Cornishman)

1936: Penzance Corporation At Church. Headed by Penzance Silver Band it marched to the church. (20 February 1936 – Cornishman)

1936: Mr. W. G. Cave, who for some years was bandmaster of Penzance Silver Band, and more recently bandmaster of Truro City Band, and Mr. A. W. Parker, bandmaster of Camborne Town Band, were adjudicators. (14 May 1936 – Cornishman)

1936: Newlyn Hospital. The procession, headed by Penzance Silver Band, comprised in addition, men and women members of St. Ives and Penzance Ambulance Brigades, men and women’s sections of Newlyn. (4 June 1936 – Cornishman)

1936: Feast Of Corpus Christi. Penzance Silver Band had very kindly agreed to lead the procession and provide music for the hymns. (18 June 1936 – Cornishman)

1936: Penzance Corporation At Church. The procession was headed by Penzance Silver Band. (9 July 1936 – Cornishman)

1936: Carnival Comes Back. Music was supplied by the West Cornwall Radio service and Penzance Silver Band under the Mr. Davies. (20 August 1936 – Cornishman)

1936: Swimming for the Hospital. Music was supplied by the Penzance Silver Band. (3 September 1936 – Cornishman)

1936: Observance Sunday At Penzance led by Penzance Silver Band. (12 November 1936 – Cornishman)

1936: Mayor’s Sunday At Penzance. Procession led by Penzance Silver Band under Mr. W Prowse. (19 November 1936 – Cornishman)

1936: Kings’s Proclamation. It took a very short while to read. The Penzance Silver Band played the National Anthem. Another King had been proclaimed. (17 December 1936 – Cornishman)

1937: London-Cornish Celebrate the Coronation. Headed by Penzance Silver Band, and Penzance Salvation Army occupied a position in the centre of the precession.  (13 May 1937 – Cornishman)

1937: The Coronation. George VI. and Queen Elizabeth. The Procession. Penzance Silver Band under Mr. W. Prowse. (13 May 1937 – Cornishman)

1937: Children’s Sports At Penzance. Music was provided by Penzance Silver Band. (20 May 1937 – Cornishman)

1937: Penzance Corporation At Church. Headed by Penzance Silver Band. (20 May 1937 – Cornishman)

1937: “Penzance Carnival. Music was provided by Penzance Silver Band, Marazion Town Band, Heamoor Bugle Band and amplifier vans. (20 May 1937 – Cornishman)

1937: Penzance Independent contesting under W Prowse. (Contest archive)

1937: Feast Of Corpus Christi. Music was rendered by Penzance Silver Band, for whose services the organisers are extremely grateful. (3 June 1937 – Cornishman)

1937: Penzance Silver Band is celebrating its jubilee. Fifty years ago it was founded under the leadership of John Andrew. Previously its members had formed the band of the A. Co. Rifle Volunteer Corps then took the title Penzance Independent Band. (8 July 1937 – Cornishman)

1937: Community Singing at Penzance. Music will be provided by Penzance Silver Band. (5 August 1937 – Cornishman)

1937: Penzance Y.M.C.A. Fete. Penzance Silver Band, under the baton of Bandmaster J. Andrew, supplied appropriate musical background. (5 August 1937 – Cornishman)

1937: Beauty Crowned At Penzance. During the evening, selections of music were admirably rendered by Penzance Silver Band. (19 August 1937 – Cornishman)

1937: Paul Feast. The day was gloriously fine and prior to the service there was a procession through the village, headed by Penzance Silver Band. (14 October 1937 – Cornishman)

1937: Penzance Silver Band, conducted by Mr. W. Prowse, rendered selections the field. (21 October 1937 – Cornishman)

1937: Remembrance Sunday At Penzance. The singing was led by Penzance Silver Band. A procession assembled at the Public Buildings marched to the War Memorial, led the Penzance Silver Band. (11 November 1937 – Cornishman)

1937: Football. Penzance Silver Band rendered selections on the field. (11 November 1937 – Cornishman)

1937: Choosing The Carnival Queen. The music was provided by the Penzance Silver Prize Band, who gave some rousing selections well in keeping with the occasion, under the baton of Mr. W. Prowse. (12 August 1937 – Cornishman)

1937: Mayoral Sunday At Penzance. The procession was formed the Public Buildings, and was headed by Penzance Silver Band. (18 November 1937 – Cornishman)

1937: Choirs of the two churches and Salvation Army and Penzance Silver Band discoursed carols and other selections. (30 December 1937 – Cornishman)

1938: Penzance Y.M.C.A. Excellent quartettes and solos for cornet and trombone by a quartette of the Penzance Silver Band —Messrs. Penaluna, Symons, Ladner and Rowe under the direction of Mr. Prowse. (10 February 1938 – Cornishman)

1938: Boys’ Brigade Rally At Mousehole. Headed by the Penzance Silver Band. (24 February 1938 – Cornishman)

1938: Mousehole Methodist Anniversary. Penzance Silver Band, conducted by Mr. John  W. Prowse directing the pieces. (28 April 1938 – Cornishman)

1938: Thrilling Cup Final. Penzance Silver Band, conducted by Mr. W. Pascoe, rendered selections. (5 May 1938 – Cornishman)

1938: Whitsuntide At Penzance. The wind brew strongly from the south. This meant that the Promenade was almost deserted, though Penzance Silver Band rendered a programme in the evening. (9 June 1938 – Cornishman)

1938: Penzance Independent contesting under J Andrew. (Contest archive)

1938: In Honour Of Blessed Sacrament. Singing of hymns was led by Penzance Silver Band. (23 June 1938 – Cornishman)

1938: Civic Service At Newlyn Trinity Methodist Church. The procession assembled at the War Memorial, and led by the Penzance Silver Band. (30 June 1938 – Cornishman)

1938: Annual tea treat on Saturday, when officers, teachers and scholars paraded the village, headed by the Penzance Silver Band, and then returned to the schoolroom for tea. During the afternoon and Evening the band rendered selections. (14 July 1938 – Cornishman)

1938: Penzance Carnival. Penzance Silver Band, under Bandmaster Prowse, rendered selections which whiled the time away. (4 August 1938 – Cornishman)

1938: Claimants To A Dainty Throne. Selections by Penzance Silver Band under Bandmaster Prowse. (11 August 1938 – Cornishman)

1938: Newlyn Carnival. The procession will include Penzance Silver Band and Madron British Legion Bugle Band. (18 August 1938 – Cornishman)

1938: Remembrance Sunday At Penzance. The parade was headed by Penzance Silver Band. (10 November 1938 – Cornishman)

1938: Paul Feast. Headed by Penzance Silver Band. (13 October 1938 – Cornishman)

1938: Penzance Silver Band freely giving their services to assist the work of Dr. Barnardo’s Homes. (27 October 1938 – Cornishman)

1938: Vision In Civic Life. Procession to the church, headed by Penzance Silver Band. (17 November 1938 – Cornishman)

1938: Penzance Silver Band visited the town on Sunday, and played several carols. (22 December 1938 – Cornishman)

1938: Penzance Silver Band, conducted by Mr. W. Prowse, rendered selections on Christmas Day. (29 December 1938 – Cornishman)

1939: Buffaloes Parade of Penzance headed by Penzance Silver Band. (9 March 1939 – Cornishman)

1939: At the close of the evening service … a sacred concert by the Penzance Silver Band (conductor, Mr. W. Prowse) and Newlyn Male Voice Choir (conductor. M. J. Morgan Hoskings. (9 March 1939 – Cornishman)

1939: In Aid Of The Hospital. Penzance Silver Band has perhaps seldom been heard to greater advantage. The acoustics were admirable. (27 April 1939 – Cornishman)

1939: Penzance Silver Band New Conductor Appointed. The committee of the Penzance Silver Band have engaged a professional conductor. Many applications were received for the post, for which Mr. J. Turnbull was selected. (24 May 1939 – Cornishman)

1939: Corpus Christi At Penzance. During the procession hymns were sung to the accompaniment of the Penzance Silver Band. (15 June 1939 – Cornishman)

1939: Legion Rally At Penzance. The procession was headed by Penzance Silver Band and Madron Bugle Band. (15 June 1939 – Cornishman)

1939: Garden Fete. Penzance Silver Band (conductor Mr. J. Turnbull), will render selections during the afternoon. (6 July 1939 – West Briton and Cornwall Advertiser)

1939: Canonstown. The Methodist Sunday-school treat was headed by Penzance Silver Band. (27 July 1939 – Cornishman)

1939: Guides, Sea Scouts, etc., the procession to the church was led by the Penzance Silver Band. (3 August 1939 – Cornishman)

1939: Swimming Gala – Penzance Silver Band. at Jubilee Bathing Pool. (3 August 1939 – Cornishman)

1939: Penzance Queens Crowned. Penzance Silver Band, conducted by Mr. J. Turnbull. (3 August 1939 – West Briton and Cornwall Advertiser)

1939: OYEZ! OYEZ! OYEZ! First of all, though, it must be mentioned that, headed by the Penzance Silver Band the town criers processed from the railway station to the venue of the encounter. (10 August 1939 – Cornishman)

1939: Champion Town Crier, Fowey Man Wins Cup. Penzance Silver Band headed the procession. (10 August 1939 – West Briton and Cornwall Advertiser)

1939: The children could not go on the Towans as arranged, but marched through the town headed by the Penzance Silver Band. (10 August 1939 – Cornishman)

1939: Methodist Sunday-school treat headed by Penzance Silver Band. (10 August 1939 – West Briton and Cornwall Advertiser)

1939: Plymouth Congress Hall Salvation Army Band visited Penzance, on Saturday and Sunday, and delighted large audiences. Penzance Silver Band gave way for the visitors to play in the Morrab Gardens. (17 August 1939 – West Briton and Cornwall Advertiser)

1939: The parade was headed by Penzance Silver Band, under Mr. J. Turnbull. (17 August 1939 – West Briton and Cornwall Advertiser)

1939: Two Bands, Penzance Silver, and Marazion Town, were taking part. (24 August 1939 – Cornishman)

1939: In the evening Penzance Silver Band gave selections of music, under the conductorship of Mr. J. Turnbull. (24 August 1939 – Cornishman)

1939: Mount Zion Methodist Church, Mousehole. In the evening a concert of light music was given by Penzance Silver Band, conducted by Mr. J. Turnbull. (24 August 1939 – Cornishman)

1939: Penzance Silver Band headed the procession and Penzance Salvation Army Band also participated. (16 November 1939 – West Briton and Cornwall Advertiser)

1939: Remembrance Sunday At Penzance. The procession formed in front of the Public Buildings, where was headed by Penzance Silver Band and Penzance Salvation Army Band.  (16 November 1939 – Cornishman)

1939: Christmas in the Wards. Penzance Silver Band went along to play carols. (25 December 1939 – West Briton and Cornwall Advertiser)

1939: There were very few carol singers in the streets and hardly any organised parties. Penzance Silver Band, under the conductorship of Mr. J. Turnbull, made their customary rounds of the streets on Christmas Eve. (25 December 1939 – West Briton and Cornwall Advertiser)

1939: Christmas At Penzance. There were not so many carol parties as in past – for years this has shown a decline, but the Penzance Silver Band was in evidence, and there were a few small choirs of youngsters. (28 December 1939 – Cornishman)

1940: Christmas at Penzance. There were not as many carol parties as in the past – for years this has shown a decline, but the Penzance Silver Band (under the conductorship Mr. J. Turnbull), made their customary rounds of the streets on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day. (4 January 1940 – Cornishman)

1940: Penzance Town Council. Letter from the Penzance Silver Band accepting the offer made by the committee, but asking that favourable consideration be given to the grant being increased. (11 April 1940 – Cornishman)

1940: Penzance Salvation Army. The Brass Quartette Party of the Penzance Silver Band, under Mr. E. Thomas. (2 May 1940 – Cornishman)

1940: Penzance Catholics. Thanks are due to the Penzance Silver Band for accompanying the hymns. (30 May 1940 – Cornishman)

1940: The instruments were originally lent to the Madron British Legion Band. In 1935 the Madron British Legion handed certain of the instruments to the Kitsilano Penzance Boys Band. (6 June 1940 – Cornishman)

1940: Forthcoming Broadcast. “Music-makers’ Half Hour,” there will be a recorded concert, contributed by Camborne Bach Quartet, Penzance Silver Band, and Heamoor Male Choir (under their conductor, Mr E. J. Tregarthen. The recordings were made some three months ago. (7 November 1940 – Cornishman)

1940: The proudest moment of all was when we heard over the wireless the wonderful singing of Heamoor Choir and the playing of Penzance Silver Band. It brought to our minds sweet recollections of home and, sir, were thrilled to hear them. (19 December 1940 – Cornishman)

1941: Christmas Day At Penzance Hospital. … Penzance Silver Band played carols there during the course of the day. (2 January 1941 – Cornishman)

1941: Cornish Music heard in U.S.A. Old home music by the Camborne Tin Miners’ Band and the St. Austell Ladies’ Choir, and last, but not least, Penzance Silver Band. (27 February 1941 – Cornishman)

1941: Impressive Procession at Penzance. Penzance Silver Band, in spite of many of their members having joined the Forces, very kindly rendered the music. (3 July 1941 – Cornishman)

1942: Corpus Christi Procession. Penzance Silver Band, in spite of many of its members having joined the Forces, very kindly rendered the music. (11 June 1942 – Cornishman)

1942: … Madron Girl Guides, under Captain Mrs Blewett; Penzance Sea Cadets (Sub-Lieut. A. Beckerleg, R.N.V.R.); Penzance Prize Silver Band (Bandmaster E. Thomas); Salvation Army Band (Bandmaster V. Lewis); and Penzance Youth Centre. (17 June 1942 – Cornishman)

1942: The procession was headed by Penzance Silver Band, and also accompanying the mayor were county and borough magistrates, representatives of the three lighting forces. (24 September 1942 – Cornishman)

1942: Paul Feast. A procession of the various Services through the village, led by the Penzance Silver Band. (15 October 1942 – Cornishman)

1943: The sections first marched to Penlee, whence, headed by Penzance Silver Band, they paraded St. Clement’s Church, where the first New Year service was impressively conducted. (7 January 1943 – Cornishman)

1943: West Cornwall Funerals. … son of Mr. and Mrs. J. Rowe, of 32, Rosevean-road. Before he joined the Army he was an enthusiastic member of Penzance Silver Band. (6 May 1943 – Cornishman)

1943: After them came the airmen of the future, the A.T.C. units from Penzance, Devonport High School, and St Just. Penzance Independent Band headed the last section. (24 June 1943 – Cornishman)

1943: West Cornwall Funerals. He had a great love for music, and it was he who founded the band now known as the Old Independent Band, or Penzance Silver Band. He was also a member of the Penzance Salvation Army Band. (30 September 1943 – Cornishman)

1943: Lift Up Your Hearts. The procession, which marched from the Municipal Buildings, was headed by the Penzance Silver Band (Conductor, Mr. E. Thomas). (30 September 1943 – Cornishman)

1943: Among those attending the service were: the Sheffield Home Guard, headed by Penzance Silver Band; Mousehole Home Guard, Mousehole Boys’ Brigade. Paul and Newlyn Girl Guides, and Civil Defence and St John Ambulance Nursing … (14 October 1943 – Cornishman)

1944: Penzance Horse Show. Penzance Silver Band, under the baton of Mr. Thomas, were indefatigable in their efforts, and they added greatly to the enjoyment of the day. (1 June 1944 – Cornishman)

1944: British Legion At Church.  The parade was headed by the Penzance Silver Band. (8 June 1944 – Cornishman)

1944: Corpus Christi Procession. About five hundred people took part in the procession, the Penzance Silver Band again rendering excellent service; in spite of many their members being away on war duty. (15 June 1944 – Cornishman)

1944: Penzance Independent Silver Band (under Mr. Thomas), paraded the principal streets to the North Pier, where three cheers were given for H.M. the King. (17 August 1944)

1944: Legion Gymkhana. Penzance Silver Band was in attendance. (28 September 1944 – Cornishman)

1945: Prior to the meeting a procession was held, headed by Penzance Silver Band. A collection taken on behalf of the Red Cross amounted to £3 18s. (10 May 1945 – Cornishman)

1945: Penzance Silver Band. All inquiries concerning engagements, please apply to the Hon. Secretary, T. W. Moulton, No. 6, York Street. Penzance. (7 June 1945 – Cornishman)

1945: Great Day At Ludgvan. The children formed into a procession, headed by the Penzance Independent Silver Band. (14 June 1945 – Cornishman)

1945: West Cornwall Sport. Penzance Silver Band will march through the town, and will be playing on the ground whilst spectators assemble. (20 September 1945 – Cornishman)

1945: Mennaye Field Season Opens. Penzance Silver Band was in attendance during the afternoon. (27 September 1945 – Cornishman)

1945: Mr. Corrison was many years a well-known and popular figure in Penzance, where he was the conductor of the Penzance Silver Band. He also formed an orchestra which raised a considerable sum for charity. (27 September 1945 – Cornishman)

1945: Remembrance Day at Newlyn. The contingents were led by the Penzance Silver Band, and the service terminated by the sounding of the Last Post. Prior to the service the Centenary Methodist Church, the Penzance Silver Band, heading the contingent of the Newlyn branch. (15 November 1945 – Cornishman)

1945: Commandos at St. Ives, who will bring a large crowd and a real pukka Highland piper. Saturday’s kick-off is at 3 p.m. Penzance Silver Band will be in attendance. (6 December 1945 – Cornishman)

1946: County Rugby Trial. Penzance Silver Band will be in attendance, and they have made the generous gesture of foregoing their usual collection on the ground. (10 January 1946 – Cornishman)

1946: Rugger Week-End. Penzance Silver Band have also generously decided to give their collection money to the Penlee Fund. A fine example for a fine cause. (28 March 1946 – Cornishman)

1946: Penzance & Newlyn Rugby Football Club. At the conclusion of their most successful first season. Penzance Silver Band and The Army Cadet Band provided cheery music.  (2 May 1946 – Cornishman)

1946: Victory Show A Record. Penzance Prize Silver Band, directed by Mr. E. Thomas, played throughout the day. (13 June 1946 – Cornishman)

1946: Corpus Christi. The hymns sung during the procession were accompanied as usual by the Penzance Silver Band, under the able leadership of their conductor, Mr. Prowse. (27 June 1946 – Cornishman)

1946: Penzance Silver Band, under the baton of Mr. E. Thomas, are giving much appreciated Sunday concerts in the Morrab’ Gardens. (8 August 1946 – Cornishman)

1946: First-Class Game At Penzance. Penzance Silver Band was in attendance. (19 September 1946 – Cornishman)

1947: Association Football Games. Before the kick-off, the Mayor of Penzance (Mr. J. T. Trezise), will welcome both teams, and Penzance Silver Band will render selections. (23 January 1947 – Cornishman)

1947: All Trade Unionists And Sympathisers Are Asked To Assemble At St. John’s Hall at 6-15. Penzance Silver Band in attendance. (29 May 1947 – Cornishman)

1947: Penzance Show Great Success. Penzance Silver Prize Band, under the conductorship of Mr. E. Thomas, were in attendance. (29 May 1947 – Cornishman)

1947: No Faltering For Labour. Before the meeting at St. John’s Hall, supporters marched in procession behind Penzance Silver Band. The gathering in the hall was entertained by the boys of St. Paul’s School, Penzance, who sang songs of Great Britain. (5 June 1947 – Cornishman)

1947: Four Hundred In Procession. Fr. D. Collins, assisted by two acolytes, led the way, followed by the children. after whom came the Penzance Silver Band, who very kindly rendered the music, and, as in other years have to be most highly congratulated for their devotion. (12 June 1947 – Cornishman)

1947: “Call to Prayer. A procession was led by Penzance Silver Band, under Mr. E. Thomas. (10 July 1947 – Cornishman)

1947: Newlyn’s Spirit Of Carnival. Among the thousands who saw the procession assemble, en route to music by Penzance Silver Band and Army Cadets’ Band, through the town. (7 August 1947 – Cornishman)

1947: Penzance Silver Band will give a concert in the Morrab Gardens next Sunday. (By kind permission of the Band Committee). (14 August 1947 – Cornishman)

1948: Magpies Bring County Cup To Penzance. When the Magpies reached Penzance they were met by a large, cheering crowd. Headed by Penzance Silver Band, they marched to St. John’s Hall, where they were met the Mayor of Penzance (Ald. J. T. Trezise), who congratulated them. (1 April 1948 – Cornishman)

1948: West Penwith football League Final Porthleven – Ludgvan. Penzance Silver Band in attendance. (29 April 1948 – Cornishman)

1948: Dancing will be on the Promenade from 8 p.m., with Penzance Silver Band. (20 May 1948 – Cornishman)

1948: Spirited marching tunes were played by Penzance Silver Band and the Bugle and Drum Band of the D.C.L.I, cadets. (19 August 1948 – Cornishman)

1948: Grand Sacred Concert by Penzance Silver Band (Bandmaster: Ernest Thomas). (2 December 1948 – Cornishman)

1949: Mount Zion Methodist Church. The procession headed by the Penzance Silver Band will leave the Sunday-school at 1.30 p.m. and parade the streets of Mousehole, and then to a field near Paul. (30 June 1949 – Cornishman)

1949: Heamoor-Madron British Legion Gala Day Saturday. August 1949. Penzance Silver Band in attendance. (7 July 1949 – Cornishman)

1949: “A Story Of Determination.Penzance Band Wins Through. Penzance Silver Band has had for a long time a special place in the affections of the townspeople, who have watched its progress with tolerance, enthusiasm and encouragement. Now, as it nears the close of a successful season, with performances every week in the Morrab Gardens and on the Promenade, as well as other engagements and rehearsals, the band does not intend to rest on its laurels, for there is much to be done. At present the playing strength is 21„ and the full complement 24. Recruits are needed to carry on from the older members of the band. Unfortunately, national service has robbed the band of several promising players. Two have come back to the band after their demobilisation, Mr. Alfred Chappell and Mr. Desmond Bawden, and another, Mr. Eric Thomas, is expected in November. Recruits come, and are welcomed, with no knowledge of music, and the instruments and uniform are provided by the Band Committee. Youngest playing member is 15- year-old John Taylor, an enthusiastic trumpeter who is making good progress in hospital after a recent accident. Band-Sergeant Tom Moulton (tenor horn) at 80, is the oldest playing member. He was a Regimental Sergeant Major in the Army. Three of the members of the original band, formed in 1887, are still living in Penzance, and take a keen interest in band affairs. They are Messrs. John Williams (bass). Charles Symons (cornet) and Tom Rowe (tenor horn). During the war three valuable players were killed – Messrs. Pat Aloulton (flugel), Jim Rowe (solo euphonium) and Leslie Waters (tenor horn). There is a memorial plaque to them in the band room St. James-street. Three other members had to give up playing through wounds—Messrs. Richard Williams (bass), Vivian Warren (cornet) and Jackie Symons (cornet). Since it was formed, after a breakaway with the local Volunteer band (hence its one-time name ” Independent “) the band has broken up only once, when the second World War started in 1939 until 1942 During the 1914—18 war, although depleted, the band carried on under Mr. A. Nicholls. After that war it passed through a lean time, probably because instruments were old and dilapidated. In 1924, the Committee decided to purchase a complete set of new instruments in cases, and after this the band had several successes, including the Cornish championship in 1926. In 1942 the band re-formed after its short war-time break, and for nearly four years carried on with 10 members—nine instrumentalists and a bass drum. We “certainly had a struggle,” said Mr. Ernest Thomas, bandmaster since then. They played at civic parades, in the Morrab Gardens on Sunday evenings and kept the band foundation going. Mr. Thomas who gives undivided enthusiasm to his work as bandmaster, has been a member since 1925. He was deputy bandmaster, under Mr. Probert and later studied under Mr. John Andrews, who was bandmaster until the outbreak of war. With Mr. Andrews’ death the band lost a great leader and a fine man who lived up to his high ideals. His photograph hangs in the band room and he is remembered with genuine affection. Mr. Thomas is well-known in the district as an accomplished cornetist and was a double silver medallist before he was 21. He still plays the cornet in the band, as well as carrying on his honorary duties as bandmaster. This means that the band takes up almost all his spare time, with twice-weekly rehearsals, as well as actual performances and individual. Since the death of Mr. Herbert Kessell, whose son plays principal trombone and is deputy-bandmaster, the chairmanship of the Band Committee has been held by Mr. Robert V. Rowe. Mr. Arthur Stokes is vice chairman, Mr. J. Pryor (B flat bass) is secretary. Mr. Charles Hamley (principal euphonium) is treasurer, both being enthusiastic players as well. The band depends entirely on local support. For playing on the Promenade and in the Morrab Gardens this season they received a grant of £50 from the Corporation. Even when the money from collections taken at the performances is added to this, there is still not enough to provide the badly needed new uniforms, which would cost about £300” (22 September 1949 – Cornishman)

1950: Scouts and Guides on Parade. Headed by Penzance Silver Band, the procession included Land and Sea Scouts, Wolf Cubs. … (27 April 1950 – Cornishman)

1950: Cattle Excel At Penzance. Penzance Silver Band played throughout the day. (1 June 1950 – Cornishman)

1950: Penzance Independent played at Angarrack Wesleyan tea treat for which they charged £12.10s. (Methodist tea-treats in Cornwall by Cedric Appleby)

1950: Band Concerts in Gardens Sunday afternoon since the beginning of July. Penzance Silver Town Band has played in the band stand in the Morrab Gardens. Crowds have gathered to hear them despite the weather. (24 August 1950 – Cornishman)

1950: Sunday Of Remembrance. Penzance Silver Band, marched to the church. (16 November 1950 – Cornishman)

1950: The 3rd Annual Grand Celebrity Concert by Penzance Silver Band under Bandmaster Ernest Thomas. (30 November 1950 – Cornishman)

Penzance Army Cadet Band at the Cornwall County finals at Redruth 1952 (Sid Cann Nostalgic Pz and Newlyn)

1954: Penzance Independent contesting under J R Grand. (Contest archive)

1957 to 1962 or later: A G Richards Penzance Independent MD. (Contest archive)

1959: Penzance Silver unplaceed in the Second Section (second tier) of the Regional Championships under A G Richards playing Yorkshire Ridings Suite by Sam B Wood.

1977 to 1979: E Thomas Penzance Independent MD. (Contest archive)

1980 circa: Contesting under Ron Symons Penzance Independent MD / conductor. (Contest archive)

1980: Penzance Silver withdrew from the Fourth Section of the SWBBA Contest.

1987: Contesting under J C Nicholls Penzance Independent MD / conductor. (Contest archive)

(Courtesy British Bandsman 18^th April 1987)

1996: Francis Ralph Penzance Band MD. Also welcomed were David Barnes, soprano, John Ralph, euphonium, Steve Thomas, euphonium and John Sandry, cornet. (British Bandsman 5^th October 1996)

1996: Penzance Silver unplaced (West Sou’west) in the Fourth Section of the SWBBA Contest under Francis Ralph.

1998: Penzance Silver placed 3^rd in the Fourth section of the 52^nd SWBBA Contest under F Ralph playing 1^st Suite in Eb by Holst/Herbert.

1999: Penzance Band placed 4^th in the Fourth section of the Regional Championships at the Colston Hall, Bristol, under Francis Ralph.

2000: Penzance Band placed 3^rd in the Fourth section of the Regional Championships under Francis Ralph playing The Haslemere Suite.

2000: Penzance Silver placed 2^nd in the Fourth section of the National Brass Band Championships of GB under Francis Ralph playing The Seasons by Philip Wilby.

(Courtesy British bandsman 26^th August 2000)

British Bandsman 16^th December 2000

2001: Penzance Silver placed 5^th in the Third Section of the National Brass Band Regional Championships under Francis Ralph playing Sinfonietta by Joseph Horowitz.

(British Bandsman 23^rd June 2001)

2001: Penzance Silver placed 3^rd in the Third section at the SWBBA Contest under S Thomas playing New World Symphony by Dvorak/D Rimmer.

2002: Penzance Silver placed 4^th in the Third section of the Regional Championships under R Farr playing St Austell Suite.

British Bandsman July 2002

2002 circa: Contesting under Steve Thomas Penzance Band MD / conductor. (Contest archive)

2002 to 2002: Steve Thomas Penzance Silver MD. (British Bandsman 9^th February 2002)

2002 to ????: Keith Anderson Penzance Silver MD. (British Bandsman 30^th November 2002)

John Brush recorded a Humphry Davy School Band but with no indication of when it existed.

 

 

 

 

Compiled by Tony Mansell (Bardh Kernow)

 

This collection is a part of the Cornish National Music Archive (CNMA) project to Collect, Preserve and Share our Cornish Heritage and Culture.

It is based on location as each may have had more than one band.

Our thanks go to all of the organisations and individuals, whether named or not, who have provided information and photographs for this archive.

If you own the copyright to any of the photographs included here then please let us know and they will be credited or removed.

If you are able to correct or update any information included here then please leave a comment.