The Glasgow Wind Band (originally called The Glasgow Youth Band) was formed in 1972 to provide an opportunity for senior school pupils, students and adult members of the public to participate in a symphonic wind band of the very highest calibre. Even today, this is still the band’s mission statement. The current membership numbers some 60 or so instrumentalists from varied backgrounds and professions. The members of the band range in age from 16 to mid-40s, with the large majority in their 20s.

Formerly supported by the Community Education department of Glasgow City council, the band is now an entirely self-supporting organisation and is financed through membership subscriptions and revenue from its concerts. In 2005, the band was awarded a substantial grant for percussion equipment through the National Lottery Awards For All scheme.

The Glasgow Wind Band regularly takes part in both BASBWE conference and the National Concert Band Festival. The band has amassed an impressive haul of 10 Gold Awards at the Scottish regional NCBF and their most recent Gold Award at the National Festival was in 2004.

In addition to festivals, the band performs a regular programme of concerts at the end of each academic term, including a formal concert at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama every March. The band has performed many times at the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall and in 2002, had the honour of being asked to play for Her Majesty The Queen during her Golden Jubilee celebrations.

The GWB's programme at the IWF will include Marco Putz's flute concerto, Passacaglia by Tim Jackson and a new work by Oliver Searle.

Why not visit their excellent website where you can even purchase a Glasgow Wind Band mug!