Question 1

What type of music does GCCB play?

Accepted Answer

We play a wide variety of music from classical to film scores, theatre to contemporary and everything in between - some really fun, some really challenging - but all for the joy of playing music together.

Question 2

How much of a commitment is required?

Accepted Answer

We rehearse weekly, and whilst we have various performance engagements throughout the year, our primary focus is towards our two annual concerts, usually around early June, and early December.

Throughout the year we have a variety of community, social and fundraising events too.

We encourage all members to attend as many rehearsals as possible, but understand that not everyone will be able to make every additional performance or event we do, and that's ok!

Question 3

What are the requirements for joining?

Accepted Answer

One of the things we love about our band is that our members are of all ages and abilities and backgrounds, and whilst many are local and from the Glasgow area, we also have quite a few who have a bit of a commute to rehearsals!

There are no auditions for new members and players of concert band instruments (woodwind, brass, percussion and even bass/bass guitar!) to a reasonable musical standard are welcome to join at any time.  We are unable to hold open rehearsals at the moment as have long waiting list for many of our sections - particularly clarinet and saxophone, but we will post any information about events on our website and social media.

Please visit the Contact page and click the Join Us button to find out if we currently have space in your instrument section or send us a message and we'll be happy to help.

Question 4

What is the cost of becoming a member?

Accepted Answer

We have a subscription of £10 per month (or £120 annually) which covers the hire of our rehearsal space, purchasing music, paying our conductor and covering the cost of insurance.  Most of our events and concerts are covered through fundraising activities.

If you would like to join but are concerned about meeting the financial cost, please get in touch with us.

Question 5

I would like to come along, but I don't have an instrument?

Accepted Answer

All members bring their own instrument, with the exception of percussion instruments, which we can provide use of at rehearsals and concerts.  You will also need your own music stand!

The Band owns a few more specialised instruments such as an alto and bass clarinet and baritone saxophone, which our members can use, but beyond this all players have their own instrument.

If you need help sourcing an instrument let us know and we may be able to put you in touch with someone who could assist.

Question 6

I have a disability or an access requirement, can I still join?

Accepted Answer

As long as you can play your instrument to a reasonable standard, and we have a space in your section, then absolutely!

We currently have a wheelchair accessible rehearsal space (including toilets), a relaxed rehearsal environment, and all of our members are friendly and approachable.  We would be happy to consider any reasonable access requirements (e.g. larger print music) - please feel free to get in touch and let us know what you need and we can advise if we'd be able to assist.

The wellbeing and safety of our members is important but please note that as a volunteer-run, amateur music group, we are limited in terms of what we can offer and are unable to provide any professional medical or health support.

Questions?