About The Band

Under the musical direction of Captain David Cole MVO MMUS ARCM RM, the Central Band is dedicated to music making at the highest level.

Concerts
The Central Band has travelled extensively, including a concert tour of the Lake Geneva area of France, the Isle of Man and concerts in Germany. Closer to home we have performed nationwide including Scarborough, Bridlington, Blackpool, Huddersfield, Sheffield, Leamington Spa, Lincoln, London, Canterbury, Hastings, Folkestone, Worthing, Chichester, Portsmouth, Street (Somerset) and Plymouth.

Every year since 1976 the band has entertained thousands of holidaymakers – often drawing record crowds – during a week of daily concerts on the famous bandstand at Eastbourne. The Band’s popularity there is such that many people book their summer holidays to coincide with the Band’s week of residence!

Music
The Central Band plays a wide range of music, including concert marches, classical, show music, modern concert band pieces, big band sounds and more modern rock arrangements. Aside from the Director of Music, David Cole, there are a number of talented arrangers within the Band who continue to contribute new arrangements to its library. David Cole’s well-known and spectacular arrangements are a feature in many Central Band concerts.

Membership profile
Whilst the Band has amateur status, many members are professional and ex-professional musicians, including musicians from the Royal Marines, the Royal Engineers and the Royal Air Force Bands. The male and female membership come from all walks of life and includes Doctors (PhDs), company directors, senior managers, accountants, civil servants, teachers and students. There is an active social side with various events throughout the year.