Posted: 05/02/25
Derwent Brass is thrilled to announce that Belper Town Council has awarded the band a £1,000 Community Grant to support the purchase of acoustic panels. This crucial funding will help enhance the sound quality in the band’s short term rehearsal space, ensuring they can continue their high-calibre music-making despite recent challenges.
The grant comes at a pivotal time for Derwent Brass, which was recently forced to relocate from its long-standing home at the Strutt’s Centre in Belper. While the band is determined to secure a long-term return to the town, support like this helps sustain their musical excellence in the meantime.
Band Manager Chris Leonard expressed his gratitude:
“We are incredibly thankful to Belper Town Council for recognising the importance of Derwent Brass and the cultural value we bring to the community. This funding will directly improve our rehearsal environment, allowing us to prepare effectively for our upcoming performances and competitions, including annual events in Belper.”
One such highlight will be Derwent Brass headlining the Council’s Larks in the Park concert series at Belper River Gardens. This popular annual event, which regularly attracts hundreds of local supporters, is a summer staple celebrating live music in a beautiful outdoor setting.
The band will also be performing at several other key events in Belper throughout the year, including their Festival of Remembrance and Christmas Cracker concerts at St. Peter’s Church - both of which are now beloved fixtures in the town’s cultural calendar.
www.belpertowncouncil.gov.uk
