Stalybridge Civic Hall was full on Saturday 6 December as music lovers from across Tameside gathered for The Best of Christmas Brass, a festive concert performed by the historic Stalybridge Old Band.
The event, which kicked off at 7:30pm in the beautifully decorated Victoria Market Hall, delivered a joyful programme of carols, seasonal favourites, and brass band classics. Audiences were treated to the bold, unmistakable sound of one of the UK’s oldest and most celebrated brass bands, which has been a cornerstone of local musical heritage for more than two centuries.
Founded in 1809 by local musicians Thomas Avison and Billy Hall, Stalybridge Old Band holds the distinction of being Britain’s first all-brass band. What began with just eight members evolved by the 1840s into a pioneering ensemble that helped shape a defining tradition of British music. Their performance on Saturday continued that legacy, showcasing the skill and spirit that has kept the band at the heart of the community for generations.
The concert formed part of Stalybridge Civic Hall’s expanding programme of cultural events, which has seen the venue grow into a vibrant hub for live music, theatre, comedy, and community celebrations. With increasing numbers of visitors from across the borough and beyond, the hall is fast becoming one of Tameside’s key cultural destinations.
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