The Brighton Bandstand re-opens Friday July 24!

After decades of neglect, the historic Grade II listed Bandstand will finally re-open fully-restored to its former glory on July 24 at 8pm click here.

                

The Brighton Bandstand Campaign was created in spring 2007 to press for the restoration of this beautiful building and for it to be brought into full use as a venue for traditional music. Founded by Patricia Horne, Sue Cartwright and Meg Stone, all local Hove residents, they share a passion and love for the Brighton Bandstand and wanted to see it restored to its former glory and in regular use for musical performances. The Campaign worked closely with Brighton and Hove Council to ensure that the Bandstand’s profile was raised and campaigned to have it renovated.

This proved to be a popular cause with local people. Many others joined the team and during the first three months two thousand signatures of support were gathered! The Argus was very attentive and generous with coverage of their efforts and every plan was met with eager approval from Council officers. Everyone was absolutely delighted when Councillor Theobald announced in July 2007 that funds had been agreed to renovate the bandstand. We are so grateful to the officers in the Council’s Environment Department for their support and for designing such a sympathetic restoration. We can hardly wait until it is completed.

For the latest information on the restoration see Brighton and Hove City Council’s website: www.brighton-hove.gov.uk

Music
It was clear from comments on the original petition that many people wanted traditional music to be played again on the bandstand. In order to provide for this in the interim, the Campaign organised several Sunday afternoon concerts next to the bandstand in autumn 2007 and summer 2008. There has been much support from brass/silver bands, jazz bands and a choir of young people also sang to much acclaim.

A new petition, created to ascertain the level of support for music on the prom, confirms that there is an overwhelming desire from people of all ages and walks of life for regular concerts.

Funds
Originally the Campaign set out to raise funds towards the renovation of the bandstand. Now that it has been saved by the Council, some funds raised are used to book bands, choirs and dance groups and to cover basic overheads for these performances. Bands have generously played for free but we offer a small amount towards travel expenses and if any band plays more than once they are paid a more substantial sum. In addition, we are aiming to accrue sufficient resources to contribute some permanent seating in the surrounding area when the landscaping is completed.

Join Us
Meetings are held regularly, if you would like to become a member, email: sue47x@gmail.com to sign up and we'll add you to our newsletter list and let you know about our upcoming meetings and events! If you would like to make a donation to our cause, email: lynnemoore@onetel.com for our bank details. Many thanks for your support!