THE Aldbourne Band played a rousing outdoor concert to a packed village green last week.

Surrounded by thatched cottages, the pub and the village church, a large audience enjoyed this year’s traditional Proms on the Green concert given by the Aldbourne Band on August 6.

With a programme that showcased three of the band’s soloists and the complete cornet section, musical director David Johnson delighted the crowd with music ranging from Verdi’s Force of Destiny, a Mozart Horn Concerto, Benedictus from Carl Jenkins’ War Requiem, to music from the Western Silverado, Putting on the Ritz and a Glen Miller selection.

Janet Roe, the band's publicity officer, said: "A wonderful addition to this year’s prom was the superb young soprano Tilly Wale who gave a masterful performance of “I dreamed a dream” from Les Miserables accompanied by the band, and later in the concert led the crowds in the traditional singing of Rule Britannia and Land of Hope and Glory.

"The hardworking Friends of Aldbourne Band had organised a raffle and also provided mouth-watering cakes and cups of tea for the crowds to enjoy, raising funds for the financially self-supporting village band who are in the world’s top 50 brass bands.

"The band’s final pond concert of the season will be at 6.45pm on Sunday, September 3 in the village square. Bring a chair, buy yourself a drink from the nearby pub and settle down to enjoy the evening’s concert."

She also added that the band was always keen to welcome new friends to support the band. Those interested should contact the membership secretary on 01672 540419.

The band is also keen to hear from committed, good quality brass players interested in joining its ranks.

For more information contact the chairman Ian Keene on 07799 648585 or email secretary@aldbourne-band.co.uk.