Long Buckby Community Band
Passionate musicians creating harmonious melodies.
Welcome to our lively Community Wind Band! We’re excited to have you join us! Together, we’ll dive into the world of wind band repertoire, make friends and share unforgettable experiences. There are no auditions and everyone is welcome. Join the band and flourish with us!
Hear us play!
Join us for some festive fun!
We're excited to announce our Upcoming Events:
On 29th November at 4:00pm, come and enjoy the Christmas Lights Switch On in the Market Place, Long Buckby.
Then, on 13th December at 10:30am, gather with us for Christmas Carols in the Market Square, Long Buckby.
We can't wait celebrate the season with you!
Book us!
Do you have an event coming up where we could add some sparkle? Drop an email to our Band Manager, Helen, at longbuckbycommunityband@gmail.com
News
The Long Buckby Community Band had a fantastic time bringing holiday tunes to the Market Square for the carol singers, officially kicking off the village's Christmas festivities—because what’s Christmas without a little music and a lot of cheer?
We were thrilled to see ourselves in the Daventry Express and can’t wait to return next year, hopefully with even more jingle bells!
A big thanks to Daniel Tabor for the write-up!
🎅✨ Relaxing on Santa’s Sleigh at Wappenham Farm ✨🎶
After our first Christmas concert at Wappenham Farm, we enjoyed a well-earned relax on Santa’s sleigh! As part of the farm’s wonderful Christmas Festival, we were absolutely delighted to be there — the atmosphere was magical from start to finish.
With toasted marshmallows in hand and festive lights all around, we felt truly welcomed by everyone.
Thank you to Wappenham Farm for hosting such a special event and for giving us the perfect start to our Christmas season! 🎄🎺
News
🎄St Lawrence’s Church Christmas Tree Festival 🎶
Long Buckby Community Band is delighted to present our festive Christmas tree for this year’s St Lawrence’s Church Christmas Tree Festival.
Many of the decorations were lovingly handmade by our own band members, each one celebrating the music we share throughout the year — from miniature instruments and musical notes to tiny sheet-music garlands and brass-themed ornaments.
Right at the very top sits Chris the Conductor, proudly keeping everything in perfect time as he watches over the tree! He’s become a cheerful symbol of the band’s spirit, teamwork, and sense of fun.
It's our first year decorating a community tree and we’re thrilled to add a touch of musical magic to the festival. Wishing everyone a joyful, tuneful, and very merry Christmas from all of us at Long Buckby Community Band! 🎺✨
News
🎅✨Walking with Santa’s Sleigh ✨🎶
Long Buckby Community Band had a fantastic evening joining Santa’s sleigh as it travelled around the village, helping collect donations for local charities in partnership with Danetre Rotary.
Despite the cold and rainy weather, our spirits were far from dampened! With festive tunes playing, cheerful waves from doorways, and children dashing out to see Santa, the whole night felt full of community warmth and Christmas magic.
A huge thank-you to everyone who came out to support the collection — your generosity makes a real difference. And thank you to Danetre Rotary for inviting us to be part of such a wonderful local tradition.
Wishing everyone in Long Buckby a joyful and musical Christmas season! 🎄🎺✨
News
Daniel, a talented member of our Trumpet Section, performed at the Long Buckby Service of Remembrance. He is pictured with last year's Bugler, Helen, as they honored the occasion together. His performance brought a heartfelt touch to the Memorial Service, reflecting the spirit of Remembrance and community.
Daniel has had a busy week as he prepares to play the Last Post before the match at Long Buckby AFC. It's an honor him to be part of such a meaningful moment, and he's excited to share this experience with the community. He's a wonderful ambassador for the Band.
Concert Review
You can read Daniel's review of our June concert at St Lawrence's Church here: New Buckby band raises the roof
Stay tuned for videos
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About Us
Our Mission
Welcome to the Long Buckby Community Band, where friendship and inclusivity are at the heart of everything we do! We believe in creating a lively atmosphere that fosters musical growth and enjoyment for everyone. Here, you’ll have the chance to learn, have fun, and connect with fellow musicians. Let’s make some joyful noise together!
We rehearse at St Lawrence's Church Schoolrooms in Long Buckby every Wednesday evening between 7.00pm and 9.00pm.
Please let us know you are coming and we'll make sure there's some music for you to play!
All welcome, but children must be accompanied by an adult.
Our Musical Director - Chris Music, Founder, Treasurer and Trustee
Chris's journey into conducting began at the tender age of 8 when he was selected to lead the other children in the primary school production of 'Oliver!' He conducted the song 'Food, Glorious Food' and discovered his passion for music direction, which has only grown stronger over the years.
In 2000, Chris moved to Gibraltar, where his talents as a conductor and musical director were quickly recognised. He was invited to take on the role of Musical Director for the Ex-Royal Marine Band, a position he held with distinction for 15 years.
During this time, Chris made a significant impact on the musical landscape of Gibraltar and the surrounding regions, producing and directing a variety of high-profile concerts and productions.
His stand-out achievements include organising and leading performances such as Last Night of the Proms, which celebrated the grand tradition of British classical music, and an Andrew Lloyd Webber tribute evening that featured a 40-strong choir performing on Gibraltar's National Day Stage. Perhaps his most ambitious project was Les Miserables in Concert, a spectacular event staged in the dramatic setting of St Michael's Cave. This production brought together 80 performers from Gibraltar and Spain and was a resounding success, showcasing Chris's ability to unite and inspire diverse talents.
Upon returning to the UK in 2015, Chris continued his musical journey. He is currently the Musical Director of the Abington Wind Band, Kettering Silver Band and Just Jazz. He remains an active musician as a member of the Nene Valley Community Band, further demonstrating his dedication to fostering community through music.
Chris's career reflects his life-long commitment to the art of conducting and his talent for creating memorable musical experiences that bring people together.
Our Founders
Donna Rowan Gold, Trustee
Oboe, Clarinet, and Website Manager
Donna has always loved music, but for much of her life, the opportunity to play wasn’t there. That changed one day at her son’s band rehearsal, when the Musical Director unexpectedly handed her a clarinet. It was a small gesture that sparked a big transformation — and marked the beginning of her musical journey.
Starting with woodwinds, Donna quickly fell in love with the richness and versatility of wind instruments. She now plays oboe with the Coventry City of Culture Orchestra and serves as Deputy Chair of the Abington Wind Band.
Her musical interests have continued to expand: she plays soprano saxophone, exploring jazz and improvisation, and has taken up the violin, performing with the Roade Orchestra, and experimenting with the lively style of bluegrass fiddle.
Driven by the belief that music should be accessible to everyone, Donna is passionate about creating inclusive opportunities for musicians of all ages and backgrounds. Her journey is a joyful testament to lifelong learning and the many paths music can open — no matter when you start.
Helen King, Trustee
Flute, Band Manager and Publicity
Helen's journey with music has been a testament to her enduring passion and dedication. Beginning her flute-playing at the tender age of nine, she quickly developed a love of the instrument, often losing herself in hours of practice.
After a long hiatus from Group performances, Helen's return to ensemble music in 2019 with the Abington Wind Band rekindled her enthusiasm, leading to her appointment as Chairperson in 2020 - a role in which she proudly guides the band's evolution.
Beyond this, Helen's musical endeavors extend to playing with the Nene Valley Community Band, Just Jazz and the Kettering Silver Band. Her musical curiosity has also led her to explore the cornet, expanding her instrumental repertoire.
Now as the Manager of Long Buckby Community Band, Helen is committed to nurturing its growth, ensuring it flourishes and reaches new heights. Her story is a beautiful reminder of the joy and fulfilment that music can bring, regardless of the time spent away from it.
