Who was Ged Watson?:
Ged Watson was the founder the band and taught many of the older musicians at various Music Schools in North East Essex, including Landermere Music School and Witham Area Music School. He decided many years ago that there was a need for a wind course for young people. The first course was held at Thurstable School in 1979 with people sleeping, eating and rehursing in the same hall over a weekend. (click the link to find out more)
What is the Ged Watson Memorial Band?:
The Ged Watson Memorial Band is a Concert Wind Band made up of young talented musicians from North East Essex. Every Easter these young people come together at Wicken House, and study and reherse a selection of music for the week to put on a concert. The music is usually related to a set theme. Themes in the past have included cops and robbers, animals, films and tv shows, occupations and the most recent theme being Superheroes. The Band has around 50 players of varying age, the average age is currently 14 years.
How long has the band been running?:
The band, in it's present form, at Wicken House, has been running for about 17 years and the leadership of the band and adoption of the name "Ged Watson Memorial Band" happened a couple of years after Ged's death. The band is now run Mr. Paul Arthur and Kate Aggett.
What does the band have planned for the future?:
The Band plan to carry on the course as there isn't really an established band like us in the area that provides opportunities for young musicians to meet and play.