BUDDING musicians with a West Devon band can now blow their own trumpets, thanks to a recent cash boost.
The grass-roots charity, Devon Community Foundation, has awarded Tavistock?s Stannary Brass Band a Local Network Fund grant of £632 to buy some much-needed new instruments.
The band has three groups, beginners, youth and seniors with a total of 86 members and a growing waiting list of newcomers. Established in 1995, the band has flourished over the years.
Musical director Peter Jones said: ?This money has given us a fantastic boost, we have been able to purchase two new cornets and percussion instruments. Due to our success over the years we are always in need of new instruments for our growing number of members.?
Peter said the beginners? band has 21 members, 17 of whom are young people, with another 12 on the waiting list.
He said: ?The new instruments have enabled two of our beginners? band members to join the full youth band and will now have played at our senior band summer concert on June 19.
?It?s great to see young people join the group and learn to play an instrument and then perform for a real audience.
As well as musical skills they learn a lot from other members and it builds their confidence and self-esteem.?
The grants are part of a drive by the Community Foundation to help disadvantaged and disabled children in rural areas by channelling over £700,000 from the government?s ?Local Network Fund for Children and Young People? into local voluntary and community groups who are tackling problems on the ground.
Melanie McLoughlin, director of Devon Community Foundation, said: ?These funds are a much needed lifeline for rural groups and their communities. The view from outside often paints a picture of rural life as being idyllic, when in reality, these areas are isolated and excluded.
?The grants we award range from £250 to £7,000 and in some cases a relatively small amount of money can bring about a big change.?
Anyone wishing to apply for a grant from the Local Network Fund should call 0845 113 0161 and ask for an application pack, or call the Foundation on 01884 235887 for further information.
If you are interested in finding out more about the Stannary Brass Band please contact the secretary on 01822 615652 for more information.