The Bay of Colwyn area can now boast its own band with the establishment of the Rydal Penrhos Community Wind Band.

It’s been heart-warming to see the Rydal Penrhos Community Wind Band going from strength to strength since its inception. The initial integration period has been hugely successful relating to the group, which was formed soon after Welsh Government restrictions were eased regarding COVID-19.

The band is open to current pupils, alumni, parents, staff and local musicians from across Colwyn Bay and the wider region. A true example of school and community spirit that everyone at Rydal Penrhos is enormously proud of.

Players of all brass, woodwind and percussion instruments are welcome to attend rehearsal sessions which are held on Wednesday evenings from 7-8.30pm in the Rick Maple Drama Studio on Combermere Road, Colwyn Bay. 

There is no charge and instruments are available to borrow if required by anyone wishing to attend.

The Community Wind Band is led by musician, ex-Rydal Penrhos parent and current school Governor, Clive Wolfendale.

He explained: “The repertoire for newly-formed wind band is vast and highly flexible, encompassing bespoke, classical and popular arrangements.

“It is possible to accommodate players of a ‘Grade 3’ standard (or equivalent) alongside more experienced musicians. It’s been many years since Colwyn Bay had its own brand, so we are delighted to be bringing back an instrumental ensemble to the area.”

Lucy Davies, who is Deputy Principal and Head of Rydal Penrhos Prep, praised the early efforts of the Community Wind Band, highlighting the close connection between the school and the area it calls home.

“Within the emerging freedoms from lockdown restrictions, there is an appetite to re-engage with music-making amongst regular practitioners and those who have not picked up an instrument for some time,” she added.

“This is something that Rydal Penrhos recognises and the Community Wind Band is another fine example of how the school is always looking to engage with the area in which it is located.”