About Us
Our Story
The band's roots are drawn from a small group of Herne Bay musicians who used to rehearse in a church hall just for fun. At that time, the group didn't have a conductor and began playing after being ‘counted in’ by our Chairman, Andrew Stringer.
The band properly formed in 1991 under the baton of Paul Valentine. With his musical background he endeavoured to find musicians in the local area to join the band in its infant stages. At the time, the band was known as ‘The Coastal Blowers', and with a new conductor came a new name. After some discussion the name ‘Kent Coastal Concert Band’ was agreed signifying that the group was composed of members from all over the Kent County. This is still true today with many travelling far and wide for rehearsals and concerts, although the nucleus still originates from Herne Bay, Whitstable and Thanet.
The band performed its first concert after about two and a half years at Christmas in the church hall that it still rehearses in today. We now perform regular concerts at venues all over the county, including bandstands, festivals and charity events. Our annual Christmas Concert is our biggest and most successful event which is held at the Kings Hall, Herne Bay, where several hundred members of the public are entertained each year. The band is always keen to perform at new venues and anyone interested in booking us can contact us through this website.
In 1992, there were only 10 to 15 players but the band has now grown to approximately 50 regular members. We are proud that we have musicians of all ages, from school children to retired people from all walks of life. The band aims to perform concerts of a high standard and is now regarded as one of the most successful and able bands in the area.
Join Our Musical Journey
Playing a varied repertoire, we offer a musical programme to suit the taste of a wide audience. We often have vacancies for new members, and our current vacancies can be seen on the 'Vacancies' page.
We are funded by concert proceeds and a £1 weekly subscription from members in order to cover the cost of new music, equipment and rehearsal hall hire. We wear smart green uniforms, consisting of waistcoats and ties adorned with the band logo which have been tailor-made to give our group a unique identifier.
A fun-filled family atmosphere is our aim at KCCB, so if you fancy being part of our story then do contact us - we look forward to hearing from you!
It's all for charity
Each year, the band performs a concert for charity. This could be an organised event to raise funds for another cause, for example a school, a church, or a local charity. Or it could be a concert organised by the band to raise funds for a specific charity.
Be remembered
Having enjoyed our concerts over the years, a number of members in the audience have asked us how they can help to support the band. One way is to keep coming to our concerts, but hopefully that’s a given.
Another way which is becoming popular is to donate a piece of music to the band. This is marked with the donors name, and announced at all performances, so that the donation is always remembered.
Thanks to all those who have donated a piece!
