Dunston Silver Band is a 28-piece brass band based in Dunston, in Gateshead. We perform regularly at concerts across the North East, including community events such as Dunston Carnival, Ponteland Beer Festival, Newcastle Pride and Durham Miners’ Gala. We currently compete in the First Section.

We have a varied programme, ranging from traditional brass band arrangements to modern pop and film tunes, to classical orchestral arrangements. We are very versatile, playing at events including marches, park bandstand entertainment, evening concerts, weddings, and heritage and community events. We can also perform as a quintet or small band if requested.

Originally known as Dunston Temperance Band, the band, has a colourful history which can be traced back as early as 1902. However it is thought the band was in existence long before this but documented proof is hard to find. Sometime between 1902 and 1913 the band changed its name to Dunston Silver Band. In 1913 the Band performed at Crystal Palace under the direction on Mr Alf Gale of Dunston Bank.

Apart from a period between 1939-45, when the Dunston Silver Band exchanged their uniforms for that of the Home Guard, Dunston Silver Band has had over 90 years of playing great music, during which time there has been many high points. In the sixties the band made successful tours of Italy and Switzerland with many famous names of local brass bands helping out.

In 1987 the band was reformed by the determination of Tommy Lee and Matt Bell after becoming defunct for two years. It also had a spell of sponsorship by the local Gateshead Metro Centre.

More recently the band has gained promotion to the North of England 1st Section and continues to grow and improve with Dunston Silver Youth Band forming an integral part of our community.