Description

Marshside Brass Band is based at the northern end of Southport in the old fishing community of Marshside. The band owes its existence to the 19th century influences of the Temperance movement and to the spirit of the local shrimpers and fishers; indeed it was this community who originally, and for many years, made up the bulk of its players.

The exact date of the band's foundation remains unclear. The earliest known reference to Marshside Brass Band is in an 1892 edition of the Southport Visitor that heralds the opening of the northern section of Southport’s Marine Lake, where the band lead a procession of local traders. However, the band may in fact be older than this and possibly even dates back to 1864, the year the Temperance Hall was opened, which was then, and is still the band’s home. Over the years the Marshside Band has had several other names in its title including 'Teetotal', 'Total Abstinence' and 'Temperance', much to the amusement of some of the present players.

Marshside Brass Band’s most famous member is undoubtedly William Rimmer (1862-1936). A prolific composer (including 106 marches), arranger, conductor and teacher, Rimmer had a considerable influence on Marshside Brass Band by conducting the band and by teaching many of the original players. Bands throughout the world still play his music and it is an honour for our band to have been associated with this great man.

The outward sprawl of Southport and the decline of the Shrimping Industry have altered Marshside beyond recognition. Houses have replaced the fields where horses grazed and shrimpers tended their allotments. In spite of these changes Marshside Brass Band is still an integral part of the local community and continues to rehearse at the Temperance Hall on Shellfield Road. Whilst the band now attracts players from well beyond the Southport area, several are the latest in a long line of generations that stretch back to those original members; one player is a descendant of William Rimmer himself.

Description

Just a few minutes out of the Southport centre in Churchtown is Southport's Botanic Gardens.

Originally opened in 1874, these Victorian gardens are bursting with floral splendour and colourful displays.

Winding through the park is the garden’s lake and a multitude of pathways.

There is an aviary, gift shop and café too, so there’s plenty to see and explore.

Concerts take place on the band lawn.

Botanic Road,

Southport,

Merseyside,

England,

PR9 7NE.