Marches and melodies filled the air when a brass band played for residents at a Seaton care home. East Devon Daytime Band played a range of brass band music from Handel’s March and Highland Farewell to Bring Me Sunshine for residents at The Seaton.
The Southern Healthcare care home hosted seven musicians from the brass band as part of their weekly entertainment provision.
Administration manager, Kelly Boweren enthused:
“We were treated to the sounds of the East Devon Daytime Band. They are normally a 14-piece band, but we could only fit seven in the garden. Our residents played along with their tambourines and maracas.”
The band, which was formed in 2017, has members from all over East Devon and they perform during daytime hours. East Devon Daytime Band Chairman, Trevor Heynes, explained: “We attract players from areas including Dalwood, Seaton, Starcross, and Sidmouth. Depending on the size of the venue, we can bring along between four and 16 players. We play during the day, which is unusual for a brass band.”
He added: “Our players are keen to play in care homes because one of our missions is to take brass music to people who cannot go out to live venues.”
East Devon Daytime Band play at venues across Devon, including annual Christmas and Easter concerts at Exeter’s IKEA store.
Trevor formed the band because he was inspired by a similar band playing in the Bristol area which provided brass players the opportunity to play during daylight hours. Trevor said: “We are a friendly, enthusiastic, and supportive group who have weekly rehearsals. Many of our team are active players with other local brass and wind bands throughout the East Devon and Exeter areas.”