New brass band book out for Christmas!

The rich heritage of the band movement in the east of Scotland has been chronicled with the release of a new book celebrating brass bands in Midlothian. Entitled the History of Midlothian's Brass Bands, the book has been written by Alan McLaren, honorary vice president of the Scottish Brass Band Association (SBBA) and someone who has enjoyed lengthy involvement at Newtongrange Silver Band.

The book explores the region's bands and the personalities behind them, enhanced with images of those who played a key role in the success of brass bands in Midlothian and the wider Scottish banding scene. Its publication comes after Alan undertook years of research, drawing on a wide variety of sources including newspapers and journals, library sources and various extensive private collections of brass band memorabilia.

Alan commented: "The research for the book was conducted over many years and you could certainly describe it as a labour of love. Hopefully it fully and accurately records the important role which brass bands have played and continue to play in the communities throughout Midlothian." Alan continued: "I would also express the wish that this book might encourage others around Scotland to undertake similar projects and ensure the history and heritage of Scottish banding generally is fully documented and recorded."

The History of Midlothian's Brass Bands is available to buy at a cost of £15. Anyone looking to purchase the book should enquire at SBBA exhibition stands or contact Peter Fraser: peterfraser@sbba.org.uk

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