Lincolnshire Hospitals Band

About Lincolnshire Hospitals Band

 PATRONS
Eric Sykes CBE, Jim Broadbent, Roy Hattersley, Dr R J Thornton
 
 
In 1975 a group of musicians from the Salvation Army toured some of the wards in the Lincoln County Hospital playing Christmas carols. This aroused an interest amongst some of the staff. After many 'Tea Break' discussions, a group of four decided that they should form a band of their own, if only to ensure that every one of the hospital wards heard carols played every year without fail. 
 
Fortunately one of the four was a capable musician, Fred Capewell, and he undertook the daunting task of writing the music and teaching the others to play it. The others, and friends, raised money to purchase instruments and music, and early in 1976 rehersals began in a room at the Lincoln Central Methodist Church and The Lincoln Central Band was born. Within a very short time the band grew in numbers, including some staff from the local prison, a rehearsal room was found at the hospital, and permission was granted for use of the Hospitals name. 
 
  From such humble beginnings with no instruments, no music, and no money a unique fully-fledged brass band has evolved. Although not a contesting band we enjoy a high reputation and are much in demand in the East MIdlands area.
 
 
DIRECTOR OF MUSIC - SUSAN SHORLAND ARCM, LTCL
  DOM

Susan was born in Devon and began studying music at the age of 10. She was introduced to brass playing by the Salvation Army and by the age of 17 was the principal Euphonium for the Woman’s Royal Army Corps Staff Band where she was regularly featured as a soloist in concerts and on recordings, including a live performance on BBC’s Friday Night is Music Night.

In 1986 she transferred to French Horn and subsequently joined the Royal Air Force serving with the Central Band, winning the Valentine soloist award in 1992. She is currently the Principal Horn of the Band of the Royal Air Force College in Lincolnshire holding the rank of Chief Technician (Specialist Performer). She has travelled the world extensively to places such as USA, Singapore, Europe and Hong Kong, performing at many highly prestigious venues including many British Embassies and Royal Residences. Her most recent being in charge of the music at the Wings Graduation of HRH Prince William.

Susan added conducting to her skills with the Salvation Army in Guildford where she held the position of Songster leader for several years.  In 1995 she qualified as a Bandmaster in Military Music.

Since her move to Lincolnshire in 1997, along with her RAF duties, she is the Principal Horn for Boston Sinfonia, a semi-professional local orchestra.

Susan is a competent pianist and has worked as an accompanist for various choral societies and choirs. She also teaches piano and Brass in the local area.

Susan was appointed Director of Music of the Lincolnshire Hospitals Band in February 2009.
 
Chairman: Tracey Robson

Tracey has played in the band for 16 years. She has served on the Band’s Committee for 12 years, and is now the current Chairman. She also rehearses the Junior Band which she hopes to expand in 2009.

 

Secretary: Bill Tickner
 
Engagement Coordinator: Peter Vause 
Tel No 01522 827768
Peter has been associated with the Band for 5 years and has a passion for the band and fundraising but admits to little knowledge of music!. He is responsible for the booking of all engagements and ensuring all the needs of the players are met. 
 
 JUNIOR BAND
In addition to the main band, we also encourage more younger players and have a junior band, details of which can be found here.
 
RECORDINGS
Details of the band's recordings can be found here.


LHB Crest
 
Member of the British Federation of Brass Bands,
North East Midlands Brass Band Association and
Music Link


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