Astley Training Band rehearse every Thursday night during term time in the Astley Christian Fellowship, Manchester Road from 6pm-6.45pm.

• Players of any standard, whether on brass or percussion, are more than welcome.

•  This ensemble is available to anyone of school age.

• The band has a number of instruments available to loan free of charge.

• Membership is £5 per month.

If you'd like to join in this great organisation, please do come along!

Samantha has been playing a brass instrument since the age of 4, she began on the Tenor Horn then progressed onto the Euphonium and finally at the age of 10 she moved onto the Tuba. At the age of 11 she was accepted to study at the Junior Royal Northern College of Music and attended the school every Saturday where she received a variety of academic and practical lessons. In her last year at the JRNCM, Sam was awarded the Director’s Award for Outstanding Contribution and Dedication. Sam was also a member of the National Children’s Orchestra, National Children’s Brass Band and National Youth Wind Ensemble. 

In 2011 Sam was awarded The John Fewkes (Leicestershire) Instrumental Scholarship to study a degree in performance at the Royal Northern College of Music. During this time, she performed in many concerts and gained invaluable experience. Sam has also played with a number of the country’s leading brass bands, including a 5 year stretch at the Foden’s Band. Sam has also performed with the Halle Orchestra, Opera North and Welsh National Opera. 

Sam currently teaches in a number of local primary schools across Salford and Bolton working with the family business, Minshall Music. Sam delivers music curriculum lessons, full class brass lessons, individual/small group brass lessons, school bands and school choirs. She teaches at 5 different schools and each year takes ensembles to perform at the ‘National Festival of Music for Youth’ in Rochdale and Birmingham or ‘Young Voices’ at the Manchester Arena. Sam is currently musical director of Astley Training Band.

During the school holidays Sam works for the National Children’s Orchestra as part of the house staff team, she ensures the children have the best possible time away from home making music and having fun!

Learning to play a musical instrument has so many benefits – whether it’s building your confidence, enhancing your memory or widening your social circle. 

www.classicfm.com/discover-music/reasons-to-play-a-musical-instrument/