York Railway Institute Band is a constituent part of York RI - a Charitable Incorporated Organisation, registration number 1165513. We are a contesting band, competing in the Championship Section in the North of England Region of the National Brass Band Championships of Great Britain.
York Railway Institute Band was founded by Noah Bruce, its leader for 31 years. Originally named Chaucer Street Mission Band and later known as York and District Mission and Temperance Band, York Excelsior Brass Band, York Home Guard Band and Ebor Excelsior Silver Band, it took on the name of York Railway Institute Band after allying itself to York Railway Institute following a merger of the Ebor Excelsior Silver Band and the York City Band in 1952 - the majority of members being railwaymen at that time. The current band can therefore claim a heritage going back to 1883!
It was the first band in the area to achieve 'Championship Section' status, competing at the very highest level for many years. Many outstanding players have started their careers at the 'Institute' and have gone on to play for the very best bands and orchestras in the world.
York Railway Institute Band has established a reputation for entertaining the public with its lively concert performances, and regularly appears at theatres, halls and concert venues all over the UK.
These are no longer available but included as part of the Band's history.
Conductor: Derek Warley
Conductor: Derek Warley
Conductor: Ted Pratt
With Robert Hartley (Piano)