The original band was formed at 1st Hook Scouts in 1938. However, the band has been known as 1st Hook Scout & Guide Band since the Guide Company joined them in 1984.

They are what is known as a 'traditional style' marching band, and meet for just two and a half hours once a week.

The young trainees join from age 9, and progress through drill and instrument instruction before becoming a full member of the senior band.

The band uses a full range of military instrumentation, and their music library has grown over the years to include everything from well known military marches to full concert band arrangements of both popular music and film themes. As a result they are able to perform as both a concert band and a marching band, depending on the requirements of an event.

They have been fortunate to play at many prestigious engagements over the years, including the Lord Mayor of London’s Parade and The Royal Tournament.
They have also taken part in several events and competitions at London’s Royal Albert Hall, and in 1998 they were chosen to play at the 50th Anniversary of The World Scout Foundation at The Natural History Museum in London. The guest list for this included HM The Queen and HRH Duke of Edinburgh, as well a number of Kings and Queens from other countries in Europe.

The band has also travelled abroad to play at various locations, including Barcelona, Legoland in Denmark, The Menin Gate in Ypres, Euro Disney Resort in Paris, and more recently Cascais in Portugal.

As you will read on the other pages, the Band is always busy, taking part in both local events and other activities further afield.

 

Check out the 'Where to see us' page for an up to date list of events where you can see the band over the next few months.