History of the Band
Lincoln District Scout Band grew out of an idea of John Powis. John was Assistant District Commissioner (Scouts) in Lincoln District during the 1970s. The band formed in 1977 with considerable help from the Lincoln Poachers Band. At first, we paraded with them - until our band became strong enough to stand alone.
From 1977 to 1982, Arthur Makin served as Bandleader and developed the band.
From 1982 to 2001, Jillian Webb took over leadership of the band - serving in this position for 19 years, until November 2001. Although she chose to step down from overall leadership, Jill continues her involvement as assistant bandmaster and Management Committee member.
From November 2001, the band was led and directed by Allister Garrod became Bandmaster. It was during Allister's time that Lincoln District Scout Band achieved the status of becoming a CLASS 'A' Band. This means that improvements in skill and musicianship led to the band being recognised as A top class band with a wide experience and membership. Such a band would have a wide and varied repertoire. A band competing in the top class of a nationally recognised youth band league may qualify for this grading.) Al retired from the band in July 2005.
In August 2005 Dave Jackson became Bandmaster, following a distinguished career as a military musician. Dave ability to play a plethora of different brass and woodwind instruments enables him to solve technical problems quickly and give youngsters the advice and guidance they need to help them reach their full musical potential.
Lincoln District Scout Band has developed considerably, both in ability and style, from those early days as a Drum and Bugle Corps. The Band now consists of a traditional British military marching band line-up of marching bells (glockenspiel), snare drums, bass drum, multi-toms, tenor drums, cymbals, trumpets, trombones, saxophones, clarinets, horns in Bb and horns in F.
In 1985 we performed for Diana, Princess of Wales, at the opening of a new wing of Lincoln's County Hospital.
In October 2002 the band were honored to receive the gift of a Lincoln City Flag. This was presented by the Mayor of Lincoln in recognition of the valuable work that Lincoln District Scout Band does in promoting the City, both when we perform in the UK, and during our Tours of other European countries. We are not aware of any other marching band being given the right to parade the Lincoln City Flag.
We also have a role as ambassadors in promoting the beautiful City of Lincoln and the County of Lincolnshire to attract tourists and visitors to our area. Both City and County are rich in historical and cultural places of interest. Lincoln Cathedral is one of the most magnificent in the country. The Cathedral is set on a hill overlooking the City, close to the Bishops Palace, Lincoln Castle and excellent shopping areas.
The help and support from our many individual friends is something we value tremendously. The band has also benefited from the continued support and friendship of C.O.L.A. (Children of Lincoln Activities Association), for which we are very grateful.
Over the years, one of our "secrets of success" is the dedication, hard work, enthusiasm and example of our Bandmasters and Chairmen.
The band is much sought after and plays at a variety of events throughout the year, as can be seen from our Performance Diaries.
