I'm a member of a big band started 10 yrs or so ago , and at present led by Sue Harris, who does the musical arrangements. There are about 20 or so of us, with various different instruments, Sue playing hammer dulcimer and oboe, there are 3 cellos 4-5 flutes 2-3 clarinets 3 Bb saxes, 3-4 fiddles 2 guitars, banjo concertina and percussion. Abilities range from professional to good amateur, and we tackle anything from Early one morning to French dances to simple jazz arrangements to a Souza march to Bottine Souriante tunes. We play for town carnivals and Ceidhles for parties. We've all come a long way since we were started as an offshoot of Hereford's community band Bandamonium, and Sue is always stretching us with new tunes or even complex suites -some self penned. We have made long lasting friends, and even session groups and bands as offshoots from this musical base. It works, and is one of the main pleasures of my life. You can see us all on stage in France at a twinning exchange if you Google (UK) bandamania and go down the page to Kevin's Photographs. (whoops! nearly gave my name away)