A BIG band is raring to get back into action.

The Harry Goulden Big Band usually plays at Pierpoint and Bryant Club in Latchford in the concert room, but until recently they weren’t able to for two years.

However, after many catch-ups on Zoom and having dusted off the cobwebs by practising, the big band can be enjoyed once again.

“It will be lovely to be back,” said David Mather, who runs the club.

“We didn’t want to invite an audience straight away because we need to get used to it again.

“The club has been great and that is renovated. They were happy for us to come back.

“We feel as if we are back up to speed.

“It will be really exciting. We have really good fun and we have a laugh."

The band – which plays Woody Herman, Count Basie, Benny Goodman, Duke Ellington, Ted Heath, Glenn Millar and music from modern composers – comprises four trumpets, four trombones, five saxophones, a piano, bass and drums.

 

The Harry Goulden Big Band

The Harry Goulden Big Band

 

During the two years they were out of action, David, of Burtonwood, set up weekly Zoom calls to keep the band together.

David added: “I was worried that people would lose interest – including me to be honest.

“I decided to get us to Zoom every week and it was like being in a pub. It would have been hard trying to play together live on Zoom because of the delay so you can’t keep in time.

“We weren’t interested in recording it all and editing it together, we just wanted a natter and a joke together to keep everyone’s interest."

David – who grew up in Haydock – had been creating the programmes for the band for 30 years before joining as a saxophonist four years ago.

“We hope to attract new listeners," continued David.

“Our musicians travel from all over the north west every week and even from the Peak District.

“And most musicians are ex-professional players and session musicians who have played the likes of BBC, ITV, Syd Lawrence Orchestra and more.”

Admission is free and the band returns on Thursday, March 31.

Going forward, the band plays every Thursday between 8.15pm – 10pm.