The Barnsley Youth Jazz Association supporters raised £215.47

About The Barnsley Youth Jazz Association

The Dearne Big Band was formed in 1978 for pupils of the Foulstone School by the school's music teacher Holin Hammerton. He retired in 2004 after 33 years at the School. In his continuing efforts to make music accessible to everyone Holin formed the Barnsley Youth Jazz Association. Holin passed away in 2010 but his great legacy lives on, kept alive by all those who have benefitted over the years to promote the enjoyment of music within the Barnsley Area. The organisation includes beginners brass and woodwind groups, singing groups, The Barnsley Jazz Orchestra and of course at its heart The Dearne Big Band. The band was originally known as the Dearne Youth Big Band until its name was changed in 1983 to the Dearne Big Band to reflect the fact that many within the band were no longer youth's. This is still evident today with the age range in the Band from ranging from 13 to 40 years. The Band has acted as a stepping stone for many of the members over the years both within the music industry and professional fields. Many members (both past and present) are now successful musicians either in a professional or semi-professional basis. The band has several teachers in its present line up. Funds raised on behalf of the organisation are used to fund all the bands activities to the benefit of everyone.