About Us

About the Band

The Bournemouth Youth Marching Band is a vibrant and dynamic youth marching band based in Dorset. Established in 1989 as the Talbot Corps of Drums, it was reformed as BYMB in 2013. The Band is a registered charity and is known for its traditional British military style, featuring a full range of brass, woodwind, percussion, bell lyres (glockenspiels) and bugles.

BYMB is one of the largest and most successful youth marching bands in the South and South West of England. The Band performs in a variety of events, including concerts, band tattoos, arena displays, carnivals, parades, and ceremonials. Our repertoire spans a wide range of genres, from classical and traditional marches to film, show, and pop music.

Rehearsals take place every Wednesday evening from 6:30pm to 9pm at Kinson Community Centre in Pelhams Park, and once a month on a Sunday afternoon in Poole. The Band is open to young people aged 8 to 18, and no prior musical or marching experience is required to join. BYMB provides all the necessary instruments, uniforms, music, training and the performance opportunities.

The Band's core values are musicianship, discipline, teamwork, challenge, reliability, courage and confidence. We offer a supportive environment where young musicians can develop their skills and gain valuable life experiences. The Band also have their Academy Programme for beginners music lessons covering instrumental tuition, music theory and band drill.

BYMB is volunteer-led, run, and supported with a strong emphasis on community involvement. The Band has received several accolades, including the prestigious King’s Award for Voluntary Service in November 2023. The motto of the Band, "Amici Per Musicam" means "Friends Through Music" reflecting the camaraderie and sense of belonging that our members experience.

Overall, BYMB is more than just a band; it's a community that fosters musical talent, personal growth and lifelong friendships.

🎺Traditional Style – BYMB is a traditional youth marching band based in Dorset, performing in a classic military style.

🪈Versatile Performances – We play in concerts, band tattoos, arena displays, carnivals, parades, and ceremonial events.

🎺Wide Musical Range – Our repertoire includes military marches, classical pieces, pop music and film scores.

🥁Inclusive Membership – The Band is open to young musicians of all skill levels, with no prior experience required, we just need a willingness to learn and practice.

🎵Training Academy – We offer instrumental tuition, music theory and marching drill for beginners.

🎶Community Engagement – The Band performs across the UK and sometimes internationally whilst also fostering a strong local presence.

🎹Volunteer-Led – BYMB is entirely led, run and supported by volunteers, with a dedicated support group known as the Friends of BYMB.

🎼Prestigious Recognition – Awarded the prestigious King’s Award for Voluntary Service, equivalent to an MBE, in 2023.

🪇Career Opportunities – We have strong links to the Royal Corps of Army Music and the Royal Marines Band Service. Provides pathways for young musicians, including potential careers in the Armed Forces.

🎺Band Motto – Amici Per Musicam – meaning Friends Through Music, emphasizing our camaraderie and teamwork.