Skills for Life

BYMB is much more than just a marching band.

We help young people develop far more than musical ability. Members build a wide range of Skills for Life that are valuable in education, employment and everyday life.

Members from the Band have gone on to serve in the Army, Royal Marines, RAF, Police, Ambulance and other public services as well as care, administration, retail, hospitality, customer service and industry.

Personal Skills

• Self-confidence through performing in public.

• Resilience by learning from mistakes and continuing to improve.

• Self-discipline through regular practice and commitment.

• Responsibility by caring for instruments, uniforms, and equipment.

• Time management by balancing rehearsals, performances, school, and home life.

• Independence when attending camps, tours and events.

Teamwork Skills

• Communication with fellow band members and leaders.

• Cooperation to achieve a shared performance standard.

• Trust in others during marching formations and musical performances.

• Respect for people of different ages, abilities, and backgrounds.

• Leadership through mentoring younger members or leading sections.

• Following instructions accurately while understanding the bigger picture.

Musical Skills

• Reading and interpreting music.

• Listening carefully to others while playing.

• Developing rhythm and timing.

• Improving concentration and memory.

• Performing under pressure.

• Understanding musical expression and dynamics.

Practical Skills

• Organisation and preparation.

• Problem-solving when things don't go to plan.

• Adaptability to different venues, weather and performance conditions.

• Attention to detail in drill, uniform and musical accuracy.

• Decision-making in changing situations.

Physical Skills

• Coordination between movement and playing.

• Good posture and body awareness.

• Fitness and stamina.

• Spatial awareness when marching in formations.

• Balance and precision of movement.

Social Skills

• Making lifelong friendships.

• Working with people from different backgrounds.

• Building confidence speaking to new people.

• Supporting and encouraging others.

• Becoming part of a community with shared goals.

Employability Skills

Many employers value the qualities developed through playing in BYMB including:

• Reliability

• Commitment

• Punctuality

• Teamwork

• Leadership

• Communication

• Confidence

• Adaptability

• Work ethic

• Goal setting

Character Development

We also help develop strong personal values:

• Pride in achievement

• Loyalty

• Perseverance

• Integrity

• Respect

• Accountability

• Honesty

• Service to the community

• Pride in representing our organisation

• Confidence to perform in challenging situations

In Bournemouth Youth Marching Band these skills are learned naturally through rehearsals, performances, camps, tours, parades, concerts and community events. 

Members gain practical experience that extends well beyond music, preparing them for education, employment, volunteering and adult life. 

Many former members find that the confidence, discipline, teamwork and leadership they developed in the Band continues to benefit them for many years afterwards.