After establishing similar amateur big bands in Hertfordshire and Bristol, drummer Richard Fairs has now started a new community big band with weekly rehearsals being held at the Village Hall in Hamstead Marshall on Monday evenings from 7.45pm.

We still need key players to complete our ensemble.

"Playing in any ensemble is not only a richly rewarding musical experience that should be musically challenging but also be a sociable and fun opportunity. My most recent community big band project was in Bristol, started some 20 years ago and is still thriving. I take huge pleasure seeing an initial group of individuals, with varying musical experience and skills come together with the collective aim to not only improve their individual musicianship but create a dynamic ensemble and to work towards it becoming the best it can be. The friendships and the memories that follow can make such ensembles a highlight of anyone's week."

If you are between 16 and 106, play a baritone sax or any type of trumpet, trombone, keyboard or guitar and fancy being part of this project from the outset get in touch to register your interest. We have had responses from sax players to achieve your required complement. If you do play sax and want to be involved do let us know though.

Previous experience of playing in a big band, or being able to improvise is not required, although an ability to read music and play to a reasonable standard is necessary to gain maximum benefit.

We would especially love to hear from you if you play:

• Baritone Sax

• Trumpet

• Trombone

• Keyboard / Piano

• Guitar