Early Years

Dunston Silver Band, originally known as Dunston Temperance Band, has a colourful history which can be traced back as early as 1902. However it is thought the band was in existence long before this but documented proof is hard to find. Sometime between 1902 and 1913 the band changed its name to Dunston Silver Band. In 1913 the Band performed at Crystal Palace under the direction on Mr Alf Gale of Dunston Bank.

This is an early picture of the band reproduced by kind permission of the owners of a north east historical society web site. If anyone has any information on the origins of the band we would be very interested to know about it.

We March As Well

Apart from a period between 1939-45, when the Dunston Silver Band exchanged their uniforms for that of the Home Guard, Dunston Silver Band has had over 90 years of playing great music, during which time there has been many high points. In the sixties the band made successful tours of Italy and Switzerland with many famous names of local brass bands helping out.

Phoenix From The Ashes

In 1987 the band was reformed by the determination of Tommy Lee and Matt Bell after becoming defunct for two years. It also had a spell of sponsorship by the local Gateshead Metro Centre.

Going Places - Lets Hope So!!

Dunston Silver Band is a non-profit making concern dedicated to providing music for the community, whilst providing a facility for all brass players to enjoy the tradition and fellowship associated with the Brass Band Experience.

First Contest Win

The band came first at the Whitehaven contest, which was a first win at a proper competition. This followed on from a promising 9th place at their debut at the National Contest in 2002. The band also made a CD in the same period.