The Wind Ensemble started in May 2024. After several meetings with the Committee of the Pembrokeshire Group of the U3A, it was agreed we could form a musical ensemble. We decided to call it an Ensemble rather than a band because we believed that it would consist of approximately 6 or 7, at the most 8, players. At the first meeting we had approx 7 players but they all knew someone else who would be interested in joining and over the next few weeks we grew to a small band of 16 players, we currently number 20 players.
We cover a wide range of abilities and experience, from one person who suddenly explained that this would be her first ever public performance, to several retired Peripatetic Music teachers from Pembrokeshire Music Services.
We have most instruments of a wind band, we do however struggle to fill the Trumpet and Trombone stands. Luckily we have several people who, although unable to commit full time, are happy to fill those stands when we perform.
We try to play various styles of music, we tend to play things that will go down well with the audiences we play for. We were asked to provide the Musical support for Haverfordwest Town Council civic events and we are happy to continue in that role for 2026. This will see us playing for the Mayor Making ceremony, Beating the Bounds and other such events.
2025, saw us providing the music at the V.E. Day 80^th Celebrations during the Sunset ceremony as well as a concert in St Mary’s church in the town. We have to stand back and take a deep breath as we remind ourselves that all of this had taken place in under a year.
We are always open to new players and hope they find a friendly relaxed musical experience. Although we do try to keep up a reasonable standard, we don’t grade people or refuse people who may struggle when first joining us. Over time you will find the many very experienced players will help and advise you as we encourage you.
We ask that you attend as much as possible, but we are all retired and many take this freedom to visit family and friends all over the world. If you are interested just turn up at Merlin’s Bridge Community Hall, Thursdays between 2 pm – 4 pm, with a tea and biscuits break at 3 pm. This time to chat and get to know each other is as important as the rehearsal!


Colin Cunliffe - 07971 846290