Decision details

Bandstand Band Concerts – To host extensive entertaining programmes of 17 concerts during the summer, including some Saturdays.  To maintain tradition, promote history of Folkestone and Bandstand.  This will attract new visitors. 

To provide funding of £2000 to the above project.

Reason for decision:

Audience numbers range from 125 to 400 with more than double that number passing by and stopping for some time to hear the band play.  A strong core of the audience is made up of local residents of all ages from the Third Age to families with young children, and the friends/family/members travelling with the band.  An increasing number are also coming from the Continent taking away leaflets to plan their next weekend trip.  An increasing number of bands we have sourced have some quite young players and this encourages other young people to show an interest and take part in music making.  Local businesses benefit from increased trade providing lunch/teas and drinks, including the Leas Cliff Hall. 

Maintaining the tradition of seaside resorts having summer bands playing a wide variety of music on the historic Leas Bandstand to suit all ages.  The band conductor always gives an introduction to each piece of music being played which is educational.  We promote the history of the bandstand and Folkestone during events.