Watch: Barrhead Burgh Band's triumphant relaunch

Dozens of musicians answered the call to attend the group’s relaunch at Bourock Parish Church.

Some of those who went along hadn’t played in several decades but that did not stop them hitting all the right notes.

A video of the group’s rousing performance of Eye of the Tiger, under the direction of new conductor Alan Friel, has since proved to be a hit on social media.

The turnout was music to the ears of chairman Tom Allan after the pandemic caused numbers to dwindle and prompted a break to promote the band ahead of a fresh start.

He told the Barrhead News: “It was exceptionally well attended and a good debut.

“To get back and to listen to a nigh on full band playing was really uplifting. If it hadn’t worked, the band would have folded. There are no ifs, buts or maybes about it.”

The band with new conductor Alan Friel

Before the pandemic struck, the band had last took centre stage at the Scottish Championships back in March 2020 but, for the foreseeable future, will be non-contesting.

A return to contesting will, however, be considered at the end of this year if all continues to go well.

Tom has also been keen to get anyone who was previously part of the Levern Valley Community Brass Band involved, so he was heartened to see two former members come along to the relaunch.

He added: “The relaunch was great but we have to build on that now. Hopefully, these numbers will keep coming back.

“We are still on the lookout for players and will not turn anyone away.”

The band enjoyed a triumphant return

Any brass or percussion players who are interested in joining the band can find out more by sending an email to tom.allan42@gmail.com.

Alternatively, go online at facebook.com/Barrheadburghband.