I'm still quite a 'newby' to the Band having only joined last September. It's lots of fun and a great sound: it's good to be a part of such an enthusiatic group! I'm particularly enjoying the opportunity of playing in public again and learning to play some fabulous music!

'The best thing for me about the BBB is that you don't have to be an expert musician to join it, you just have to be enthusiastic and willing to learn. I think it's quite unusual in that respect - there are lots of very talented musicians in the band, but they are more than happy to inco...rporate beginners too. I'd never played any instrument before, but I could turn up and join in, in a supportive and encouraging atmosphere, and I certainly learned faster by playing with a band than I could have done with lessons. Oh yes, and they make a really cool, really loud sound, so it's great to be part of it!'

I'd never played my saxophone in a band before joining BBB and I wish I'd joined sooner! I enjoy the friendly and relaxed atmosphere where players support and encourage each other, but above all, it's great fun.

The Big Brunch Band at Cheltenham Jazz Festival 2009