An Isle of Wight brass band is getting ‘down with the kids’ to reach out to a younger audience.
Abbey Brass is partnering with the IW Youth Trust to stage a special concert featuring music popular with youngsters.
The performance – at Castlehold Baptist Church, Newport, on Sunday 17th May 2026 – comprises music entirely from children’s films, TV shows and musicals. Band members will also be dressing up as characters featured in the concert items.
Concert details and musical line-up
Phillip Littlemore, the band’s musical director, said,
“This is the first time we have put on a special concert for families and children and we hope to encourage and inspire a new generation of youngsters interested in brass bands. There will be some older favourites including music from Harry Potter, The Lion King, Toy Story, Thunderbirds and Wallace & Gromit.
“We will also play music from more contemporary children’s shows such as Stranger Things, Wednesday and even try our hand at music from KPop Demon Hunters!”
Promoting music for wellbeing
Jo Dare, CEO of the Isle of Wight Youth Trust which supports young people with youth-led wellbeing and therapeutic care, said,
“Our own 2025 census of 1,760 children and young people on the Island showed that over 43% of the participants turn to music when things are hard.
“Similar national studies have shown that engaging with music – playing, learning, or listening – is good for their mental health and wellbeing.
“As a charity we are delighted that Abbey Brass is introducing families to live music with and hope that everyone enjoys the afternoon of favourite theme tunes.”
The concert takes place at Castlehold Baptist Church, Newport, on Sunday 17th May 2026. It begins at 2.30pm and admission is free, with a retiring collection in aid of the Youth Trust, church and band.
News shared by Simon on behalf of Abbey Brass. Ed
