The Band is a community band based in Dorset, England and was formed in 1989 as the Talbot Corps of Drums. We reformed as the Bournemouth Youth Marching Band in September 2013.  Our Band motto is Amici Per Musicam which means Friends Through Music. This year is our 35th anniversary. 

We are proud that the Band, unlike many music organisations and charities, is entirely volunteer led, run and supported. In November 2023 we were honoured to be awarded the King's Award for Voluntary Service (equivalent to an MBE). We are the first youth marching band in the UK and the only band in the south to receive the prestigious King's Award. 

BYMB is a traditional (meaning in a UK military style) youth marching band. We have the full range of brass and woodwind instruments plus percussion, bell lyres (glockenspiels) and bugles. 

We have a multi functional capability and perform in concerts, parades, arena displays, carnivals and ceremonials.

The Band is a registered charity. Our Trustees have well over 150 years of experience in running youth bands and youth groups. The Band is led by a small Management Team.

We meet every Wednesday evening from 6.30pm to 9pm usually at the Bourne Academy in Hadow Rd, Bournemouth, BH10 5HS and once a month in Poole during a Sunday afternoon.

We have our own BYMB Academy Programme to train beginners in playing an instrument, band drill and understanding music. Beginners start with the Band on cornet, clarinet, percussion or bell lyre unless they already own an instrument themselves.

The Band uses brass, woodwind and percussion instruments to play great music from a wide range of genres. We are proud of our traditional British military style. Our repertoire is regularly refreshed for our various events throughout the year.

We provide a safe meeting place, instruments, music, uniform, tuition, training and the performance schedule all for just £10 per month.

The Band is primarily for children and young people aged 8 to 18. Many new recruits join the Band with little or no previous musical knowledge or experience. We teach them everything they need to know in a friendly and supportive environment. Adult members in the Band support the BYMB Academy and the young members in their musical journey.

In addition to the Band we provide all the activities and facilities expected of a youth organisation. This makes us unique in the local area. Our youth members are at the heart of everything we do. 

We also have our supporters group called the Friends of BYMB. They are the parents and families of Band Members. The Friends help the Band by fundraising, chaperoning, helping and supporting us in so many ways.

It's not all about the music. Recent social events have included an Awards Evening, Games Night, Ten Pin Bowling, Pantomime, Concert trip, a Water Park and a Beach Party.

We are always very grateful for the support and opportunities offered to the Band by the Royal Corps of Army Music and the Royal Marines Band Service. During the last few years four of our members have been accepted as professional musicians into military bands. We can help you turn a hobby with us into a career.