Publish date: 4 December 2024

A group of NHS workers in Tameside & Glossop are striking all the right chords as the first NHS staff brass band.

In a remarkable fusion of music and medicine, the Tameside & Glossop NHS Charity has proudly launched the Tameside & Glossop NHS Charity Brass Band.

The unique ensemble was the brainchild of Lindsey Rankin, a senior clinical nurse assessor for digital health at Tameside & Glossop Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust, and is composed entirely of NHS staff members who share a passion for music alongside their dedication to healthcare.

And the band, made up of members from various departments across the Trust, are up and running in time to add a tuneful festive touch to local community events this Christmas.

Following an initial call for volunteers in October, Lindsey was inundated with interest and the band formed to play their first gig at Willow Wood Hospice’s Christmas Fair last month.

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Speaking about the formation of the band, Lindsey said: “I have played in various bands over the years and Tameside has a proud heritage of brass bands, so it seemed a natural opportunity to create something truly unique among our NHS workers.

“We have formed, rehearsed and played our first gig in such a short space of time, but it has created an amazing camaraderie and togetherness for those involved.

“It is wonderful to be able to bring joy to our communities through music and we are looking forward to adding more dates to our already busy diary!”

The band plays in aid of Tameside & Glossop NHS Charity, which supports staff, patients and their families receiving care from Tameside Hospital and in our community settings.

“This band is a testament to the talent and dedication of our NHS staff, who even during challenging times are supporting our Trust and Charity,” said Emily Burgin, charity manager at Tameside & Glossop NHS Charity.

“We couldn’t be prouder to see our colleagues unite through music, and we look forward to seeing them entertain residents in Tameside & Glossop."