However, for Porthywaen Silver Band, times have never been better, with the band being in a strong financial position, having a strong number of players and being promoted to the second section.

According to the Chairty Commission, their main activity is educating the public in the playing and appeciation of the musical arts, in partcicular, brass band music, by the provision of tuition and public performance.

As part of this work, and the band's committments to promoting the brass band scene, a Porthywaen Silver Band Facebook page is now available for anybody who is interested in the band or the brass music scene. The page includes:

• Pictures and videos of the band
• Events
• Up-to-date information

It also allows members of the public to contact the Band and ask any questions.
To find the page, search for "Porthywaen Silver Band" on Facebook and click the "Like" button or visit the Porthywaen Silver Band website.

Our new Facebook is a great addition to our online presence allowing us to connect more easily with anybody who enjoys listening to brass band music and inform them of what's happening at Porthywaen and where we can be found.

Our website and Facebook page combined will provide fans and followers with various ways to contact us, view videos, pictures, events and band news aswell as listening to excerpts of our CDs and finding out about the history of the band.

Porthywaen Silver Band also has a Starter Group, Beginners' Band and a Youth & Training Band where players of any age, ability or simply just want to learn, with free tuition, are welcome. New players and learners are welcome at any Friday night rehearsal.

For more information, visit the band's website at www.porthywaensilverband.co.uk.