| The exact date origin of the band is unknown, but a local newspaper
cutting of 1896 reported the Hilgay Brass Band attending a function
during that year. It is thought that the band was formed by a few men
working on the land for the local farmers. The Rev Canon Beechy seems
to be a prominent name in the early days of 1896-1899 also the Rev G
MacDermott. At that time the band was known as the Hilgay Brass Band.
In the early 1900's the band was to be renamed as Hilgay Excelsior Band
and after a rest between 1961-1972 the band was reformed as Hilgay Silver
Band. They are possible one of the first bands to join the EABBA. There
were several members of families in the Band at that time, and that
is still the case today - the same families, generations later. The band managed to keep going during the second World War, although
several members were called away on active service. Band masters after
the war were Mr D Cox, Mr Parsonage and Mr W Alcock. Mr Long from Downham
Market took over in the 1930's and his son Ben, recalls the band playing
at Wimbotsham for a steeplechase meeting in 1920 and also at the Dedication
of the War Memorial in Downham Market in 1921. The band also lead parades
in Downham Market and Swaffham on Hospital Sunday and we have photographs
showing these events. During the 1960's interest declined and the band was unable to carry
on, the equipment was stored away and in 1972 a public meeting was called
to decide the fate of the bands property, several past members attended,
together with enthusiastic youngsters from the village it was decided
to reform the band. Lots of fund raising followed and during the next
two years a full set of uniforms had been brought, instruments repaired
or replaced and plans put forward for a new band room. Band practices
took place at the village school until 1979 when a Band Room was erected
in the centre of the village. Many engagements followed - Concerts,
Fetes, etc. There was much fundraising to ensure the upkeep of the premises,
uniforms, music, et al. The receipt of a Lottery grant in 1995 enabled new instruments to be purchased to replace the old ones - some of which had been around for 50 years. Contesting has in the past been a feature of the Band. The band reaching the National Finals twice, in 1991 and 199), but also many members - Senior and Junior - have taken part, very successfully, in Solo and Quartet Contests. The Youth Band achieved the honour of becoming East Anglian Champions in 1992. Centenary Celebrations took place in 1996 and a march entitled 'HSB' was especially commissioned for the Band.
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