The group was initiated in 2014 following a chance meeting between Allan Briggs and Ian Craddock on the steps of the Royal Albert Hall. The idea of a reunion led to the formation of a band comprising originally of seven former players. Membership gradually expanded, firstly including musicians from the Imps ‘Golden Era’ of the 1960s and 1970s. The group later expanded to include players from other eras and adopted the name Imps Vets & Friends Band.
The band now draws an average of 18 to 20 players each Tuesday morning, gathering to revisit old favourites and enjoy playing together. Rehearsals often follow themed programmes, with a strong focus on classic repertoire - Gordon Langford arrangements, Eric Ball pieces, and anything by William Rimmer are always popular choices! There’s a particular fondness for overtures and musicals that rarely get an airing these days, like Carousel and The Sound of Music. Around Christmas, the group also enjoy carolling and a catch up in the pub.
If you're interested in joining the Imps Veterans, get in touch with Allan Briggs to find out more about rehearsals and upcoming performances.
The Yorkshire Imps Veterans are a proud part of the Yorkshire Imperial organisation, offering a welcoming and informal setting for former players to reconnect through their shared musical experiences. Weekly rehearsals, held on Tuesday mornings, are designed to be pressure-free and enjoyable, allowing members to revisit familiar repertoire while reminiscing.
The social aspect of the group is considered to be just as important as the music, with memories and banter often filling the time between pieces. Membership is diverse, encompassing both actively performing musicians and those who participate exclusively in the Veterans ensemble. All are welcome!

National Finals champions, 1978

BBC Northern Brass Trophy, 1961

Performance, Horns, 1970s

British Open, 1963

BBC Northern Brass Massed Band, 1970s

British Open, 1980

Band, 1965

Yorkshire Area and British Open champions, 1970

Yorkshire Area, 1965

National Finals, 1978

Rehearsal, 1965

Brass in Concert, 1995

Veterans, 2019

Trophies, 1970s

Band, 1950s

British Open, 1980

Rehearsal, 1950s

Yorkshire Area, 1965

Performance, 1960s

Yorkshire Area, 1978

Castleford Civic Centre, Rehearsal for BBC2, 1970s

BBC Leeds Studio, 1961

CSBO Jubilee Proms, 1992

National Finals, 1970s