As I'm moving into my first year out of full-time education and into teaching, I'm aware that I'm going to have to work harder to continue my own performing. I am currently a member of Manchester University Wind Orchestra but was wondering if anyone could recommend any other wind orchestras/concert bands etc. in the North West area? Thanks.

I heard recently about this Web site:
http://www.concert-bands.co.uk/cgi-bin/cb-links.pl
It lists Concert Bands web site with links to individual bands.

Many bands (not necessarily the same ones as on the above site) have their details on the Amateur Orchestras' Web site, which is organised by region with some groups listed more than once if they happen to be near the loose borders between regions. It also has many links to individual groups. Here's a link to the North West bit:
http://www.amateurorchestras.org.uk/onorthwe.htm

Not all groups are necessarily listed on either of the above sites, so if you don't find anything appropriate there it would probably be worth contacting any listed groups that are near the area you are interested in, and asking if they know of any others. Whatever organisation runs the local music services for children may also have useful information, or indeed run adult groups themselves as has happened recently in my area (West Berkshire).

I hope you find somethings that's just right for you.

dacapo has given all the required links. Loads of wind playing opportunites are available in you area.

If you have a look at the thread entitled "Playing Opportunities near you" which is pinned at the top of the Forum Events sub-forum, there's a geographical list of bands etc which forum members are involved with, and there's also a link to the "Wind Bands" web site, which is a directory of wind and concerts bands around the country.

Thanks everyone

If you can get to the Huddersfield area, try -
The band of the west Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service www.WYFRSband.com
The Band of the Yorkshire Volunteers
Huddersfield Concert Band
Halifax concert band x

The North Cheshire Concert Band can't be too far from you. They are supposed to be quite good (never heard them so can't say for sure) and have a really enthusiastic active approach to commissioning and new music.

Yes, good idea. I played with them once at RNCM when they needed an e-flat and I vaguely know one of their conductors! I'll definitely look into it, thanks.

As for Huddersfield area... I think it might be a little too far for me to travel unfortunately, especially after a day of driving between schools! But thanks for the ideas.