The oral history interview with Norman Hollyfield and Rose Stanbury, conducted on May 17, 2024, at the Briton Ferry Silver Band Hall, traces the band's history, struggles, and personal experiences.

00:00:46 – Norman details the band's origins, starting as a military band in 1911 before transitioning into the Briton Ferry Silver Band due to competition wins. The band moved through various venues before settling in their current hall.

00:02:57 – Rose recalls temporary practice locations, including a chapel, DIY store, and the Crown pub, highlighting the band's struggle for a permanent space. They eventually secured funding for land and built a purpose-designed band hall.

00:06:02 – They describe the hall’s modern features, including acoustic panels, storage, and visitor-friendly facilities.

00:06:24 – Norman shares his musical journey, learning piano before transitioning to brass instruments, particularly bass trombone. Rose recounts her family’s deep connection to the band, where all five siblings played.

00:10:16 – They reminisce about past performances, including marching events and community engagements. The decline in marching traditions is noted due to aging members.

00:12:14 – Amusing band memories are shared, including a trombonist marching the wrong way and an instrument mishap mid-march.

00:14-30 - Trips and competition in various competitions, structured like a football league system. They have participated in high-level events but withdrew from a competition to avoid being promoted beyond their ability to compete with elite, professional-level bands.

00:18:30
Brass band competitions vary in format. Some are judged blindly, ensuring fairness, while others allow bands to choose their pieces strategically. Competitions have evolved to be more entertaining, incorporating visuals and themed performances.

00:20:22
The band’s repertoire is diverse, including pop, jazz, traditional brass marches, and historical music for events like D-Day commemorations. Their conductors, Geoff Pearson and Christian Jenkins, arrange music as needed.

00:23:04
Briton Ferry Silver Hall Band has a strong family tradition, with multiple generations involved. Many members continue their musical careers professionally but often return to play.

00:26:54
Notable memories include performing at the Royal Albert Hall, representing Wales in national finals, and hosting large-scale competitions. The band takes pride in nurturing young musicians, many of whom achieve professional success.

00:31:33
The discuss what kept the band going and made them endure the years of COVID 19 pandemic [2020-2023] and survive where other bands disbanded.