The original Police Band was formed in Salford in 1877, to play at the funeral of a police officer. Originally made up of serving police officers, the band performed military-style music at a range of events in the Manchester area.

The band continued on through the years: when Salford City Police joined the City Of Manchester Police in 1968, and Greater Manchester Police was formed in 1974, the band played on. It was briefly disbanded in the 1980s, but was reformed a couple of years later by several of the previous members (including current serving volunteer, George Pinnington) and was opened up to volunteer musicians, in order to perform at police and community events far and wide.

Since then, the band has grown into an acclaimed 50-strong Symphonic Wind Band, coupled with a Marching Band who undertake many high profile concerts, parades and public ceremonies. In 2005 we formed a Big Band in order to expand our repertoire and appeal to new audiences. We also have a Dixie Band, Saxophone Quartet, Fanfare Brass Ensemble and Jazz Group.

We’re now celebrating making music for 140 years!