The Morvah Band would appears to have had a short
life span, the earliest mention John has found on them is a couple of engagements in 1856 and a contest attended in
1863. The band must have done more during the years between (and maybe even after or before) If anybody can add to this your input would be most welcomed.
From a report in the Penzance
Gazette we know that
In August of 1856 the Penzance Institute held a
Gala and Public Tea in the grounds of Rosehill.
"The Morvah and St Just Band was
in attendance and gave the most unqualified satisfaction". At the end of the
proceedings three cheers were given for the Queen and the band played the
National Anthem'
And for this same event in the Cornish
Telegraph
"The foreground was speedily rendered more animated
and attractive by the arrival of the Morvah Band."
".....while the musicians heightened the joys of all by their delightful
airs."
There second event reported in the Cornish Telegraph, again August 1856
A sports and horse racing day was held at Eastern
Green Sands. Unusually good weather. ".....the Morvah and St Just band,
who promenaded the streets, took up their stations assigned to them away amongst
the thickest of the sight-seers and enlivened the day by some choice and
spirited airs."
The contest the band attended in 1863 was held in Redruth, the band being
unplaced. They were conducted by R Williams and played two pieces of music
"Denmark Quadrille" and "Lament for Wellington".
As John pointed out to me -
You will notice that in the 1856 mentions, each
time they are coupled with St Just band and also the word "Band" is singular
rather than plural, hinting to me at least that during this time period the
official title could well have been "MORVAH AND ST JUST BAND". Certainly by the
time of the 1863 contest they were "MORVAH BAND"
If you can add to this article please Email me with the details