A MUSICAL group originally launched as a brass band is changing to attract new musicians.

By relaunching itself as Shildon Community Band, the group is hoping to encourage a variety of musicians, not just brass players, to join up.

Band founder Graeme Scarlett said the group, originally called the North Eastern Industries Brass Band, would have been in danger of folding had it not been prepared to move with the times.

He said: "As brass players are fast becoming few and far between, a number of traditional brass bands will either have to move with new musical trends or fold altogether.

"It is now no longer enough to hold on to the past. This is 2002, musical tastes have changed and will continue to change. Audiences want to hear traditional music, which we will still cater for, but we will also now offer a sound currently not being offered by anyone else."

A midi-keyboard has been purchased to appeal to a younger audience, and Mr Scarlett said he is keen to hear from players of all musical instruments, including brass and woodwind.

Anyone interested can call Mr Scarlett on (01388) 774228