By Suzanne Coulson
If you’ve never witnessed the Spanish City Rollers in action, you’re missing out on a musical feast funkier than a seagull strut along the shoreline!
Nestled in the heart of Whitley Bay, the Spanish City Rollers bring a unique blend of swanky brass sounds to the local scene, spreading joy for both onlookers and participants alike, with their upbeat melodies and trademark Hawaiian shirts, their music serves as a soundtrack to the lively spirit of North Tyneside, reminding residents and visitors alike to embrace the serenade.
Formed and funded initially for the Whitley Bay Carnival back in 2014 the Spanish City Rollers have flourished, boasting members from all walks of life within the local area. Now self-funded, they rely on community support to keep their melodies echoing through various gigs and events such as the North Shields Victorian Christmas Market, Tynemouth Food Festival, Whitley Bay Carnival, Mouth of the Tyne Festivals and popping up at local busker sessions around the area.
I stumbled upon Spanish City Rollers as a novice Alto Sax player, craving a musical home where I could navigate the intricacies of my instrument. A bit of internet sleuthing led me to their lively renditions of pop classics, and I was sold. I arrived with a caveat: I was (and still am) very much in the learning phase, both theoretically and practically.
Yet, I was welcomed with open arms and supported every step of the way—a testament to the group’s inclusive and nurturing ethos.
Graham Hardy, Band Lead, described his favourite thing about the band being the connections made within the community, and the friendships made within the band – describing it as a ‘proper community band’, embracing newcomers alongside seasoned players who gather weekly, with a core group of band members meeting weekly and others who come and go as time and life allows.
Dedicated to community engagement, the Spanish City Rollers aim to spread joy through music and enrich the local fabric. They’re always on the lookout for new members, whether tooting a trumpet, banging a drum, honing saxophone skills, or mastering the trombone, they eagerly invite musicians to join their group. Even if you can’t tell a teapot from a tuba, you can still support by attending their lively performances or contributing to fundraising efforts through their crowdfunder page, helping the band to continue to bring music to the community.
Keep your eyes peeled for upcoming gigs at Cullercoats Festival on 15th June and Fiesta Whitley Bay on 7th July. Certain to be both seen and heard with infectious tunes and vibrant presence, the Spanish City Rollers are sure to have even the most reserved souls tap their toes along to their rhythmic revelry.
Facebook: Spanish City Rollers
Support our crowdfunder: www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/spanish-city-rollers
