By Isle of Wight Observer
Medina Marching Band IW is marking its 50th anniversary, with a year of high‑profile performances, supported by a grant from WightAID. The charity awarded £3,317 to the band, allowing essential refurbishments, including repainting and restoring the drums, and providing new white gloves for every member, ensuring the ensemble looks as sharp as it sounds.
The golden jubilee has already been packed with highlights. The band began the year at the London New Year’s Day Parade, followed by a 50th Anniversary Spring Concert featuring a reunion band. Summer brought further celebrations with the 50th Anniversary Tattoo at Cowes Enterprise College, and a trip to National Band Week. There, Medina performed at the London Tattoo, and marched from Horse Guards Parade up The Mall to Buckingham Palace during the Parade of Bands.
The celebrations continue next month, with the band invited to perform in the Lord Mayor’s Show in London, which will be broadcast live on the BBC.
A spokesman said: “Thank you, WightAID, from everyone at Medina Marching Band for your generosity, and promoting our band. We have had such a great 50th anniversary year so far, and can’t wait to head to London again next month.”
WightAID congratulated the band, praising its dedication and success during this milestone year.