Saint Francis Hospice Concert Band raises £4,400 with sell-out debut concert

The Saint Francis Hospice Concert Band has raised an incredible £4,400 for the hospice following its sell-out debut concert.

The inaugural performance at Corpus Christi Church in Collier Row on Sunday 19 July exceeded all expectations, with tickets selling out around 10 days before the event and organisers having to turn people away as the church reached capacity. 

Band founder and conductor Paul Binder described the day as “a resounding success”, with the audience and musicians creating an electric atmosphere that culminated in a standing ovation at the end of the concert. 

“What the band achieved in just three months from start-up to giving a full concert is beyond my wildest dreams,” said Paul.

The fundraising total was revealed to band members at a celebratory gathering following the concert. 

“The buzz from both the band and the audience was outstanding,” said Paul. “The band members played really well and it resulted in a standing ovation at the end. The feedback from audience members, including Saint Francis Hospice colleagues and supporters, was fantastic.”

The concert showcased a band made up of hospice staff, volunteers, healthcare professionals and members of the local community, all brought together through a shared love of music and a desire to support Saint Francis Hospice. 

Watch the encore performance and experience some of the energy and atmosphere from the concert: 

The success of the first concert is already being repeated, with tickets for the Christmas concert at Brentwood School on Sunday 13th December at 7pm selling fast.