The Society has been in continuous existence since 1973, when it was originally founded as the František Kmoch Czech Bands Society.

In 2002 the name was changed with the aim of promoting worldwide the music played by Central European military and civilian wind bands. František Kmoch (1848-1912), the celebrated Czech bandmaster/composer, has long been admired throughout Central Europe for his memorable marches, polkas, waltzes and solo works.

Our purpose in retaining Kmoch’s name in the Society’s title is to emphasise our special commitment to the traditional-style repertoire in which true melody and spirited rhythm are paramount.

Our definition of Central Europe is fairly loosely applied, but basically consists of the area covered by the former Austro-Hungarian Empire, together with Germany, Switzerland, and other bordering lands with related wind band traditions. The ensembles vary in size from less than ten players to the massed bands of several hundred strong which are a feature of many outdoor events. Our interest is mainly in the domestic repertoire of these bands. Hence our field of interest covers music by Blankenburg, Eilenberg, Fučík, Jaeggi, Lehár, Lincke, Teike, Vacek, Vejvoda and J.F.Wagner (as well as countless other composers, both of the presentday and the past two centuries).

The Society, which has a truly worldwide membership, aims to act as a means of bringing enthusiasts of Central European Band Music into contact with others of like mind, to provide them with facilities and information which will enhance their enjoyment of the music, and to spread further the appreciation of this music by assisting and encouraging practising musicians to perform this music.

Members of the Society currently benefit from the following principal activities and functions:

1. A three-times yearly publication entitled “Blasmusik Bulletin: KEBS Newsletter” which contains recent information on composers, music, bands, recordings and events. Also access to specific articles in the journal “Česká muzika”.

2. The opportunity to purchase CD recordings featuring bands, music and occasions not normally covered by commercial releases

3. Help in obtaining commercially-published recordings, sheet music, books and other information sources

4. Meetings of members incorporating appropriate audiovisual presentations

5. Maintaining close contact with appropriate Central European sources, both individuals and organisations

6. Assistance with visits to relevant events in the Central Europe and elsewhere

The annual subscription for 2011 is £11.00 (U.K.), £12 or 20 Euros (Europe), or US$25.00 (elsewhere). A joint subscription is available in the U.K. for two members of the same household at £12.00. If you would like to join the Society, please complete the application form on the membership page and return with your remittance.