During the 19th century, the brass band was used by industrialists as a way of bringing workers out from the pubs and as a means of fostering a spirit of brotherhood amongst them.

Robert Thompson Crawshay of Cyfarthfa Castle created his band by luring professional musicians to play in the area - a bone of contention with other contemporary bands. He bought the finest instruments he could, including some by Austrian manufacturers, whilst other bands had to make do with British instruments.

Source:
Display text, Cyfarthfa Castle Museum & Art Gallery [reproduced with permission]