Bathgate Band is one of Scotland’s oldest and most historic musical institutions. With documented origins as far back as the late 1820s, our earliest members included French Huguenot hand loom weavers whose craftsmanship shaped Bathgate’s reputation and whose musical passion helped form the town’s first brass ensemble.
In 1842, Bathgate Band played for Queen Victoria during her visit to Linlithgow Palace, transported over the Bathgate Hills by horse and cart and paid one guinea for the honour. Since then, the Band has remained a steady thread through Scotland’s civic life, from parades and gala days to royal visits and remembrance services.
Financial survival often required creativity. In the 1870s, many members joined the Volunteer Militia to perform at official events, and local miners famously paid a penny a week from their wages to support the Band. The steelworks and collieries offered both employment and essential funding, proving the Band’s deep connection to Bathgate’s industrial heritage.
In the early 1900s, Bathgate Town Council began to provide financial backing, and the Band became known as Bathgate Public Band — a title reflecting the support and pride of its local people.
The Band has performed at every Bathgate Procession since its inception, played for the town on VE and VJ Day, and welcomed Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip to Kirkton Park in 1955.
From century to century, Bathgate Band has been there for the town, and with your help, will continue to be. Today, we’re seeking a permanent home through the creation of Bathgate Music Hub, a community space where heritage, talent and future generations come together.
Support our vision, save The Wee Mair, and help us extend our legacy.