Bandstand
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A bandstand is a circular or semicircular structure set in a park, garden, or pier, designed to accommodate musical bands performing outdoor concerts. A simple construction which not only creates an ornamental focal point it also serves acoustic requirements whilst providing shelter for the changeable weather.
Many bandstands in the United Kingdom originated in the Victorian era as the British brass band movement gained popularity. Smaller bandstands are often not much more than gazebos. Much larger bandstands such as that at the Hollywood Bowl may be called band shells and usually take a shape similar to a quarter sphere.
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[edit] Bandstands of Interest
One of the most recent bandstands erected in the UK was the Jedforest Instrumental Bandstand. Opened by HRH the Princess Royal spring 2006.
In 1993 the Deal Memorial Bandstand was opened as memorial to eleven bandsman killed by 1989 Deal barracks bombing. The bandstand was erected by public subscription and is maintained by volunteers.
A good example of a semi-circular bandstand is the Eastbourne Bandstand which replaced a circular bandstand that stood on cast iron stilts.
Herne Bay, Kent contains a totally enclosed bandstand with a stage and cafe area, topped with copper clad domes.
[edit] Other information
Many Bandstands were manufactured in Scotland and are listed in the Scottish Iron Work website.
The function of the bandstand inspired the names of:
- the 1950s United States television show American Bandstand and
- the Australian television show Bandstand (1958-72).
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