Helen Reed

Helen joined Milnrow Band back in 1999 when most teenagers were worrying about homework; she was more concerned about high notes. Growing up in Saddleworth, playing in a brass band was simply “what you did”, so after a few lessons she found herself in Delph Youth Band and has never really put the horn down since.

Over the years, Helen has racked up plenty of special memories, but qualifying for the Nationals and playing at the Royal Albert Hall – not once, but twice – is hard to beat. Somewhere between the nerves, the lights and the organ pipes, she decided this brass band thing was definitely for her.

One of her favourite Milnrow projects was recording the Blast This Christmas Music CD, especially the session where poor Angus couldn’t quite conquer Carol of the Bells. Helen remembers it as proof that even the best of us have that one piece that refuses to behave.

For Helen, banding is as much about people as it is about music. Being in a band with a bunch of friends who understand late-night contests, strange rehearsal jokes and last‑minute dep calls is exactly her idea of a good time.

Off the stand, Helen swaps the horn for an apron. She’s an excellent baker, which means she’s doubly popular on long rehearsal nights – capable of nailing the tricky horn lines and turning up with something freshly baked for the break.