This band is made up of novice musicians with little or no experience of playing an instrument or reading music. The band is underpinned by a training and teaching programme that guides the musicians towards their Grade 1 & 2 practical and theory music exams. Although encouraged, it is not essential for Training Band members to take music exams as Training Band has an emphasis on the fun-side of music making with a weekend residential course,  and other musical trips undertaken. Normally, as musicians progress to Grade 2, and at the discretion of the Musical Directors,  individuals advance into the Spectrum band.

Spectrum is the intermediate band that accepts musicians who have reached a reasonable standard, usually grade 2 practical.  Most members work towards further musical exams, not only for personal advancement but also to contribute to improving the Band's overall performance. The band has a busy programme of  engagements playing at fetes and open days, as well as entering  competitions and music festivals.
The musical directors will decide when an individual has shown the right attitude, commitment and achieved the appropriate musical  standard in order to begin playing with the Youth Concert Band. It is expected that musicians would spend a transition period, usually the equivalent to a school term, playing in both Spectrum and YCB.