Curator's Corner: The Bradford City Police Band & The Conductor's Baton

July 2025 Edition

In this month’s Curator’s Corner, we shine a spotlight on a remarkable object from our collection: the conductor’s baton of the Bradford City Police Band, presented to Conductor A. H. Chapman in 1902.

While a conductor’s baton is primarily used to keep time and unify a band’s performance, this particular baton carries deeper significance. With its polished wooden shaft, engraved silver mount, and original blue velvet-lined case, it served not just as a musical tool but as a symbol of recognition.

Police brass bands, including the Bradford City band, were popular locally and helped to promote a positive image of the police force. The band was used for police and mayoral events and other parades, but also to support charities, and the wider community. These concerts reinforced the police’s role not only in law enforcement, but also in public morale and community identity.^[1] 

Chapman's Baton, on display at the front, forms part of our current temporary exhibition on the Bradford City Police Band before merging with the still existing West Yorkshire Police Band

Founded in 1899, the Bradford City Police Band remained active into the early 20th century. Dressed in smart uniforms and known for their well-rehearsed repertoire, they became a beloved part of Bradford’s civic soundscape, especially during holidays, royal occasions, and community gatherings.^[2]

The tradition of police bands dates back to the mid 19th century, when British police forces sought to improve their image and integrate more fully with the communities they served. Music served to help soften perceptions of the force and as part of a wider effort to strengthen ties between police forces and the public. By the early 20th century, nearly every major British city had a police band, and the tradition also spread to many parts of the British Empire and Commonwealth.^[3]

In 1974, the Leeds and Bradford police forces amalgamated to form the West Yorkshire Metropolitan Police, the West Yorkshire Police Band followed shortly after, and still perform today.^[4] 

Thanks to careful conservation work by the museum’s curatorial team, Chapman’s baton has been restored to its former glory. Stop by the gallery to check out the new temporary exhibit featuring this beautifully restored object.

^[1] ‘Police Band (Music).’ Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 15 April 2025, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Police_band_(music).

^[2] Holman, Gavin. ‘Hello, Hello, Hello—the Brass Bands that Made Arresting Music for their Audiences.’ Academia.edu, 4 October 2020.

^[3] ‘Police Band (Music).’ Wikipedia.

^[4] The West Yorkshire Police Band, West Yorkshire Police. www.westyorkshire.police.uk/about-us/our-departments/west-yorkshire-police-band.