Moree Band secures Council backing to transition from brass to semi-concert band
MOREE and District Band will grow and change in 2020 after successfully securing a grant from Moree Plains Shire Council’s public donations fund.
The funding will be used to purchase new instruments as well as lessons for members to help the band transition from a brass band to a semi-concert band.
The restructure will also make it financially easier to join the band and learn an instrument.
Band Shirley Reynolds explained how the funding will be spent to restructure the band.
“The band will no longer be able to use the bulk of their huge traditional brass band repertoire now. Soon, we will have nearly all new music plus a couple of different instruments,” Mrs Reynolds said.
“During the transition stage we will plan ahead and hopefully purchase saxophones as soon as required.
“At the moment we will need consumables and accessories, stands and new music straight away to enable the changes from brass to concert band.
“Tuition will be provided but learners will need to be committed. We have plenty of brass instruments but, as yet, no woodwinds are owned by the band – new players with their own instrument can begin immediately,” Mrs Reynolds said.
Moree Band members at Moree on a Plate in 2018 (Image courtesy of Fiona Lysaught).
The band has been operating in Moree since 1885 and provides live music at multiple events including Australia day, ANZAC Day, Remembrance Day and Moree’s annual Twilight Christmas Carols.
The band has also represented Moree in various competitions and regularly provides music for Moree’s aged-care residents to enjoy.
Mayor Katrina Humphries indicated her support for the funding of the band, describing the group as an asset to the Moree community.
“Not all regional communities have the luxury of having a band that can play at various community events,” Cr Humphries said.
“Council felt it was important to support the restructure of the band to ensure we enjoy their music for many years to come.
“I am excited to see the new direction the band will take this year and new sound they will create with the additional instruments and lessons,” she said.
Anyone interested in joining the Moree and District Band should contact one the representatives listed below.
All new members are welcome and players with their own instrument can begin immediately.
President: Shirley Reynolds 0407 936076
Musical director: Jacqualyn Lillyman 0488 140581
Band member and musician: Marty Roberts 0401 342414
Media Release: Thursday, June 25, 2020
Image: Fiona Lysaught
