Brass Band Report

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 1, Issue 4, 28 June 1983, Page 6

Brass Band Report

Another year will have passed for the Waimarino Brass Band when the 1983 Annual Meeting is held on July 2nd. Although small in numbers, the band has managed to maintain a regular programme of practices and has made an appearance when requested to do so by the local community. A very successful season of carol playing took place before Christmas and the band provided the music for Anzac Day services throughout the Waimarino. 1983 is an important year for the band as it marks a milestone in the band's history. The band was first formed in 1908 and will have been in existence for 75 years this year. Throughout that period, the number of players has fluctuated but the band has' never gone into recess nor been unable to meet its commitments to the public. Many changes to brass band music and traditions have taken place over the years, and the local band has seen them all, and has survived all the problems that have beset other small bands in the country. In fact, the Waimarino Brass Band is now the only band left in the Central North Island between Marton and Taumarunui. A weekend of celebrations to mark the 75th Jubilee of the band is planned for mid November this year. Initial interest from

past and present players has been very encouraging and a large number of supporters of the band are expected to gather from all over New Zealand for the weekend 's activities. The band has reflected current trends in brass band music with a decline in players in recent years. There is a need at present for more active members and players to build the band up to full strength. At present, the band is supplying some instruments to Ruapehu jCollege to enable music tuition to take place at the college under the instruction of Mr S. Hill who visits the school once a week. Some of the college students have now reached a suitable standard to join the band and the band is increasing in numbers. But more players are still required and any local person interested in brass band music and prepared to support the band is invited to^ attend any practice. Prac^l tices are held in the Bandrooms in Moore Street on Monday evenings at 7.30pm. All supporters of the band and interested people are also invited to the Annual Meeting to be held on July 2nd in the Bandrooms. Remember, the band is part of the local community and needs the support of the community to keep up its fine record of 75" years service to the Waimarino.