NAMBUCCA District Band is looking towards another busy year of music-making.
One of the valley’s longest-standing community organisations, the band is encouraging people of all ages and experience levels to join its ranks.
Now in its 106th year, the band has remained an enduring part of the district’s community life, bringing musicians together and entertaining generations of local audiences.
Its recent AGM set the direction for the year ahead. Attracting new members and ensuring the tradition of community band music continues for future generations remains an important focus.
The invitation extends well beyond experienced musicians.
Beginners, school students, and adults wanting to learn something new are all welcome, as are former players thinking of picking up their instruments again.
Committee spokesman Ian Flarrety said involvement in music often became a lifelong interest.
“People from all walks of life can join a band,” he told News Of The Area.
“Music is something that tends to continue all throughout your life.”
For younger people, learning music and performing in a band offers benefits beyond developing musical ability.
“Focusing on music with the band tends to be particularly good for children,” Mr Flarrety said.
“Evidence suggests the skills learned help in building confidence and foster learning.”
Regardless of age, rehearsing and performing together provides regular social interaction, develops teamwork, and creates friendships between people brought together by a love of music.
“Community music also supports wellbeing,” Mr Flarrety said.
“It’s a creative outlet that reduces stress and gives band members a strong sense of connection and belonging.”
While its history stretches back more than a century, the music performed by the Nambucca District Band is anything but confined to the past.
Audiences can hear everything from traditional marching numbers to jazz, country, pop and soft rock.
This diverse repertoire allows the band to maintain the traditions of brass band music while continuing to entertain contemporary audiences across generations.
Nambucca’s band is also an important presence at community events, contributing to local occasions while allowing its members to hone their skills.
Weekly rehearsals are held each Tuesday from 6.30pm at the Macksville Senior Citizens Hall.
Anyone interested in joining or finding out more about the Nambucca District Band can contact Ian Flarrety on 0413 714 253 or email threevalve@hotmail.com.
By Mick BIRTLES
You can help your local paper.
Make a small once-off, or (if you can) a regular donation.
We are an independent family owned business and our newspapers are free to collect and our news stories are free online.
Help support us into the future.
