By Holly Senogles
The Werribee Concert Band is a community organisation established officially in 1986, but roots of the band have been tied back to the early 1900’s in the form of a brass band. Now a wind band consisting of brass, woodwind and percussion, the Werribee Concert Band has entered its 40th-anniversary year.
Guiding this incredible milestone is Musical Director Harrison Merrifield who takes the helm each week as members prepare for performances throughout Wyndham and the wider Melbourne community. Operating as a not-for-profit organisation, meaning all income goes directly back into its members, providing access to high quality instruments, diverse repertoire and unique performance opportunities
This musical presence extends to local community events, schools, cultural groups, and key Melbourne events such as the ANZAC Day Commemoration March and Moomba. These public engagements provide a shared, active purpose for the band’s approximately 35 regular members. Providing an ensemble experience a step above what school bands can typically offer, the group welcomes students finishing their education alongside adults returning to their instruments, and those looking to extend.
“We are an accessible and friendly place where every musician is welcome. We rehearse every Thursday night in Werribee South and it’s always exciting when new players join.” Says Band Secretary, Holly Senogles. “Werribee Concert Band is an excellent place for musicians to grow just as I started on alto saxophone many years ago and have now transitioned to the bass clarinet,”
Community music is only successful through mutual partnerships within the wider community. These may include sponsorships, opportunities to perform or even by being a wonderful and supportive audience.
The band’s milestone 40th year welcomed a partnership with Arcare Aged Care, bringing the joy of live music directly to the residents of Arcare.
To further recognise the incredible community within the Werribee Concert Band and its many supporters, this October 4th at the Wyndham Cultural Centre, the band celebrates its 40th birthday with a major concert. Set to delight the audience with a trip down memory lane, the band’s 10 year history of annual concerts will be celebrated through a curated selection of pieces featuring one from each past annual concert. The evening will conclude with a grand finale piece commissioned specially for the occasion.
Tickets are available directly from the Wyndham Cultural Centre box office.
