DUST off your trumpet, flute or tuba and join the talented musicians in Bendigo\u2019s only community concert band.<\/p>\n
The Bendigo and District Concert Band was formed in 1935, known then as the Golden Square Brass Band, and welcomes woodwind, brass and percussion instrumentalists to perform with them at a range of events and competitions throughout the region.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019ve had a variety of people head through over time, they could be medical students, they could be from the university, locals, primary school kids or more mature members of the area,\u201d said band secretary and flautist Kerry Eldridge.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019re phenomenal in our talent, we have music teachers here, people who have gone all the way through school, kids who are just learning, we all play together.\u201d<\/p>\n
With only one performance held earlier this year at Easter, Ms Eldridge said band members are keen to get back on stage and delight audiences.<\/p>\n
\u201cPeople cheer, they\u2019re so excited to see bands and they\u2019ll go \u2018oh I know that song!\u2019,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019d normally get out and about and do far more than we have so hopefully we can do Summer in the Parks if everything is looking good this year.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe were trying to do a gala concert, which is what we\u2019re working towards, once we can find a location which will accommodate social distancing and numbers for an audience.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s an animal themed gala concert, we had to postpone it last year, so we\u2019re back on to doing it again this year.\u201d<\/p>\n
Musicians interested in joining are welcome to attend concert band rehearsals on Thursday evenings from 7.30pm \u2013 9.30pm at the Bendigo Brass Band Hall at Tom Flood Sports Centre, and players must be able to read sheet music.<\/p>\n
Those looking for more beginner friendly practice can head in a little earlier for the group\u2019s Music Academy from 6.30pm \u2013 7.15pm.<\/p>\n
\u201cGet out there, dust those instruments off and come along and have a go,\u201d Ms Eldridge said.<\/p>\n
\u201cNow that we\u2019ve got to stay closer to home this is a great opportunity to get out on a Thursday night without having to be really close to people but you\u2019re still in a social atmosphere.\u201d<\/p>\n