Goldfields Youth Brass Band Workshop hits a high note - Ulumbarra Foundation
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20 Mar Goldfields Youth Brass Band Workshop hits a high note

Posted at 14:36h in Uncategorized by

More than 35  young brass and percussion students from the Bendigo area, supported by three expert tutors and more than 20 dedicated volunteers, came together for a workshop at The Capital Theatre on 23rd February, 2025. The students workshopped new music, and learned new techniques, finishing the day with a concert, showcasing their talent.

The Goldfields Youth Brass Band Workshop received a Power-up grant from the Ulumbarra Foundation to address a need for specialised brass training and community engagement for young musicians.

“Many students in the region currently receive limited exposure to brass-specific instruction outside their school environment. The workshop allowed them to refine their technique, develop ensemble skills, and connect with local community bands,” said Alicia Parry, who was the driving force behind the new initiative.

The workshop was hosted by local musicians and youth music advocates Alicia Parry and Claire McLean, with the support of the Bendigo & District Bands’ Group; an umbrella group for community bands within the wider Bendigo area. The Bendigo & District Bands’ Group encourages collaboration and supports local musicians of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to advanced performers.

Alicia and Claire have both been involved in music as long as they can remember, and are both passionate about providing affordable, accessible music opportunities for young people. Alicia runs the Bendigo Youth Brass program, while Claire coordinates the Marist Brass Academy. Both have extensive experience playing in community bands and orchestras.

Claire said many students complete their schooling having no idea what other musical opportunities are available to them outside of the school environment.

“Unfortunately, a lot of music students stop playing after school as they don’t have a clear pathway. (The workshop) was all about providing them with an opportunity to link with community bands and their members, making the transition from school to community music easier,” said Claire.

Alicia emphasised the importance of creating pathways for young musicians to connect with the broader community and develop lifelong musical skills.

“It was fantastic to see so many school students mixing with community musicians and learning some new techniques to improve their skills,” she said.

The workshop was divided into beginner and advanced groups, with sessions focusing on sight-reading, technique refinement, and ensemble playing. Louisa Trewartha (Yamaha Artist), Nick Beale (Victorian State Youth Brass Band Tutor), and Brandon Waterworth (Percussionist, Royal Australian Navy Band) assisted as mentors. It also featured a Q&A session for the students.

The workshop was hosted with support from the City of Greater Bendigo Brass Band and Marist Brass Band, who loaned music, equipment and percussion gear for the day.