The Turrumburra Concert Band
The Turrumburra Concert Band was formed in May 2008 as an adult learner band under the guidance of North Shore musical personality Phil Arnold. Its initial members were, in the main, adults keen to learn and play music for the very first time. Other initial members included more experienced musicians wanting to learn new musical instruments. Inaugural band member Gillian Behr said “The Turrumburra Band has been a wonderful success. The musical progress of the individual members and of the band as a whole has been outstanding”.
The Band’s musical skills have developed rapidly by using the band tutor book “Accent on Achievement” volumes 1 and 2. In addition, Band members benefitted significantly from the live-in band camps in 2009 and 2010. The Band’s current repertoire includes crowd favourites such as Rock around the Clock, Tequila, Fiesta and Handel’s Water Music.
The Turrumburra Band now has over 40 members, whose ages range from 18 to 70, attending rehearsal each Wednesday. It has been a challenge for many members to take up music for the first time as adults while dealing with the complexities of family and work. Nevertheless, the rewards have been worth the effort. Clarinet player Greig Whitehead said “I have always wanted to play the clarinet and the Band has provided me with the opportunity to do so. It has been a wonderful experience to play with other adults, all learning at the same time.”
New musicians are always welcome to check out the Band by joining a Wednesday evening rehearsal (musicians playing at AMEB grade 2 would feel comfortable). The Band’s membership secretary and can be contacted via the Membership Enquiry link under Contact Us if you would like to attend a rehearsal or get more inforamtion.
Rehearsals
When: The Band rehearses from 8:00 pm to 10:00pm each Wednesday during the public school terms.
Where: In our Band Room – Level 1, 180 Longueville Road, Lane Cove (Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother Centenary Centre).
Membership Fees
Membership of the Turrumburra Concert Band costs $210 per financial year.
Membership discounts are available for seniors, full time students or families.