On 19th February 2022 the South Gippsland Shire Brass Band turned 130 years old. The Band was officially established on the 19th of February 1892 as the Leongatha Town Band, making it the oldest community group in Leongatha.
Their first concert was in the Mechanics Institute in 1893, although the musicians probably entertained the locals before this. The first official engagement was welcoming home a wounded soldier from the Boer War at the Leongatha Railway Station in 1900.
The Band has been active in the South Gippsland community, and beyond for 130 years, performing at most important occasions in the Shire, in many cases without payment, bringing music to the people. Music brings joy to both players and listeners, and at ceremonial occasions engenders a sense of community, and togetherness. The Band has taught many people to play over the years, loaning them an instrument without charge.
The Band would welcome any Brass players, or anyone wanting to learn, age is no barrier, we have had learners from 6 to 78 years old.
The Band rehearses in the Old Leongatha Courthouse on Wednesday evenings at 7.30 pm.
Contact: Darryl Hunt, President. 0407 444 210. Email darjud@bigpond.com
