Australia’s number 1 ranked band, the Kew Band from Melbourne, has entered into a ground breaking partnership with the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music, University of Melbourne.

Exciting relationship

Musical Director of Kew, Mark Ford, and Band President, Dr. Matthew van Emmerik, recently met with the Director of the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music, Professor Gary McPherson, to organise the beginning of what will prove to be an exciting relationship between the two organisations.

Great deal

Dr van Emmerik told 4BR: "Musical Director Mark Ford and I have been working on this project for some time. We feel that Kew has a great deal to offer the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music and vice versa — the potential with both organisations working together is enormous. Kew Band is the top band in Australasia and the University’s Music programme is world class."

4BR understands that the focus for the relationship is extensive, with high quality music making linked to the potential for students to be involved with Kew band in rehearsals, concerts and compositional projects.

We feel that Kew has a great deal to offer the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music and vice versa — the potential with both organisations working together is enormousDr Matthew van Emmerik

Showcase

Dr van Emmerik added: "We are looking forward to presenting the finest compositions for the brass band medium as well as showcasing soloists from Australia’s major orchestras and international guest artists. Kew Band Melbourne’s’ first concert in March will therefore feature the Principal Trumpet of the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra, Matt Dempsey, performing Haydn’s ‘Trumpet Concerto’."