One of the iconic names of the New Zealand banding movement will celebrate what it calls a "milestone" anniversary by hopefully putting the last building bricks in place to secure its future.
Woolston Brass from Christchurch is 135 years old this year and is the most successful, and arguably the most famous band in the country. It won its first National title in 1909 and has notched up a further 27 since.
Be strong
It has certainly lived up to its Maori motto 'Tohea Kia Kaha' (persevere, be strong) since 1891.
For the majority of that history, it has seen the band based at its headquarters in the Woolston area of the city. However, it was severely damaged in the 2011 earthquake and was subsequently demolished in 2024.
Now, as reported in the latest edition of 'Mouthpiece', the official journal of the New Zealand banding movement, following a huge effort to raise $4,500,000, a new Woolston Community and Arts Hub building is entering the final phase of being constructed on the same site.
It will provide a new rehearsal home not only for the senior band, but also for its flourishing Academy set-up, offering a wonderful base for accessibility for the wider local community.
Full pace
Speaking about the exciting development, Todd Turner, General Manager of Woolston Brass Inc, said: "Construction is now moving at full pace, with the major build on track to be completed before the end of the year.
For the first time since demolition in February 2024, we can stand on site and see the outline of our future — the rehearsal room, the teaching spaces, the heart of the building where people will gather, learn, and make music together."
For the first time since demolition in February 2024, we can stand on site and see the outline of our futureWoolston Brass
Further donations
Now the band is hoping that the final phase of reconstruction will be boosted by further donations from across the banding world, as Todd added: "Every contribution, big or small, helps us get one step closer to opening the doors."
More information about how to support the rebuild is available at: www.woolstonbrass.org
To get the Mouthpiece magazine contact: bbanzeo@gmail.com
