St Kilda Brass, one of the New Zealand banding's most famous names recently marked its 125th anniversary with a weekend of celebration in its home city of Dunedin. It saw current members joined by former players, friends, supporters and special guests from as far afield as the UK.
National champions
Formed in 1901, the band has been a multiple National Champion — the first title coming in 1929. In 2026 they claimed the B Section National title for the second year in a row.
The weekend included a special social event at the local Emerson's Brewery, as well as a display at their Ravelston band headquarters of memorabilia that charted their proud history.
Over 70 people also came together for a celebratory dinner where Brass Band Association of New Zealand President, John Sullivan presented BBANZ Long Service awards to Ian McCabe, Peter Adams, Dr John McAdam, Dr Errol Moore, Peter McHenry and Ted Pheloung — the latter making 66 years of service to the band.
National Band of New Zealand pins were also presented to current representatives Rebecca Phibbs and William Henderson.
Special guests
A spokesperson told 4BR: "A memorable weekend culminated in a gala concert where over 450 people enjoyed an outstanding event, and where we were delighted to welcome our special guests Ian, Leanne and Harry Porthouse.
It marked a reconnection for Ian who played for St Kilda when he lived in the country in the early 1990s. He returned as a player in 2001 as part of the centenary celebrations, whilst Harry played principal cornet with us on our most recent National title victory this year."
Premieres
The concert featured the world premiere of 'Celebration Suite', specially commissioned from composer Kenneth Young, with funding from the MacAndrew Bay Orphans and Entertainers Club.
The Porthouse family also brought their own unique gift — a new work entitled 'Saints and Dragons' by composer Matthew Hall, featuring Ian, Leanne and Harry as soloists, whilst Harry reminded everyone of the talents that's saw him claim a brace of 'Best Soloist' awards in helping them to their National recent success, with his rendition of 'Jubilance'.
St Kilda Brass can look back with pride on 125 years of music-making, and forward to the next chapter in its proud historySt Kilda Brass
Pride
Peter Adams and Ian Porthouse shared the conducting duties throughout the concert, with Peter surprising the audience by bringing out his clarinet and joining in above the band in the finale.
The spokesperson added: "What an occasion it was. The large audience responded with great enthusiasm, bringing to a close a memorable and highly successful weekend.
St Kilda Brass can look back with pride on 125 years of music-making, and forward to the next chapter in its proud history."
