*
banner

Stars of the Future

Waitakere Brass, Auckland establish a new youth band.

Waitakere Youth
 

With an experienced team of administrators, tutors and directors, Waitakere Brass’ new youth band promises to be the training ground for the band's stars of the future.

The Launch

The training scheme was officially launched at the band's recent sell-out 'Toys 4 Kids' concert where, thanks to a targeted marketing campaign and local PR, the audience was filled with budding young musicians keen to enter the world of brass.

Children at the concert were given the opportunity to interact with players from the band and to have a go at playing an instrument at the end of the concert to raise interest in the program.

Up and running

A reception evening was held the following week and the Waitakere Youth Band is now up and running with a small group of enthusiastic players.

The band is being headed by Waitakere's Musical Director, Steven Booth, and Solo Horn player, Claire Whyte.

Claire, a classroom music teacher in her life outside of band, is well known throughout the Auckland region for her work with youth, having worked with the Kumeu Auxilliary Band.

Both Steven and Claire are looking forward to developing a program where youth of all ages can enjoy everything brass bands have to offer.

Quality

The scheme is designed to provide quality tuition for children wishing to learn a brass instrument, as well as the opportunity for young people to play together in a band.

Students receive weekly individual lessons, theory tuition, band participation and an instrument to use. Both beginners and more experienced players from 7 years of age are welcome to join.

Rehearsals

The youngsters started their first rehearsals three weeks ago, meeting on Monday evenings from 7pm and finishing up just as Waitakere's A Grade Band arrive for rehearsal.

The timing is proving popular with the children, as they enjoy watching the senior band play and are already eyeing up which seat they want in the future!

Register your interest

Anyone interested in learning a brass instrument or joining the youth band is invited to register their interest by contacting Claire Whyte at waitakereyouth@hotmail.com.

Become a supporter and help make our future secure.

4barsrest continues to be a proudly independent voice. There are no paywalls to overcome to be able to enjoy what we do to keep our journalism at the heart of the brass banding world. Support us with a one-off donation or subscribe from just £2.50 per month.

Support us    


Gregson

Focus on Gregson's Choice on National eve

October 8 • The International Staff Band of the Salvation Army will be joined by Ian Bousfield for an aperitif evening of music from the pen of Edward Gregson ahead of his Albert Hall challenge.


World of Brass

Cory and Baker CD brace launched

October 8 • The latest CD releases from Cory and Brett Baker will be on sale at the Royal Albert Hall this year.


4BR Preview

4BR Review — Episode 9

October 7 • Join the conversion with your views and opinions about the Royal Albert Hall National Final — who you think may win and what you feel should be done to secure its future.


the cooperation band

Half century mark for cooperation players

October 7 • Keith Johnstone and Ray Munday have just notched up 50 years of outstanding service to the brass band movement — with an appearance at the Albert Hall to help with the celebrations.


Regent Hall Concerts - Stately Brass Quintet

Friday 10 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Academy Symphonic Brass

Friday 10 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Hathersage Band - Hathersage Village Autumn Concert

Saturday 11 October • Hathersage Methodist Church, Main Road, Hathersage S32 1BB S32 1BB


Contest: National Brass Band Championships of Great Britain

Saturday 11 October • The Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, South Kensington, London SW7 2AP


Regent Hall Concerts - Regent Hall Band of the Salvation Army

Tuesday 14 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Welwyn Garden City Band

October 6 • We are a friendly & sociable Second Section Band with an exciting and varied Christmas season ahead. Due to an employment relocation, we have an immediate vacancy for a FRONT ROW CORNET player.


Tewit Silver Band

October 4 • Principal Eb Bass. Our established bass section are looking for a strong leader to elevate their performance - could that be you? We have an exciting contest schedule including the Scottish Open and and full set of new Besson basses!


Tewit Silver Band

October 4 • Principal Eb Bass. Our established bass section are looking for a strong leader to elevate their performance - could that be you? We have an exciting contest schedule including the Scottish Open and and full set of new Besson basses!


David A. Stowell


Conductor and composer


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd