Junior Music Makers

Jason Grimstead baritone saxaphone and fellow musicians

THE city's junior concert band is primarily a training ground for those wishing to enter the senior band, but also provides a lot of pleasure for players and audiences.

The group, formerly a brass band for about 10 years, has just become a concert band with the addition of woodwind instruments.

Members had their first public performance as a concert band last month. The band has 40 members but is hoping to attract more, according to band master Hugh Davies.

Many juniors who have played in it have gone onto bigger and better things, with six or so now full time professional music teachers.

According to Hugh Davies, the band provides something extra for the serious musician, apart from musical activities at school. It enables students to continue music at a higher level, as well as developing individual talents. ''They can enjoy really music away from the school atmosphere,'' he adds.

While called a junior band, it is not restricted to students - adults are more than welcome to join.

The band is one of this area's best B grade bands, and has performed well in competitions. "Early last year at Bendigo we gave an A grade band quite a fright, finishing only a few points behind in a competition,'' says a proud Hugh.

Under his baton the band plays many types of music including rock, jazz and show themes. "I try to expose the kids to all styles so they can get an idea of what they like. ''With some styles they may not have played before, they try it and find they like it."

The band strives to encourage youth, particularly in a city Sale's size. Says Hugh: "We have to rely on kids to keep numbers up in the senior band." About 10 of the keener members also play in the senior band.

Another attraction of the band is the social side according to Hugh it is like a youth club that plays music! "We're always looking for new members, would like as many instruments as possible," he adds.

Instruments the band would particularly like more of in its strength are flute, oboe , clarinet, saxaphone, bassoon, cornet, trumpet, trombone, horn, euphonium, drums, xylophone, glockenspiel and timpani.

The band plays easy to difficult music, so the something for all capabilities. It breaks during holidays, but will resumes the first Friday of school term.

The band meets each Friday at 4 p.m. in the band room, Foster Sale.