Beginnings & background

The Goolwa Concert Band was formed in 1986 as a brass band called the Goolwa & District Citizens Band. We became a concert band in 1998 in order to cater for a broader range of instruments played by many younger people in our community. We are an incorporated organisation run entirely by volunteers, and since music and instrument repairs can be expensive, we depend on donations. We have had support from the Alexandrina Council, the Goolwa Hotel Social Club, the Goolwa Craft Fair and the Goolwa Lions Club amongst others.

The Goolwa Concert Band is affiliated with the South Australian Band Association.

Where we play

The band performs at community events such as Australia Day, Goolwa Alive celebrations and Christmas Carols for towns in the Alexandrina Council area - Goolwa, Port Elliot, and Middleton. . The band has played in the Strathalbyn Band Festival since its inception in 2001. We also host our own concert each year, filling Centenary Hall in Goolwa with appreciative audiences.

Leadership

We are fortunate to have Leon Lambert as our current musical director and we enjoy his lively style and enthusiasm .

Music

Our repertoire ranges from traditional band music and old-style pieces to pieces for specific occasions and Christmas carols. We also play many pieces selected to appeal to the younger members of the band and younger audiences .

Instruments

The following instruments are currently represented in the band:

trombone euphonium french horn B flat bass baritone sax

trumpet tenor saxophone alto saxophone clarinet bass guitar

flute drums

Joining the band

The band is always looking for new members who play any instrument, but at the moment we particularly need percussion, tuba, and trumpet players. You don't need to live in Goolwa to play with us - some of our players come from regional towns or even Adelaide. If you play an instrument or are interested in learning one, please get in touch with us. Our annual membership fee is $35 ($50 for families), and we have several instruments available for hire to members at nominal rates.

Uniform

Our uniform is a white polo shirt (available for purchase), navy jacket (purchase subsidised by band), navy pants or skirt, black shoes and socks, and a blue hat.

Rehearsal times

We rehearse on Tuesday evenings from 7:00 pm to 9:15 pm. New members, visiting players, or interested people are always welcome, so if you are in Goolwa on a Tuesday night come along and meet us!