WELLINGTON NEWS Music makes its mark through the ages
FROM heralding the region’s first railway service in 1879 to honouring Wellington’s war veterans, the town band has played an important community role for 139 years.
Band master Rebecca Brine, who shares the role with long-serving member Eric Smith, said the group has an important place in the town’s social fabric.
“It was created as a brass band and its first performance was for when the train came to Wellington from Sydney.”
Rebecca said they perform at Anzac and Australia Day ceremonies as well as the Wellington Show and Vintage Fair events.
“We are still a marching band and follow that track still today,” she told Dubbo Photo News.
The Wellington Town Band has performed almost continuously since its inception in the 19th century.
“In 1942-1943, the band paused for the war. That’s the only time that they stopped.”
These days, the band performs at many local functions, cementing their place as a local icon.
“We try to perform in the community as much as we can – at Rotary markets, commemorative functions and the local nursing homes, along with major events. We have a strong link in the community.
“Part of this is how long-running the group is in Wellington. It is like a family.”
In fact, some musicians are even following in the attuned footsteps of previous generations.
“Kids are playing, parents are playing, it has a real family vibe,” Rebecca enthused.
“One member’s great-grandfather even played in the band (Charles and John Taylor).”
As the local high school music teacher, Rebecca already loves music and performance. Her place in the town band has reinforced that passion.
“Music is my life, I love it, so it’s good to be able to use my skills elsewhere.
“It’s also important for me as a music teacher to keep connected. Seeing the kids outside of school has also been beneficial. It’s a really good feeling.”
Rebecca loves the town and being able to contribute in such a positive way.
“I moved here five years ago. It’s such a wonderful community and being in the band is a lot of fun.
“I can conduct and play with the group as well. It makes you feel good to be able to share with others.”
Rebecca’s latest challenge is working on the music score of the upcoming local production of “My Fair Lady”, to be performed by the Wellington Amateur Theatrical Society.
She would also love to see some new members in the band.
“We are down on numbers at the moment. (Being in the band) is a wonderful opportunity to learn a new skill, meet new people and connect with the community.
“Music is everywhere and everything and everyone should benefit from that.”
Wellington Town Band practices at 5 Gisborne St, Wellington each Thursday between 6.30pm and 9pm. They are looking for new members, so contact band.treasurer@outlook.com.au for more information. Flute and Clarinet: Rebecca Brine (flute), Elizabeth Morley, Susan Morley