When the Campbelltown-Camden District Band was founded in 1946, shortly after World War II, rehearsals were held in the local Cordial Factory, with members sitting on empty drink crates.
The first public performance by the band was at the Campbelltown Show in 1948.
The band transitioned from a brass band to a concert band in the 1970s, adding woodwind instruments to broaden its musical range.
Today, a year short of its 80th “birthday’’, the band is made up of around 70 members ranging in age from seven to 83 years old.
The Wind Ensemble caters to more experienced musicians, the Daytones for “young at heart’’ musicians, and the Intermediate Band and Foundation Band for learners.
The Foundation Band is for people of all ages who are interested in learning a musical instrument as part of a friendly and supportive group.
Plans are under way to celebrate the band’s 80 years, but in the meantime the show must go on, including promotion of the year’s last concert later this month.
“This has been a busy year for the band,’’ says a spokesperson.
“We recently travelled to Condobolin in Western NSW for the Condobolin Tattoo which included a street march, display march and sit down performance at the local Sports Club.
“Campbelltown-Camden District Band is an affiliated sub-club of the Campbelltown Catholic Club, and we are grateful for the club’s ongoing, generous support.’’
The end of year concert, Shadows to Light, will be on Sunday, October 26, from 2pm in The Cube, Campbelltown Catholic Club. Tickets are $10.
“The audience can expect a range of musical styles and genres – there is something for everyone to enjoy,’’ the band spokesperson said.
“The Foundation Band will make its debut on stage. Georgina Smith, our Intermediate Band conductor, will lead a combined band performance of Sail by the Stars, by Australian composer Tim Ferrier.
“Featuring a mix of popular, traditional and symphonic music this concert promises to be a fabulous opportunity for our community to experience the joy of live music.
“Come and share the afternoon with Campbelltown Camden District Band – we look forward to seeing you there.’’
Tickets can be purchased from The Cube’s website here: https://www.thecube.net.au/whats-on/ccbc/
For updates, follow the band on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/CampbelltownCamdenDistrictBand
The band has always been a feature of celebrations in the area since I first went to Campbelltown in 1959 and always under the baton of a Mr Pollard. I am pleased it is still making music and I hope a Pollard is still waving the baton