CASTERTON is lucky to retain its little town band as many other places lose theirs to the pressures of modern life.

Having such a band to play at Anzac parades or town festivals, concerts and carols adds interest and character to the town, but have you considered that the opportunity to play in a band is also an asset?

Our band is made up of a wide variety of people, ranging from small children just starting to learn an instrument, to town elders with over half a century of experience.

We include local farmers, teachers, police, students, retirees, hospital staff, a gardener, a builder and your friendly local garden-centre proprietors.

Many members joined as children and never stopped, others played as children then started again after a long gap, while others join as adult beginners.

Casual observers may not realise that owning your own instrument or even knowing how to play one is not a necessary requirement of joining a community band.

Bands like ours are only too happy to loan an instrument or teach you how to play.

Enthusiasm and enough time to practice is the only thing you need in order to share the proven benefits of music in your life!