AN APPRECIATIVE crowd was on hand to hear the Casterton Vice Regal band in concert at the Town Hall, for its ‘Keeping the Beat’ performance.
It was a significant concert debut for new members Sophia Beaton, Charlotte Rhook (Clarinets), Evelyn Rhook, Richard Newnham (Trumpets) and Nick Mewburn (Drums).
Bandmaster Michael McNamara led the band through a mixed repertoire which was well received, with guest artists and vocalists Ava and Isabella Zappia alongside Great-Grandfather Harry Cottier delivering heartfelt performances.
Another guest artist Tegan Elmes also tested the band’s musical versatility during the concert, getting band members to back up her solo vocal rendition of the Beatles’ ‘Hey Jude’.
Band spokesman, Craig Wood said the concert gave the band the opportunity to work hard on improving its musical performance in front of an audience.
“With support from Glenelg Shire Council, we’ve been putting some activities in place to get the band into performing before an audience again following the Covid-19 pandemic, all designed to lift the standard of performance,” Mr Wood said.
“When it comes to performing for an audience, the more experience we get then the better we become as an ensemble.”
The concert provided the band with an opportunity to farewell long serving player Brian Sherry and his wife Betty, who have both dedicated many years of service to the band.
The next outing for the band will be a trip to Horsham to help that city’s band celebrate their 150th year.
With marching and a community concert forming part of proceedings, the local band will continue to be hard at work through October.
Upon their return from Horsham, the band will hit the rehearsal room with a learner’s workshop and ongoing preparation for a series of community Christmas carol performances to finish up the year.
Local residents are asked to keep an eye and ear out for the local band in December as they plan to be popping up in various locations, spreading some Christmas cheer through music.
