The sound of music has well and truly returned to our schools, following the eerie silence of the pandemic.
In Byron – as across the region and the world – school closures, lockdowns and Covid distancing rules had a harsh impact on school band programs.
But regeneration is underway. In partnership with the Northern Rivers Conservatorium, like other schools, Byron Bay Public’s band program is bouncing back big time.
Little Hippos
A new brass ensemble (pictured) has blasted off, while a new junior band – curiously nicknamed the Little Hippos – is rolling along nicely. At the same time, the school’s senior band is getting funky and may soon be spotted at local markets or on the streets busking.
A generous donation from the school’s P&C is helping all this regeneration, with new instruments, scholarships, and resources to bring in visiting musicians.
Next term, the entire school will be wowed by a visit from a local New Orleans brass band.
Youth jazz orchestra
Along with a performance and ‘second line’, the band will run a short workshop to inspire more young students to learn a brass or woodwind instrument.
Also coming is an exciting visit from the Northern Rivers Conservatorium’s Youth Jazz Orchestra, as part of their multi-school tour.
If you or a loved one has a primary aged student keen to learn an instrument and play in a school band, there may never be a better time.
• Ray Moynihan is working as Band Manager at Byron Bay Public School.
Brass snorkels for Splendour?
So good to see encouragement for kids to acquire a lifelong asset that enhances the community. So different from the vacuous rah rah for competitive sport, and noisy pastimes like riding powered bikes around yards.
I have seen law and veterinary students play piano or flute to relieve stress. It is way better for the brain than contact sports.
The band program at Byron Public is brilliant!