History of the St. George Brass Band
The group that was to become St. George Brass Band was formed at the beginning of 2000 with about 10 players. Since then, the band has grown and there is a strong emphasis on teaching younger players and supporting community based activities.
The first public performance was given under the name "Kogarah District Brass Band" and took place in the historic rotunda in Woodville Park, Hurstville on Sunday 25th June, 2000. The name was changed to St.George Brass Band when the Band was incorporated on 26th September, 2000.
Players present at first performance, 25th June, 2000. Early rehearsals were held at Rockdale Senior Citizens Hall where there was no storage room and we often had to move rehearsals because the Hall
was being used by other groups.
From 2003, rehearsals moved to St.Paul's Anglican Church Hall on Princes Hwy, Kogarah but
renovations to this venue removed our storage space.
From 2010, we have been rehearsing at Bexley School of Arts where we have excellent facilities.
The St. George Brass Band Junior Band performing at the State Championships in 2002
In years past, the St. George region has been a region rich in brass bands. Unfortunately all of these bands either folded or introduced reed players. The St. George Brass Band aims to bring interest in brass bands back to people living in the St. George district through community involvement and encouraging players of all generations.
In 2002, the Band purchased marching coats from America. The original set was extended by a local makers. Matching caps were made by Sentry Uniforms, New York in 2009.
Lower brass section at Roselands Shopping Centre, August 2002. The first rehearsal was held on Australia Day 2000 in the Rockdale Senior Citizens Hall
which was provided free by Rockdale Council. Whenever the Hall was required for a multicultural
festival, the Band had to find another venue. As the Musical Director was the organist at St.Paul's Anglican Church in Kogarah, we were able to move our rehearsals to their church hall
and this led to a long association, including several St.George's Day concerts. A major change
in the priorities of the congregation led the Band to seek another venue. In 2010, the Band
moved to Bexley School of Arts where we have use of a large hall, small tutorial rooms
and excellent secure storage.
In 2013, the Band entered a close relationship with Earlwood - Bardwell Park RSL
through which we support all ceremonies such as Anzac Day and Remembrance Day.
We acknowledge the grants provided by Kogarah City Council and, later, Georges River Council, which have enabled the growth
of the Band.
Some of the Band's successful entrants, Sydney Metropolitan Solo and Ensemble Championships 2007.
St,George Brass on stage at State Championships 2010
Members of St.George Brass Band outside Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre, 2010