Unley Concert Band has been in existence since 1997. We aim to offer musicians the highest quality of amateur musicianship in Adelaide. Since the bands inception we have provided service to the community and the South Australian Band Association. Our commitment to the Anzac Day Parade is held in high regard by the community.

The Band was formed in 1997 and has grown in that time to over 50 players, with a solid reputation.

Unley Concert Band meets in the Unley Town Hall (with a grant from the Unley Council each year), on Wednesday evenings 7.30 -9.30pm. (Approximately 40 + rehearsals in the year). Our players range from 16 years old to 82 years. We are looking to grow the band to approximately 70 players. We ask everyone to bring their playing friends along too. Being a Community Band, there is no audition, however, the arrangement is that if you find the music too challenging, or not to your liking, you are able to cease your playing with the band quite happily.The Music Director has the right to ask a player to leave as well. The Band currently competes at State and National A Grade level.

OCCASIONS TO PLAY

We usually play for Anzac Day (marching in the city), at least two concerts and friendly competitions of our own, a Bands festival in Strathalbyn in August, State Championships through South Australian Bands Association, with whom we are registered; hopefully and interstate concert or competition, the Credit Union Pageant in November and other Christmas pageants, (marching), as they earn good money for the band to buy music and equipment. There are always extra gigs during the year. Please pick up the programme for the year and be prepared for additions and changes.

UNIFORM

The Band launched a new uniform in 2011. Our shirt has the double blue stripes of Unley and is a bright, bold and distinctive statement about the community we represent. The shirts are made by a local uniform manufacturer and are purchased outright by members of the band. Our shirt is worn with black trousers, socks and shoes. Full details about purchasing a uniform are available to all new members. The uniform can be ordered online. Please contact the secretary to gain access to the instructions for ordering.

A woven black ‘acubra’ style hat completes the outdoor uniform, provided by the band. Some members have black zip up jackets with Unley Concert band logo on the front. Your own black jacket will suffice in the meantime.

FEES

Band members pay $100 per annum or $60 per annum for students and concession holders.

The Treasurer will invoice when the fees are due. Please ensure that this is paid promptly for the financial well-being of the band. Those having financial difficulties can approach a member of the Executive Committee, preferably the Treasurer, to request alternate arrangements.

For players who come to play part way through the year may have a negotiated rate to be discussed with the Treasurer.

MUSIC FOLDERS

There are two folders from which we play.

1. A 3 ring blue folder contains the ‘play out music’ or entertainment music. Please ensure that your own folder is up to date. See the Librarian if you are missing any music.
2. The flat dark blue folder contains the repertoire currently being rehearsed and/or performed.

Under no circumstances are the members allowed to take band folders home. Please leave them in the suitcase/boxes so that the Librarian has access to them between rehearsals.

MUSIC STANDS

The band has some music stands that you can use, stored in the storeroom upstairs, however, you are encouraged to bring your own to ensure that the band stands stay in good condition for performances.

MARCHING

For marching performances, you will require a lyre suitable for your instrument. If you are unsure where to get one, please see your section leader for a recommendation. It is essential that you get one before your first marching engagement as the band does not own any.

The uniform is important for maintaining a cohesive look, particularly in competitive marching. Polished shoes and instrument and a neatly pressed uniform are essential.

SETTING AND PACKING UP

We ask everyone to come by no later than 7.15pm on Wednesday evenings to assist in setting up the hall with chairs, percussion equipment, and a table for information, so that we can be ready for tuning and warm up exercises at 7.30pm. Percussion is setup from 7:00 pm.

CONTACT PERSON

A weekly roll is kept of attendance. If you are unable to attend a rehearsal or a performance, you are asked to contact the Secretary as soon as possible.