With an experienced team of administrators, tutors and directors, Waitakere Brass’ new youth band promises to be the training ground for the band's stars of the future.

The Launch

The training scheme was officially launched at the band's recent sell-out 'Toys 4 Kids' concert where, thanks to a targeted marketing campaign and local PR, the audience was filled with budding young musicians keen to enter the world of brass.

Children at the concert were given the opportunity to interact with players from the band and to have a go at playing an instrument at the end of the concert to raise interest in the program.

Up and running

A reception evening was held the following week and the Waitakere Youth Band is now up and running with a small group of enthusiastic players.

The band is being headed by Waitakere's Musical Director, Steven Booth, and Solo Horn player, Claire Whyte.

Claire, a classroom music teacher in her life outside of band, is well known throughout the Auckland region for her work with youth, having worked with the Kumeu Auxilliary Band.

Both Steven and Claire are looking forward to developing a program where youth of all ages can enjoy everything brass bands have to offer.

Quality

The scheme is designed to provide quality tuition for children wishing to learn a brass instrument, as well as the opportunity for young people to play together in a band.

Students receive weekly individual lessons, theory tuition, band participation and an instrument to use. Both beginners and more experienced players from 7 years of age are welcome to join.

Rehearsals

The youngsters started their first rehearsals three weeks ago, meeting on Monday evenings from 7pm and finishing up just as Waitakere's A Grade Band arrive for rehearsal.

The timing is proving popular with the children, as they enjoy watching the senior band play and are already eyeing up which seat they want in the future!

Register your interest

Anyone interested in learning a brass instrument or joining the youth band is invited to register their interest by contacting Claire Whyte at waitakereyouth@hotmail.com.