Brassing off for 75 wonderful years
Brassing off for 75 wonderful years
November 25, 2009
Section: After Hours
JENNA THOMPSON
BOB Wallbaum fondly remembers it like it was yesterday when, 56 years ago, he first started playing with the Wollongong City Brass Band at the age of 13.
“My father told me about it, so one Saturday morning in a little old tin shed down in Church Street, they tested me on a few instruments to see what suited,” he recalled.
Formed by the late Jack Tougher in 1934 and originally named the Wollongong Steelworks Brass Band, the group has grown into a rich part of the Illawarra’s history.
“The band has gone from strength to strength over the last ten years which now consists of a Junior Band, and a Social Band as well as the main Senior Band,” Bob said.
“This year the band initiated a Brass in Schools Programme and is currently operating at both Coniston and Wollongong Public Schools with interest being shown by other schools in the area. The band assists with the supply of brass instruments free of charge and has also organised a professional tutor. When pupils reach a suitable level, they will then progress as members into the City of Wollongong Junior Brass Band. Bob said new members are always welcome.
For anyone wanting more information, please phone 4228 6018 leave a message and someone will return your call.
Tickets for the 75th Anniversary Jubilee Concert can be purchased at the IPAC box office by phoning 4224 5999.
JUBILEE BRASS CELEBRATIONS
Illawarra Performing Arts Centre
Saturday, November 28
