For the first time in more than half a century, the Footscray Yarraville City Band (FYCB) is officially the best in the land.
FYCB took out the A-grade competition at the Australian National Band Championships held at Xavier College in Melbourne over the Easter weekend, the first time it has won the national title since 1974.
The competition has four components: the hymn, stage march, test piece, and own choice, with FYCB finishing first in each to win the overall competitions ahead of Willoughby Band, Kensington and Norwood Brass, Geelong West Brass Band, Boroondara Brass, Glenferrie Brass and Holroyd Brass Band.
The band was conducted by Glyn Williams, who has played with some of the best brass bands in the UK including Fodens and Cory Band and who was hired specifically for the national championships.
Footscray MP Katie Hall was among those to congratulate the band on its drought breaking win.
“This is a remarkable achievement by one of the inner west’s most enduring and accomplished institutions,” Ms Hall said.
“Whether performing at local festivals, AFL matches or international concert halls, Footscray Yarraville City Band always carry themselves with professionalism, pride and purpose. This win is not just a recognition of musical talent, but a reflection of the strength of your community.”
The 150-year-old band didn’t have much time to celebrate its victory, performing at the Williamstown dawn service and the Melbourne march on Anzac Day.
FYCB can next be seen in concert next on Saturday June 14 at the Kensington Town Hall.
Details: https://shorturl.at/ZQLV8
