The concert band is a non-auditioned band for musicians aged 9 and up with no upper limit. Concert Band includes brass, wind and percussion instruments. The concert band is a supportive environment for young musicians to learn or further ensemble skills and etiquette, building the musical skills of the students. In a normal year, the band performs regularly throughout the year, including at the National Eisteddfod and Floriade.
As a guide, musicians should have been learning their instruments for around a year before joining Concert Band. Particularly keen students and those picking up a second instrument may be ready earlier. Concert Band repertoire ranges from AMEB grade 1-4 level. There is no requirement for students to be actually undertaking AMEB grades in order to join Concert Band.
Music is chosen from a wide range of styles and genres, including classical, jazz, contemporary pop and movie greats. Repertoire has included Rockin’Robin, Panis Angelicus, Jazz Cat, Westport Overture and Gershwin Classics.
Our conductor Beth Way is an experienced and dynamic musician and music teacher. Musicians are welcome to come along and try out concert band for a couple of weeks to see if they enjoy the experience before joining. Musicians need to bring along their instrument, water bottle and a pencil to each session.
Beth Way is an experienced music educator, multi-instrumentalist, teacher and award-winning conductor based in Canberra. With over two decades of experience working in schools and community music programs, Beth is passionate about helping students grow in confidence, creativity and musical skill in a fun and supportive environment. Known for her energetic approach, warm personality and ability to bring people together through music, she creates engaging learning experiences for musicians of all ages and abilities. Whether conducting ensembles, teaching instrumental music or leading performances, Beth combines professionalism with a down-to-earth style that makes her a joy to work with.
Following 2 fantastic years growing as part of Belconnen Musicians, the concert band decided to change its name to Belconnen Youth Band (formerly known as Young Music Society Concert Band). This change cements our identity and continues to support us providing a friendly, fun and welcoming community band for musicians aged 9 and up.
At the end of 2023, the Young Music Society inc, made the decision to merge with In Full Swing.
This move also let us open the band to a wider community. Previously the band was for young musicians up to college and was restricted to school ages. Now we are trying to build and facilitate a community of musicians no matter what age - so our members can stay and contribute to the future of the band.
Please direct all enquires to Beth Way