Preparation for Nationals Recording Weekend
So far this year the band have been working towards recording four works to submit for the 2021 Online National Bands Championship.
March: The Wizard
Concert Item: Procession to the Minster
Sacred Item: Gammal Fäbodpsalm från Dalarna
Major Work: Spectrum
As well as our regular Monday and Thursday rehearsals we've had a couple of weekend rehearsals and a handful of sectionals. Dedication paired with a positive attitude has lead to great sounds and much fun (see below) Louisa Trewartha MD
...and we're back!
Williamstown Treated to the Sounds of Brass
A massive congratulations to members of Western Brass, Footscray-Yarraville City Percussion Academy, and Footscray-Yarraville City Band on their performances on Saturday 19th of December at the Williamstown Foreshore Rotunda. This was Western Brass' MD Jared McCunnie's first conducting gig with his band, having been appointed back in February.FYCB will now be working towards the Nationals recording sessions. Can't wait!Louisa MD
In-Person Once More
Finally Band... Not Banned
Following the COVID-normal guidelines the band has been able to meet in-person for the first time since March. Working in ensembles the band played Christmas carols, much to the delight of many park-goers.
FYCB busy online in 2020
The band has continued to shine online, adapting quickly to online meetings since March, 2020.In Term 2 we met for warm-ups and recorded weekly challenges, keeping each other motivated during the difficult period.Throughout Term 3, having gone into lockdown No. 2, the band partook in the Halfa With a Master series. This was a series of 30 minute interviews with 10 professional musicians from around the world who donated their time to chat to host Louisa and the band about all things music: routine, career stories, tools for performance anxiety, repertoire ideas and more. We are so grateful to all the Masters who took the time to chat with us!
In Term 4 we are continuing warm ups and being mentored by three professional musicians in their area of expertise: high brass, low brass, and percussion. Each month band members submit a recording of a piece to receive feedback on. Repertoire themes include: October- articulation and/ or dynamics, November- lyricism, December- own choice.Now that restrictions are easing, we hope to be playing together soon!
FYCB & WB at Yarra Valley Chocolaterie
What a delightful way to spend a Sunday afternoon!
The combined band played a 45 minute set of entertainment items for a crowd of brass band fans and visitors (aka newly converted brass band fans.) We were spoiled with a chocolate tasting that showcased the huge range available. Thanks to Marc Nethercot from Northern Brass for the invitation to perform and to Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery for having us.
Scraggers Support the 'scrAyFLW
The band performed for spectators of the Western Bulldogs vs Melbourne Demons as they filed in through the gates.Though the drizzle was threatening, Daughters of the 'Scray and a selection of pop tunes, including Valentines Day themed, were enjoyed by the footy fans. A wonderful team effort! 
Footscray RSL Centenary Anniversary
An ensemble of FYCB and WB members lead a march
from Footscray Memorial Gardens down Geelong Road to the Footscray RSL on Saturday morning, 18th of January. A ceremony was then held, with the band performing national anthems, and Brenton Burley playing the Last Post. 
FYCB relocated in 2020
The band has been relocated to Victoria University: Footscray Nicholson Campus, just 500 metres away from our 10a Hyde Street location. The VU campus is just west of the train line, still a short walk from Footscray Station.The Hyde Street location is perfect for the development of an early learning centre to be built adjacent to the school. More information about this project here.
The 26th Carols in the Gardens
A Cheerful Carols at Yarraville Gardens
We had a wonderful time hosting the 2019 Yarraville Carols in the Gardens. The evening was compèred by the multi-talented Chelsea Plumley; music lead by Louisa Trewartha with the combined forces of Footscray-Yarraville City Band, Western Brass, and the Hyde Street Youth Band; a joyful massed choir made up of local choirs; and special guests Nina Ferro, Andrew Broadbent, Naomi Cochrane, Belinda Sofra, John Connors, Byron Crump, and special mention to Felicity Baldock who didan amazing job filling in last minute for Margaret Haggart.With an enthusiastic and ever-increasing crowd before us, and due to much thoughtful planning by the FYCB committee (particularly Kathryn Cooper) the event was relaxed, enjoyable, and thus a huge success.Thanks to everyone who attended. See you next year!