Learn to play

Beginners

Our Beginner Band Program is a fun and affordable way to learn an instrument in a group setting.

The program caters for anyone who would like to learn to play a brass, woodwind, or percussion instrument.

You don’t need to own an instrument to participate as we have instruments available for you to try and hire. Read more about instruments for hire.

The Beginner Band Program is open to adults and young people alike. Our recommended minimum starting age is 10 years old (as of 1 January).

Program structure
The program commences with a weekend workshop in late February / early March, followed by weekly two-hour rehearsals during the school year.

At the initial weekend workshop, tutors from the Clarence City Band will instruct you on how to hold, care for, and produce sound from your instrument. You will also be introduced to reading music and playing in a band setting.

We use Tradition of Excellence books to teach music theory, music history, ear training, listening, and composition through a performance-based approach.

You are welcome to play with us for up to four weeks for free before you decide to become a member of the Clarence City Band. After this period, we ask you to become a member and, if using one of our instruments, pay for instrument hire.

Register your interest
In 2023, the Level 1 Beginner Band rehearses on Thursdays, 5-7pm. If you are interested in joining or want to find out more about the Beginner Band Program, please fill out and submit this form.