Pre-Nationals Concert 2026

Another exciting part of the journey to the Australian National Band Championships every year is the pre-Nationals concert! Last weekend, players from Hyde Street Junior and Youth Bands, together with brass players from Ivanhoe Girls Grammar school, undertook a Workshop with marvellous Helen Williams, a renowned Flugelhorn player from the UK! Two lucky players also had the opportunity to undertake a Masterclass, playing their upcoming Australian National Band Championships solo entries, and all players had the opportunity to gain important solo advice.

This was followed by an opportunity to hear Helen play, a concert with their combined Ivanhoe Girls/Hyde Street ensemble, an opportunity to perform a selection of Junior A and Open C selections, as well as enjoy the City of Greater Dandenong Band (Melbourne) and Glenferrie Brass performances. Many thanks to Ivanhoe Girls’ Grammar School for being able to play in such a wonderful venue! Another highlight was the amazing cooking of Duc Stockman – haven’t seen mini cupcakes as exciting as these for years! And thanks to our wonderful Musical Directors, Phillipa Edwards and Fern Gass, for your dedication and energy.

Photos: Linda Ely