Frequently Asked Questions

Who is in the Brisbane Symphonic Band?

One of the greatest things about the band is our diversity. We have people of all ages, genders, professions, and musical abilities. 

How old are the Brisbane Symphonic Band members?

We are an adult band and our members are 17 years of age or older. 

Where does the band rehearse?

We rehearse at the Anglican Parish hall of 23 Victoria St, Clayfield. Check out our contact us page for more details. 

When does the band rehearse?

BSB Swing rehearses on Wednesday evenings from 6.15pm. Symphonic band rehearsal is straight afterwards from 7:30pm. We sometimes rehearse on weekends leading up to major performances or events. 

What is the band's uniform?

Our uniform consists of an embroidered polo shirt featuring the band's logo, priced at $35. For formal concerts, we ask that members wear a black button-up shirt. You are welcome to wear your own shirt or purchase one of our formal black shirts with embroidery, available for $40.

Does the band break for school holidays?

We rehearse and perform for most of the year. We typically start rehearsals in the last week of January and finish just before Christmas. 

What instruments are in the Symphonic Band?

The symphonic band has brass, woodwind, percussion and string instruments including flute, clarinet, oboe, bassoon, saxophone, French horn, trumpet, trombone, euphonium, tuba, string and electric bass, tuned and untuned percussion. 

Which sections currently have vacancies?

While our saxophone and flute section are currently full, all other sections have vacancies. We are in particular need of clarinets and brass.

Do I need to have my own instrument?

Yes – unless you are a percussionist. 

What type of music is played by the Symphonic Band?

The symphonic band plays a wide variety of music including orchestral transcriptions, movie and musical themes, contemporary wind band pieces and other popular repertoire. 

How hard is the music?

The symphonic band can sight read at a grade 3 level and frequently plays grade 4 or grade 5 pieces very well. 

When does the Symphonic Band rehearse?

Symphonic band rehearses on Wednesday evenings from 7.30pm. We sometimes rehearse on weekends leading up to major performances or events. 

When does the Symphonic Band perform?

The symphonic band performs between 6 and 10 times a year. Most performances are on a Sunday afternoon. Have a look at our events page to find out more. 

What instruments are in BSB Swing?

BSB Swing has brass, woodwind and rhythm sections and includes saxophone, trumpet, trombone, string or electric bass, guitar, keyboard, drums, tuned and untuned percussion. 

Which sections currently have vacancies?

While our saxophone section is full, we do have vacancies on trumpet and trombone and guitar. 

What type of music is played by BSB Swing?

BSB Swing plays traditional and contemporary big band music in styles such as jazz, blues, funk, rock, neo-swing and Latin. 

How hard is the music?

BSB Swing can sight read at a medium level (grade 3) and frequently plays medium difficult (grade 4) or difficult (grade 5) pieces very well. 

When does BSB Swing Rehearse?

BSB Swing rehearses on Wednesday evenings from 6.15pm. We sometimes rehearse on weekends leading up to major performances or events. 

When does BSB Swing perform?

BSB Swing performs between 6 and 10 times a year. Most performances are on a Sunday afternoon or Saturday evenings. Have a look at our events page to find out more. 

Is it possible to just join BSB Swing?

No – BSB Swing is comprised of members from our symphonic band. 

How do I join the band?

Joining the band is easy. Simply come along to a couple of rehearsals to see if the band is right for you. If you would like to go ahead and join, just fill in the membership application and pay your membership fee.  

Are all new members welcome?

The band loves welcoming new members and we always try our best to accommodate everyone who wants to join. Sometimes, our sections are full and we can’t accept any more members in that section without upsetting the balance of the band. 

Do I have to audition?

No – we just ask you to be honest about whether the music is at the right level for you (i.e. not too hard or not too easy). We also ask that you do whatever practice you need to match the band’s playing standard. This may be more for some people than for others. 

What AMEB grade should I be?

Many people in the band do not have AMEB qualifications. However, if graded, most of our players would be about AMEB grade 4 and up. 

Is there a membership fee?

Yes – it is $180 per year. There are payment options available to make this easier. 

What does the membership fee go towards?

We use the membership fee to pay our musical director and swing band leader, rental for our rehearsal venue, to buy music and to cover other administrative expenses.

What is expected of band members?

We have a membership agreement and a social contract, which describes the expectations we have for our members. You will need to agree to these upon becoming a member. 

When will I be able to take music home to practice?

You will be allocated a folder and music once you have completed your membership application and paid your membership fees. 

What else does the band do apart from playing music?

In addition to playing, the band is also very socially active. We often go out as a group after rehearsals and performances and organise social events throughout the year. 

Are there any other benefits for members of the band?

Yes – a partnership with Ellaways Music provides members of the Brisbane Symphonic Band with access to a number of discounts and offers in store.