At FNB, we have three distinct band groups that aim to cater to a wide variety of needs. Our goal when we formed in 2011 was to bring music to as many people as possible. Over the last 15 years, we have been able to achieve so many of our goals, primarily with one band. 

We began rehearsals in a very small, echoey hall with only about 7 players, but quickly grew to a full band. We began competing in the National Brass Band Competition in 2018 in Melbourne, and in the following year in Brisbane, we walked away as D Grade Champions. A massive achievement for such a young band. 

Of course, anyone who has been in the banding world knows that competitions, while fun, are a lot of hard work and usually only take a small part of the year. Our main band performs regularly in and around Cairns, with monthly gigs at the Tanks Markets, performances at community events, such as ANZAC Day, commemorative days for the RSL and Police, festivals and Bunnings family days.

We perform a wide range of music, ranging from the classic Neil Diamond, to Ed Sheeran, Disney themes, and classic rock anthems, and of course, we wouldn’t be a brass band without hymns and marches. 

We are a fun group, with rehearsals being very sociable affairs between songs, but it is definitely all about the music. We would love to see anyone come along and play. If you have played previously and want to step back into it, or if you have recently moved to the region, stop in and say hi! 

The academy band is a much smaller group of people who come together to improve on specific skills.  This is generally for people who have played previously but want to improve before joining the main band. It is ideal for those who have played different instruments in the past, and can read music, and want to try a brass instrument. 

The group rehearses for 45 minutes, running through basic skills and small ensemble playing. We do have a variety of instruments available for hire/use. 

If you think this is for you, have a look at the rehearsal times and contact us to get more information.

The beginner band is a program designed for absolute beginner players. And we can assure you, it is never too late to learn! 

Whether you are 5 years old or 80, the benefits of music are so vast. It is amazing for your brain, and it has been proven to significantly help mental cognition as we age. If you’ve never picked up an instrument, and have no idea how to read music… 

This is the group for you….

The beginner band runs in a ten-week cycle. Each week we have a 30 minute rehearsal, where you learn the very basics of playing a brass instrument. This includes reading music, correct technique to play an instrument, and the ability to play short pieces of music. At the end of the ten-week cycle you can either repeat the program to continue building confidence, or advance into the academy. 

But I don’t have an instrument… 

That’s ok! We know that musical instruments can be relatively expensive, particularly if you aren’t sure about whether it’s for you or not. With our beginner program, you have the option of hiring an instrument so you can practice at home. For more information, please feel free to contact us directly.