The Riverina Concert Band, whilst being an affiliated Ensemble of the Riverina Conservatorium of Music (RCM), actually operates as a community band. It is an independent organisation coming under the supervision of a management committee that is elected annually from the ranks of its financial members.

Objectives:

The Band exists to provide a venue for amateur and semi-professional musicians to come together to practice and enjoy their craft, whilst at the same time, provide an opportunity for ‘up-and-coming’ musicians to develop their musical skills. We especially welcome the musically motivated youth of our region.

Membership:

Membership is open to all (age is not a consideration) who play brass, wind or percussion instruments. There is also opportunities for vocalists.

Students from local High Schools and the RCM are actively encouraged to join but should consult their teacher first. Auditions are not currently required but members should have a reasonable proficiency on their chosen instrument – the equivalent of about Grade 4 (AMEB) is generally considered to be the minimum standard.

Cost:

Members of the Band pay a tuition fee of $60 per term to the RCM to cover overheads. This figure is also augmented from the Band's own finances which consists of income derived mainly from donations and 'gig' fees.  In addition, the Band Constitution requires a nominal joining fee of $1.00 plus a membership fee of $1.00 per year.

Commitment:

Two-hour rehearsals are held every Tuesday at the RCM (No. 1 Simmons Street Wagga Wagga), commencing at 7PM. Rehearsals may be suspended during school holidays at the discretion of the Musical Director. In addition, the ensemble regularly provides live entertainment for the local community where members can exhibit the musical skills acquired.

Musical Director:

The Music Director is appointed by the RCM. The current appointee is Tamara Spencer, B.Mus (Syd), MTeach (USYD).

Tamara began playing trumpet at age 10, after previously learning piano and guitar. Growing up in a small regional community meant limited opportunities to play and learn from other musicians, but in 2002 she became a student at the Riverina Conservatorium of Music, and was the recipient of the Brass Scholarship for the next several years. In 2007 Tamara completed her Bachelor of Music Studies at the Conservatorium of Music in Sydney, and then went on to study education, graduating with a Masters of Teaching in 2009.

After a brief stint of classroom teaching, living and travelling overseas and starting a family, Tamara found herself back at the Riverina Conservatorium of Music in 2016 teaching Trumpet, Trombone, French Horn and Euphonium. Since returning to teaching Tamara has developed her passion for working with ensembles, conducting multiple school bands around Wagga. In 2017 she started the RCM’s Junior Brass Ensemble, and in 2019 became the Music Director of the Riverina Concert Band.

How To Join:

Persons seeking membership or further information are encouraged to initially contact one of the following: -

President:  Alasdair Billingham 0408 540 449

Music Director:  Tamara Spencer 0459 583 541

Secretary:  Don Pembleton 0417 495 266

RCB - Christmas with the Con 2023