Player profiles

HAMILTON AUXILIARY BRASS BAND

PLAYER PROFILES

These are a mixture of recent and historical profiles of players. If you would like to contribute your band story, go to the bottom of this blog for the questions. Email or Messenger or write your information down on paper and get it to Sandra Ginever... I can't wait to upload more band stories...

INTRODUCING AMANDA NEAL (NEE LONGSHAW)

 Eb TUBA

 

In  2019 we heard at the regional contest that Amanda's tuba "Tubby" is a very important instrument indeed! When she purchased a car the only preference was that it could fit "Tubby" in the boot. That's dedication! Amanda is a talented soloist and the Kaitautoko for the Bass-line. Everyone can tell Amanda is passionate about her music, now to find out a little more about her musical journey.

When did you start learning music? I've always been surrounded by music, with a piano at home. I began playing music when I was six, my school had a recorder group which my mum taught. I had piano lessons for ten years but I didn't start learning brass until Year 9 (2008) when one of the itinerant teachers at the high school whipped out a trumpet and a whole lot of mutes and started making some really cool sounds. That's when I knew 'this was the instrument for me.' From the cornet I later moved to E Flat Bass in 2011 and I haven't looked back.  I can play the piano/keyboard, ukulele, guitar, valve trombone and my sister and I taught ourselves drums (we enjoy a couple of basic rock beats). My friend and I started a ukulele group at high school and we taught younger students. We performed at competitions for fun. We had our own act 'The Shaw thing' where we wrote parodies, original songs and covers of songs and performed at local concerts and gigs together, it was good fun and highly entertaining.

How long have you played in Brass Bands? I have been playing in brass bands since 2008. I began at Hawera Brass Band on cornet. I've had opportunities to play with the New Plymouth Brass Band, New Zealand Royal Navy Band and New Zealand Air Force band when they offered workshops to secondary school students in the Taranaki. I came to Hamilton Auxiliary in 2013 when I shifted to Hamilton for my studies at the university. I did have a year off in 2015 so I could  focus on my studies. 

Have you ever sat exams? I have never done a practical exam. The whole concept of someone judging me for doing my best at what I enjoy just isn't for me and makes me way too nervous.  However, I have sat some theory exams, Grade 1 & 2 through Modern School of Music and grades 2-6 music theory through the Royal School of Music. 

What is the best thing about playing for Hamilton Auxiliary Brass Band? The best thing is the people. We are one large banding family and I always feel I can be myself around everyone.

What is your favourite piece/tune to play? I would have to say Louie Louie or Cornfield Rock. These are two of the first pieces I played with Hawera Brass Band when I switched to Tuba. One of the more recent pieces I enjoyed playing was the Dark Side of the Moon.

What is your greatest memory of playing in a brass band? My greatest memory of brass banding was the 2011 band camp in the Taranaki. I have made lots of friends around the country through the brass band movement. I also enjoy attending regional and national contests and connecting with long lost bandies.

What is your favourite genre of music to listen to and/or play? I have a very eclectic music interest. I like old school rock and roll.

What advice would you give to new players? Music is not just what you do, its who you are. Sometimes life gets in the way but music is always going to be there. Learn to read music at the beginning. No matter how talented your listening skills are, any music group you join will require this skill. It sometimes even amazes non-musicians when you can read 'that stuff on the page.'

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INTRODUCING EMA PULE - Eb TUBA

For Ema Auxiliary Band is whanau (family).  She says she has little brothers and sisters, mothers and fathers in the band... Ema is a role model and a 'big sister' to younger players her energy and sense of fun is contagious. Thanks for sharing your story Ema.

 

When did you start learning music?? In 2010 when I was at school in Tonga - Tailulu College. I played there for two years before moving to New Zealand.  

What instruments have you played? I started playing the cornet for seven years. I had lessons at high school and since then I have been pretty much self-taught. I changed to the Eb Bass when Amanda asked me to join her in the Hawera Band for their ANZAC concert.

What bands have you played in? Tailulu College (2010-2012), Hamilton Auxiliary Brass (2012-present) and that time in Hawera Band. I also play in a Tongan band on either cornet or Eb Bass (2012-present). 

What is the best thing about being in Hamilton Auxiliary Brass? The bond I have formed with the lovely players who help me regardless of being self-taught or not knowing a whole lot of other things like tempo and names of articulations etc. They make me feel like I'm part of the band family and I feel like I belong. There are a lot of amazing people in band that are role models to me like a mum or dad or like a brother or sister. I consider them siblings and parents from another mother and father. I can just go on and on but words can't explain the bond I have with this band I JUST LOVE IT! 

What is your favourite piece of music?  I like all the test pieces we have played because I have learned a lot more than just fingering and the value of beats, its just beautiful.

What are your greatest memories of banding? My favourite memory is Christmas Carolling. The first time I experienced that in New Zealand was in 2018 and it is so different to the kind of carolling I grew up with in Tonga. It's similar but different and its a good thing though to experience new ways of doing things. 

What is your favourite music to listen to? I don't really have a favourite music genre but I mainly listen to Tongan entertainment music and songs. Other than that test pieces. 

What advice do you have for new players? Just join in, get on with it, it's fun!

 

 

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INTRODUCING GEOFF LEDGER - EUPHONIUM AND BARITONE (2024-2025 BAND MANAGER)

This, I am informed is Geoff's abridged version... As we all know Geoff has been around brass bands for a long time. Enjoy how his love of music from a small child has become a life long passion...

When did you start learning music? I started learning in 1965, my father loved big band music, we would listen to old 78rpm records on the radiogram. One day I asked if I could learn to play a trumpet and a couple of weeks later on a Saturday morning my dad and I jumped on our bikes and ended up at the Gisborne City Band room. The teacher said that Brass Bands played cornets and not trumpets, there were no trumpet tutors in Gisborne (so my dad told me). The band director looked at my jaw and said I was wrong for a cornet player but more suited to a trombone player so I started my banding journey on a trombone. A couple of years later he asked me to switch to baritone which I played for several bands and then later I went on to play the euphonium.  I tried one theory exam at age 12 and failed, this put me off exams. I have played for 47 years, I had some time away when the family grew but have been in Hamilton Auxiliary Brass for 24 years this coming October.  

What bands have you played in? Started my banding life with Gisborne City as a 19 year old I transferred to Hamilton City Brass Band, then I was transferred south and joined Mosgiel Municipal Band, then I transferred to Blenheim and played with Blenheim Municipal (now called Marlborough Districts), a transferred to Napier and I joined the Napier Technical Memorial Brass Band, then back to Wellington where I joined Porirua City Brass Band, then back to Napier where I rejoined Napier Tech band and finally work transferred me back to Hamilton and I joined the Hamilton Auxiliary Brass Band. (*editors note: This just goes to show that anywhere you travel in NZ if you're a keen bandit you'll find somewhere to play!)

What is the best thing about playing with Hamilton Auxiliary Brass Band? The band is a family, as you can see I've played in a few bands and the one constant has been family, there is always someone to talk to, someone to help if you need something or someone, you are never alone.

What is your favourite piece of music? Solitaire, McArthur Park, and from my early days the March, Wairoa it was the signature march of the Gisborne City Junior Brass Band back in 1970.

What have been your greatest memories in banding? Winning the C Grade title with Gisborne City at the Aucland nationals in 1976 and more recently winning the stage march with the Hamilton Auxiliary Brass Band at the national contest and coming third overall (Blair Standbridge musical director). More recently winning the D Grade title at the WBOP (Waikato Bay of Plenty) contest a couple of years ago. What made it really special was that on aggregate points Hamilton Auxiliary finished third out of nine competing bands on the day.

What is your favourite music to listen to? I have a very eclectic music genre, everything from brass, opera, jazz, big band, soul, rock and roll, not so keen on rap. My favourite band is Little Feat. Just love their beat.

Do you have any advice for new players? Listen, don't be afraid to ask questions and practice!

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 INTRODUCING TORRIE - PERCUSSIONIST/CORNET

  

Torrie joined Hamilton Auxiliary Brass in 2020 joining us after the country opened up after the Covid19 Lockdown. Now we are at Level 1 we are able to play again and Torrie jumped at the opportunity to play along with the band after being invited by her school friend and Auxiliary bass player Leighton.

When did you start learning to play music and what instruments do you play?  I was eight years old when I started on flute. I also play guitar, clarinet, violin, piano, alto sax, ukulele, harmonica and kit. Since joining the brass band I'm learning all the percussion instruments we have. I am currently studying NCEA Level 2 music at Morrinsville College.

What ensembles have you played in?  I started playing in a junior symphonic orchestra at Pirongia School and continued into Te Awamutu College, Morrinsville College Jazz Band, a couple of rock bands, violin ensembles, guitar ensembles, two choirs, flute choir, flute quartet, church band, trio with flute, violin and piano and now Hamilton City Brass Factory and Auxiliary Band.

What's the best thing about being in Hamilton Auxiliary Brass? It is awesome being around people who are keen about music and have fun with what they are doing.

What is your favourite tune to play? In band 1953 otherwise Andante 2nd movement in Bb minor for flute.

What is your favourite music genre to listen to and/or play? A hard question to answer, maybe Contemporary

Any advice for new players? If you think you can't do something or that you will never be good enough practice and keep practicing and most importantly never give up on what you are trying to achieve. Never give up on your musical ability because the only way to get better is to practice. You have to have grit to keep moving forward and keep trying.

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INTRODUCING QUENTIN GINEVER - FLUGEL HORN PLAYER OF HAMILTON AUXILIARY BRASS, NOW PLAYS 2ND CORNET IN HAMILTON CITY BRASS

Quentin, (or Q as some people call him) has worked hard for the last four years to improve his playing, starting on trumpet, moving to cornet and now flugelhorn. After years of 'playing for fun' he really got stuck into learning and performing as an adult and shown what people can do when they put their mind to it. Together with his family (wife Sandra, and children Leighton and Anessa) they share their love of music and brass banding together... the old saying comes to mind: The family that plays together stays together... let's see what Q has to say for himself.

When did you start learning to play music? I started learning trumpet when I was 11 years old. Our family had just moved to Hamilton and I had the opportunity to learn an instrument at my intermediate school. The trumpet stood out because it was shiny and loud.

What instruments have you played? Trumpet, cornet, and flugelhorn

 

Have you sat any exams? What was the experience like? When I was at high school, I sat up to grade 4 on trumpet. It was a while ago, but I don’t really recall it being too onerous, I just got on with it and did it.

 

How long have you played in brass bands? This is my fourth year playing in a brass band. Regretfully I was never introduced to it when I was younger, probably because my brass teacher at the time came from an orchestral background.

Have you played for other bands and ensembles? Just at high school. I went to Fraser High School in Hamilton, which had a very strong music department at the time, with a good size orchestra and a decent stage band.

 

How long have you played in Hamilton City Auxiliary Brass Band? Four years! Hamilton Auxiliary is the only brass band I’ve played in and it pretty much aligns with Te Reo’s time as MD. I had kept my trumpet and enjoyed picking it up now and then and having a toot. Then my son (Leighton) decided he wanted to play trumpet also, and his teacher Tracey Seifert invited him to come along to Brass Factory. We eventually both turned up with our instruments and then ended up staying for Auxiliary practice. I started on second cornet (initially playing a trumpet), moved to repiano cornet, went to the solo cornet for a while, moved back to repiano for a time and now I’m playing flugelhorn, which I absolutely love.

 

What is the best thing about playing in the Hamilton Auxiliary Brass Band? Right from the start, everyone was really welcoming and supportive – just as well, because I felt like a fish out of water for the first few months! I love coming to practice and seeing the band grow both in numbers and ability has been a real highlight. I’ve also found it helpful observing and learning from senior band members. When I was on repiano I sat beside Todd Smith, who helped us out playing soprano cornet. Now I get to sit beside Glenn Richards who is currently playing solo horn for us. I should also mention Lisa Marshall, who has been a great help since I moved to flugel.

 

What is your greatest memory of playing in a brass band? Winning the WBOP D grade in 2018 and coming third overall would have to be the highlight. Also playing at our home Nationals last year was a great experience.

 

What is your favourite piece/tune to play? I do love the test pieces, Te Reo has picked some real crackers for us over the last 3 years. Oregon would have to be my favourite because we won with it in 2018!

 

What is your favourite music genre to listen to and/or play? I like most genres with the exception of heavy metal and rap. I’m into Dire Straits, Queen, U2, Crowded House, etc which probably shows my age, but also like more recent stuff. I like classical and hymn music too, so I’m into a wide range.

 

Any advice for new players? Get lessons if you are able to. After joining the band I came to the realisation that if I really wanted to improve, I needed some expert direction. I’ve been learning from Colin Smith for around three years now and it is the best thing I could have done for my playing. Also make practising something you enjoy, rather than a chore that has to be endured. There is so much to think about when playing a brass instrument that even playing long notes should not be boring if you are concentrating on getting everything right.

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INTRODUCING WALTER HUGHES - FORMER AUXILIARY PLAYER - NOW IN HAMILTON CITY BRASS AS PRINCIPAL EUPHONIUM 

Walter is a shining example of what can happen with hard work and determination.  The last three and a half years have been jam packed with learning to play the cornet firstly in Brass Factory, Auxiliary and then the Senior Band. However, Walter has decided to come back to the Auxiliary Brass in order to fine tune his playing on the Euphonium. The confidence Walter plays with is very much due to hard work and nothing replaces hard work! If you want to play well, I suggest you read his sound piece of advice which is wisdom itself.

When did you start learning to play music? My mum started teaching me keyboard when I was eight years old. I picked up brass at 11 years old.

What instruments have you played? drums, cornet, trumpet, baritone, euphonium and bass guitar.

How long have you played in brass bands? 3.5 years.

How long have you played in Hamilton Auxiliary Brass? 3.25 years

Have you played with other bands and ensembles? I briefly played in Hamilton City Brass on cornet before moving to baritone. I've also played in the New Zealand Secondary Schools Band and school bands at Fraser High. I am excited to be in in the National Youth Band for 2021.

What is the best thing about playing in Hamilton Auxiliary Band? I like it when our music comes together and starts to sound really good.

What is your favourite piece/tune to play? All night long has been my favourite piece to play. Generally I like test pieces because I like to be challenged.

What's your greatest memory of playing in a brass band? Going with my mum to watch Te Awamutu Brass Band at the Invercargill contest a few years ago is my favourite banding memory. My greatest playing memory is playing with the national secondary school band.

What is your favourite music genre to listen to and/or play? I like to listen to music that's in the top 50 charts. My favourite genre of music to play is movie music.

Any advice for new players? Here's some legendary advice... PRACTICE!!

Walter has accomplished many things since his interview... In 2024 he became the National Champion of Champions for the Under 19 category at the New Zealand Brass Band National Contest.

Walter is currently the Principal Euphonium of the National Youth Brass Band

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INTRODUCING TE REO GENEFAAS (NEE HUGHES) - MUSICAL DIRECTOR 2018-2019

Each week Te Reo takes 30+ players under her wings, throws new and difficult music in our direction waves her magic wand (aka baton). Seriously, this lady is one of the most educated, passionate humble people I've met. Her drive to succeed from a young age have culminated to a can-do attitude which has pushed her through to great success as a soloist, in a champion quartet, the national youth and secondary schools band and a degree in music... is there anything this lady can't do... She's also a mum and working full time. A true inspiration - and what's more, a great friend, mentor and supporter. Thank you Te Reo for all you do for us, as you've alluded to the behind the scenes 'stuff' is so important, we know you are doing that on our behalf and we sincerely appreciate all you do.

When did you start learning to play music? My dad was a choir master and the first type of music I learned to read was tonic sola doh, re, mi, far, soh etc). I vividly remember teaching myself to play hymns on the piano reading off dad's tonic solfa charts. I was seven years old. I began learning piano at age nine and then tenor horn (my first brass instrument) at ten.

What instruments have you played? Cornet, piano, trumpet and tenor horn

Have you sat any exams? What was the experience like? I sat a few piano exams when I was younger, up to grade 7 practical, though I can't play to that level any more! I've done grade 8 cornet and grade 5 theory as well. I remember sitting at the piano for hours on end with the metronome going constantly practicing scales, trying to get them up to speed with no mistakes. I hated it then but I am so glad that I learned them as they help me so much today, particularly when playing in difficult keys. I always wanted to perform at my best so learned how to be very disciplined at a very young age. The adjudicators were scary but, hey were also very encouraging. In my experience they do their best to make you feel at ease.

How long have you played in brass bands? Since I was nine so perhaps 15 years... jokes!! 26 amazing years!!!

How long have you played in Hamilton City Auxiliary Brass Band? Never had the pleasure! I can't quite recall my first time coming to the organisation. Maybe 18 years ago.

Have you played with other bands and ensembles? A few!! Te Awamutu Brass is where it all began. I've also played for Rotorua Brass, Waitakere City Brass, National Secondary Schools Brass and National Youth Bands and of course the magnificent Hamilton City Brass. I've played in school bands, chamber groups at university and the Spice Girls (if you know, you know) so a fair few. I hope one day to play in the National Band of New Zealand.

What is the best thing about playing in the Hamilton Auxiliary Brass Band? I am fortunate enough to conduct the Hamilton Auxiliary Brass Band and the best thing about it is the people. Everyone genuinely cares about each other and support one another whether it is for band or personal reasons. It's an awesome whānau to be a part of.

What is your favourite piece/tune to play? I love many pieces of music but I think Resurgam by Eric Ball will always be my favourite. It is an incredibly emotional piece of writing that takes you on a journey from start to finish.

What's your greatest memory of playing in a brass band? There are too many! Playing at Westminster Abbey for Anzac Day service in 2003 would be one. This is not so much a memory, but the best moments I've had are when you are performing with the band and you stop focussing or worrying about playing the right notes in the right places, everyone is in total sync and you are just making music.

What is your favourite music genre to listen to and/or play? I don't have a favourite genre as I enjoy listening to and playing most genres: Rap, Hip Hop, Pop, Reggae, Classical, Jazz and music from different cultures. Heavy Metal is probably the only type of music I don't enjoy.

What are the highs and lows of being the band Musical Director? I get a major high seeing and hearing people's individual growth, big or small. I love it when people come up to me and say things like "I never used to be able to play... but now I can." I just think that's so cool. Playing brass is hard but it's a big confidence boost when you can proudly say "I can play that!" Being an MD you have to have so many different hats on. You have to be a musician (of course), a teacher, a role model, a psychologist, a mind reader, a people manager... being all that for 30+ unique individuals with different needs/personalities is a lot! There is a lot of mahi that goes on behind the scenes between times that you stand at the front of the band. There's a lot of research, educating, planning and problem solving involved. But, you know, if you are not passionate about what you are doing and you don't have a vision it's just not worth it. It's a good thing that I am incredibly passionate about music and brass bands ha ha. It is a glorious feeling when the band is playing well and it's all happening at the wave of your baton. Bringing music to life is pretty magical!

Any advice for new players? Hmmm, I have a lot of advice to give but here's a few pieces of wisdom I've picked up in the last couple and a bit decades. Work hard! It WILL pay off and open doors to opportunities you never thought possible. Soak in information and advice from everywhere you can get it. Be kind to yourself, playing brass is hard. Most importantly, have fun!

In 2019 Te Reo took Hamilton Auxiliary Brass to 2nd place in D Grade at the

New Zealand Brass Band National Contest

In 2024 Te Reo took over as Principal Tenor Horn at Hamilton City Brass

She has continued to perform beautiful solos at regional contest and was a member of the champion quartet at New Zealand Brass Band National Contest a few years ago. Te Reo is a phenomenal musician whether she is MD or performer...

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INTRODUCING LYZ REID - BARITONE

Lyz is an experienced musician whose love for brass banding started in her college years. She has been in and out of bands over a long period of time proving you can take the player out of the band but you can't take the band out of the player! It just takes time and the right instrument and we've often heard Lyz say she loves her baritone but she doesn't need to tell us, we can see her smiling from ear to ear at each band practice.

When did you start learning to play music? What instruments have you played? Mum (Sue Reid - also in Hamilton Auxiliary Brass) insisted I play an instrument since I can remember. I have tried piano, recorder, guitar, cornet, clarinet, tenor horn and taiko drums. My second go at brass at age 15 was prompted by there being 8+ clarinets in the Te Awamutu College band and only two brass players. I had a crush on the trombone player. My crush didn't last, but the love of banding did.

How long have you played in brass bands? 16 years over a 34 year period. I've had spells of six months, nine years, two years and four years. Banding is for life folks, even if you dip in and out over different life stages. 

What bands have you played in? I played in Hamilton Auxiliary for two years with Blair Stanbridge as MD, a break and then 18 months with Jordan Bennett and now two and a half years under Te Reo's Baton. I have also played with Te Awamutu Brass and Waikato Secondary Schools.

Have you sat any exams? What was the experience like? There was this one time... in band camp? Seriously, I sat a theory test, passed and never got written confirmation/certificate... meh! The actual learning was interesting.

What is the best thing about playing for Hamilton Auxiliary Brass Band? Respect for one another, non-clique-ish camaraderie. Great choices of music to play, often pushing at our level of competence, but enough 'just for fun' tunes as well.

What is your greatest memory of playing in a Brass Band? Tour of Moree Shire and Australian Bicentennial Contest 1988. Although I picked up a wicked stomach flu (not a "stomach flue" - I've never been a heavy drinker!) It was a massive experience. I played for Moree Junior Band which won their grade and Te Awamutu won the Australian C Grade. Podium finish for the NZ Contest that year as well. I would have loved to have participate in the indoor march last year, but as a spectator it was certainly fun and memorable! The whole 2019 contest was great. I'm now looking forward to Christchurch 2021.

What is your favourite piece/tune to play? Of our current set I love 1953. I'd love to have another go at The Golden Hind - a C Grade test piece we played in Te Awamutu Brass in the late 1980s.

What is your favourite music genre to listen to and/or play? I'm a huge fan of 1970s funk and disco. My favourite rock band is Queen. I also have a sizeable NZ pop/rock collection. I like to play complex and/or upbeat hymns (though dreary and dragging hymns make me itch with impatience!). I really enjoy taiko drumming, but I am too uncoordinated. I'm pretty decent at marching, which is a puzzle considering my general level of physical skills.

Any advice for new players? If you're not 'feeling it' music-wise get creative! Find short studies to practice and learn your music by listening to recordings while reading your part. Get help/advice - and be persistent. If you're still in a rut/not enjoying your music have a trial instrument switch, or general switch, switch seats with your buddy or apply for a course or representative band. Tackling a problem sideways can often get you further than trudging down the same-old same-old.

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INTRODUCING BLAKE FINNIGAN - PRINCIPAL CORNET 2021-2022

Blake has played with Hamilton Auxiliary Brass for 10 years after returning to music after a long hiatus. He decided to face his fear of exams and totally conquered the Mount Everest of music by passing his Grade 8 examination in 2018. There is a lot to learn about Blake who quietly works away as one of the front row cornets and is our band manager (this is a role does exceptionally well).  

When did you start to play music? In 1980, at secondary school. I was traumatised by the experience of Grade 3 at the end of the year and then left the trumpet for 30 years until 2010 when I decided to get on top of the exam demon!

What instruments do you/have you played? Trumpet/Cornet

Have you sat any exams - What was the experience like?  As mentioned above my initial exam was traumatic. I returned to sit grade 4 in 2011, and was delighted to be awarded Distinction and became Colin Smiths first pupil to get perfect marks in two pieces. Grade 5 followed (again with Distinction); leading up to Grade 8 in 2018. My nerves settled to the point I was quite relaxed in the last exam.

How long have you played in Brass Bands and have you played in other bands or ensembles?  These last 10 years I've played in Hamilton Auxiliary Brass Band and prior to this I was in the school orchestra (1980-1984) but fairly casually.

What is the best thing about playing in Hamilton Auxiliary Brass? Learning, growing, new friends, family, great tuition from Te Reo and other conductors, and free advice from others at competitions. 

What is your favourite piece/tune to play? Whatever I'm working on at the time, currently The Beautiful American. 

What's your greatest memory of playing in a brass band? Winning regionals at Hamilton.

What is your favourite music genre to listen to and/or play? Test Pieces

Any advice for new players? Breathe, breathe, breathe. If you don't have a teacher, get one. (Blake acknowledges Colin Smith for the help he has been to his music career and suggests Colin  has been the most tolerant encourager on the planet).

Blake left Hamilton Auxiliary Brass to join New Plymouth Brass when he shifted away with his family.

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INTRODUCING ELLA HAWE - PRINCIPAL CORNET 2020

Ella's story is about having courage to get involved and give things a go... you just never know how far you will go in a band... we are certainly proud of you Ella and thank you for sharing your musical journey.

When did you first become interested in music? I’ve had an interest in playing music for as long as I can remember. We’ve always had a piano in our home, so I’ve had the opportunity to play my entire life. I started getting piano lessons at primary school so that’s where I learnt to read music. I was terrible at practising though so my piano skills are pretty rough these days. I actually always wanted to play the drums. My Mum and I went along to a music night at Matamata Intermediate when I was 11 and the line for students wanting to play drums was really long so my Mum asked me if I wanted to choose something else. I saw the trumpet only had three buttons and I thought, “how hard can that be?”

What instruments do you play? I've only ever played piano & cornet

Did you do any exams? I don’t think I’ve sat any exams?

When did you start playing in brass bands? 

• I began playing in Matamata Brass during my second year at intermediate (when I was 12 years old) I played in Matamata Brass for about 7-8 years. I didn’t enjoy playing for a long time & was really timid in band, so after a couple of years my Dad joined to encourage my playing. He started on cornet but soon moved to Baritone and has been in the band ever since! 
• I had a break for a couple of years from brass banding when I was about 20. 
• Then one day I was sitting in the crowd at the Matamata Festival of Music and as I saw Matamata Brass proudly walking up the aisle to play I became really jealous that I was only sitting in the crowd. From what I remember, I messaged Mem and then Te Reo got in contact with me not long after that  
• I think this is my third year playing in Hamilton Auxiliary.
• I’ve played in one secondary schools band, in 2013 on second cornet

What is the best thing about playing in Hamilton Auxiliary Band? The best thing about Hamilton Aux is the beautiful music we get the opportunity to play and how supportive everyone is of one another.

What is your favourite piece to play? I’m loving Laudate Dominum which we’re currently playing 

What is your greatest memory playing in brass bands? My greatest memory of brass banding is nationals!!! Road trips with brass band mates to compete and get the opportunity to watch more experienced players. We always came back feeling encouraged and loved reconnecting with brass band mates from around NZ

Any words of advice for would be or up and coming players? My advice would be that you only have one life, so just go for it! If you’re scared to start playing, think of yourself 20, 30, 50 years down the track and how you’d feel if you didn’t at least try! Follow your dream and start now

- Ella left band to have a breather but she is never far away from a band. Her father, Keith, plays for Matmata Brass. Ella is always cheerful and supportive of Hamilton Auxiliary Brass.

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If you're in Hamilton City Auxiliary Brass Band these are the questions to answer for the getting to know you page :) Contact Sandra Ginever with your answers - Facebook Messenger works well.

Questions:

1. When did you start learning to play music? 
2. What instruments do you/have you played? 
3. Have you sat any exams? What was this experience like?
4. How long have you played in brass bands?
5. How long have you played in Hamilton City Auxiliary Brass Band?
6. Have you played with other bands or ensembles?
7. What is the best thing about playing in Hamilton Auxiliary Brass Band?
8. What is your favourite piece/tune to play?
9. What's your greatest memory of playing in a Brass Band?
10. What is your favourite music genre to listen to and/or to play?
11. Any advice for new players?