Ryde Band is a non-profit, community concert band that plays music in venues around the City of Ryde. Like many older, community bands in Sydney, it started its life as a brass band.
An Inclusive Musical Community
Ryde Band welcomes all individuals who share a passion for band performance. With diverse members spanning various skill levels and ages, the group is open to all instrumentalists who are looking to play in a concert band.
We are continuously evolving our repertoire and fostering growth amongst our members. Ryde Band aims to not only delight audiences with enjoyable music but also support young musicians – many of whom have leveraged their band experience to pursue successful music careers.
The History of Ryde Band
Ryde Band was founded in 1884 and has performed almost continuously since that time. Ryde Council helped establish the band and has provided support for more than 80 years. The Band’s role in the civic and community life of Ryde is and always has been integral to its existence.
Ryde Band History Book
To celebrate the Band’s 140 years we have produced a book about the Band’s history. The book is available for on-line purchase – Click the book photo at left to be taken to the Ryde Band Stack Team App (in a new tab).
We’ve Been Waiting for You – Join Ryde Band Today!
Say goodbye to Tuesday evening boredom and embrace our vibrant community! Becoming a member of Ryde Band is great opportunity to connect with diverse music lovers of all ages. Flute players and percussionists, this one’s for you, but we welcome anyone with a love for music to join us.
No instrument? No problem. The band has a number of instruments available for use by members who do not have their own. Uniforms are also partly supplied by the band.
Ready to make music and unforgettable memories with like-minded individuals? Let the music be your guide – join us now! Your talent deserves the stage!
News
17/9/23 – Ryde Band Festive Season Concert Series announced
We’re excited to announce our upcoming Festive Season Concert Series, proudly supported by The City of Ryde.
First up is the Family, Friends and Community Concert at Ryde East Public School on 12th November which will feature a varied repertoire showcasing a selection of show tunes, some favourite pop classics, a movie theme or two and some traditional folk tunes.
Starting on 5th December at Smalls Road Public School we will be bringing you our Christmas repertoire of well known carols and Christmas songs that everyone can sing along to, something the kids especialy enjoy. Then again on 19th December there’s more festive joy and singalong with our Carols on the Corner twilight concert which coincides with the spectacular Christmas lights put up by the residents of Chauvel and neighbouring streets, not to be missed!
These events may seem a way off yet, but it’s never too early to start planning your summer leisure activities so pencil in these dates now.
27/8/23 – Ryde City Concert Band’s Melodious Performance Raises $1,700 for Legacy Foundation
The melodious sounds of the Ryde Band echoed through Eastwood Plaza today as we staged a benefit concert to support Legacy, a foundation dedicated to aiding the families of war veterans.
The event drew a small yet enthusiastic crowd who gave generously, raising an impressive sum of approximately $1,700. Our thanks must go to the local cub scouts who rallied the listeners and passers by to collect the funds.
Adding an unexpected touch of artistic flair to the event, local artist Sadami Konchi took the opportunity to capture the spirit of the musicians by creating a beautiful sketch of one of the band’s players, Helen on bass clarinet.
The concert, a true testament to community spirit, not only provided a platform for exceptional musical talents but also showcased the power of unity in supporting a noble cause. Our benefit concert stands as an example of how the harmonious collaboration of music, art, and community involvement can make a significant impact on the lives of those who deserve our unwavering support.
9/8/23 – Ryde Band Impresses with Second Eastwood Performance, Welcomes a Renowned Trombone Player and Prepares For Legacy Week Concerts
Ryde Band took central position in Eastwood Plaza for their second performance under their new Musical Director, Philip Arnold, following his debut conducting on June 24th at the mall. The Band’s energy under the guidance of their new musical director was evident from their first note.
The mall’s casual atmosphere once again proved to be the perfect backdrop for the band’s performance. Passersby were drawn in by the popular melodies, unexpectedly turning the busy mall into an impromptu concert venue. The band’s delightful performance left a trail of smiles and foot-tapping.
Thomas Burge, a former band member and an acclaimed trombone player, made a special visit to listen and enjoy the music of his former band. Thomas, who had left the band many years ago to pursue a remarkable career in the United States, has been a part of some of the most prestigious orchestras in the world. Having performed with the likes of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, New York Philharmonic, Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Charleston Symphony Orchestra, Augusta Symphony Orchestra, Winston Salem Symphony Orchestra, and Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, his accomplishments are nothing short of inspiring.
The band is now eagerly preparing for more memorable performances in the coming days, with a renewed sense of purpose and determination. On Sunday August 27th at Eastwood Plaza, Ryde Band performances will help support The City of Ryde start of Legacy Week activities which recognises the significant contribution that Legacy Australia has made to the Ryde community since its inception in 1923. Legacy Week, which will be held from 27th August – 2nd September 2023, is known for its Badge Day and the iconic badges are offered as a token of appreciation for the donation made by the public. Legacy is a charity providing services to Australian families suffering after the injury or death of a spouse or parent, during or after their defence force service.
Join us on Sunday, August 27th, at Eastwood Plaza for an extended program featuring popular tunes, show tunes, movie themes, swing, and much more. Ryde scouts will be present, collecting donations for Legacy. We encourage you to show your appreciation by generously contributing to this worthy cause.
