An afternoon of thrilling music unfurling from instruments played by award-winning local musicians is on this Saturday, November 12, with the return of Tauranga City Brass Band's ‘Last night of the Proms' concert.
Tauranga City Brass Band's Annabelle Stewart, who plays the flugelhorn, is encouraging those interested in attending to book tickets now to avoid disappointment.
'It will be a big concert with Tauranga Civic Choir joining us for a few numbers, playing the best BBC Prom music that will keep all the audience hooked till the end!
'Last time it was a sell-out! With pre-sales already doing well this year, it looks on track to be another sell-out,” says Annabelle, who with 25 fellow brass band members, is ending 2022 on a high.
On a high note
The band hosted the Waikato/Bay of Plenty Regional Brass Band Contest last month – after two years of Covid-related cancellations – with Tauranga winning the C Grade and being promoted to the B grade from the New Zealand Brass Band Association, and many of its soloists winning awards.
'As the only brass band in Tauranga, with many playing opportunities throughout the community, our band is a big part of the framework of the musical community here,” says Annabelle.
'This Saturday's concert will be a great show – many people know of the BBC British Proms – it's a wonderful concert with great music – everyone loves and knows the music.
'Part of the reason we put the concert at this time of year is it's a good hit – and it's a great opportunity for us to connect with the Tauranga Civic Choir. They'll have a full choir of 30 singers on-stage with our band.”
Big programme
The full concert has a big programme, with soloist performances, including one on trombone, and a duet with a cornet and a flugelhorn.
The stage is dressed with pomp and ceremony, band members wear full uniform – and the second half offers a more festive, lively approach, with a surprise during the last piece of music.
Annabelle says young and old – from retirement villages to school-aged children – will enjoy the concert. 'The concert is a great way for people to see the band and/or decide on a learning an instrument. Beginners are always welcome – contact the band through our Facebook page or email.
‘Last night of the Proms' concert is at Graham Young Youth Theatre, Tauranga Boys' College, starting 4pm Saturday, November 12.
Tickets are adults $25, seniors $20 and students $15 at: https://events.humanitix.com/last-night-of-the-proms