The Riverina Conservatorium of Music is excited to invite you to our fourth annual Festival of Concert Bands! Over three days, enjoy a variety of musical activities designed for all skill levels—from beginners to seasoned professionals. The festival features three band streams, ensuring every participant has an engaging and rewarding experience.
This year, we are thrilled to welcome Australian Army Band senior officers Lieutenant Colonel Rachel Beeton and Major Nicolas Buff of the Australian Army Band Kapooka. With their expertise and leadership, participants will have opportunities to perform live, refine their ensemble skills, and learn from both RCM educators and professional musicians from the Australian Army Band Kapooka.
Festival Program
Friday 27 March
9:30am – Primary School Band Day
Open to all primary school students with at least one year of experience. Led by RCM educators, this day allows young musicians to explore new repertoire, develop skills, and make new friends. Students will perform at the Festival Finale Concert on Sunday 29 March at Victory Memorial Gardens, 11am.
Cost: $10 per student
5:30pm – Festival Carpark Party
Join us for a FREE Carpark Party to launch the festival weekend. Enjoy live music performances by RCM ensembles, tasty street food from a local vendor, and a relaxed, fun atmosphere perfect for music lovers.
Saturday 28 March
9:30am – Concert Band Workshops
Join RCM staff and guest musicians from the Australian Army Band Kapooka for a day of ensemble development, led by Lieutenant Colonel Rachel Beeton and Major Nicolas Buff.
Choose your band stream:
Stream 1 – The Wollundry Ensemble
Led by Lieutenant Colonel Rachel Beeton, performing Concert Band Grade 2 repertoire. Ideal for less experienced players or anyone wanting to develop ensemble skills in a supportive environment.
Stream 2 – The Murrumbidgee Band
Conducted by Major Nicolas Buff, tackling Grade 4 repertoire. Perfect for musicians seeking a more challenging experience.
We are offering the service of having lunch delivered to the RCM for Festival attendees on Saturday only. Lunch is $15 per person and will consist of shared assorted sandwich platters, including:
Egg and lettuce
Salad
Ham, cheese and tomato
Silverside, mustard, pickles and cheese
Chicken, mayo, cucumber and carrot
Please note: We are unable to accommodate dietary requests. If you would like to purchase lunch, please select the lunch option when purchasing your ticket.
Sunday 29 March
9:00am – Massed Band Rehearsal & 11:00am – Festival Finale Concert
All players combine for a Massed Band rehearsal before the Festival Finale Concert at Victory Memorial Gardens. Celebrate the weekend with a FREE concert featuring a massed ensemble performance of music created throughout the festival.
Cost: $65 per person | Primary School Band Day $10 per student
Booking is essential: CLICK HERE for booking & payment.
