Cairns Brass Youth Band smashes competition at state level

A Far North music ensemble of youth has scored a mighty win at state level championships. Find out more.

The Cairns Brass Youth Band have done the region proud smashing a spectacular win at the state level championships in Brisbane, competing against adult bands and emerging overall champions.

Conductor Jon Christo said he was proud of the hard work and commitment shown by the 30 member student band, aged between nine and 18.

“Our Youth Band competed in open D Grade against adult bands and came away overall champions, with a clean sweep of all sections,” Mr Christo said.

“Not only did the band win all stage items, but they also competed in a street march, which they also won.

“Led by Riley Siggs as drum major, the band placed first in the drill, inspection and music categories of the street march, and won overall.”

The percussionists were awarded overall Best Percussion Section on the street march, out of the A, B, C & D grade bands, beating some of Brisbane’s most prestigious A grade bands.

Mr Christo said for many children it was their first contest.

Cairns Brass Youth Band members Tai Carrette, 13, on euphonium, Raphael Cole, 13, on cymbals, Emma Adams, 12, on cornet, Tommy Deldot, 10, on cornet, Ben Rumble, 13, on snare drum, Kaon Morgan, 12, on tenor horn, and Jimmy Deldot, 11, on trombone, excelled in their different musical categories, outscoring bands that are older and with more experience then them. Picture: Brendan Radke

“Thirty kids all coming to rehearsal on time and not forgetting their music - it was impressive,” he said.

“They improved so much, it was a steep learning curve and they all tried really hard, concentrating and listening to the advice.”

The opportunity to perform in Brisbane was a “surreal” experience for 12-year-old Kaon Morgan.

“It was really fun and it was a great time listening and playing and making friends,” he said.

“Playing in a brass band is really fun, as everyone is energetic and everyone’s nice. It has really improved my musical ability.”

According to 12-year-old Emma Adams, being part of the Cairns Brass Youth Band gave her skills for musical development.

“The whole experience of going down to Brisbane was absolutely phenomenal,” she said.

“Listening to all of the different bands play was extraordinary.”

Cairns Brass Youth Band is one of three entities under Cairns Brass, which is nearing its 100th anniversary.

Originally published as Cairns Brass Youth Band smashes competition at state level