7 May, 2007
32 members of the Navy Band from the Devonport Naval Base, will perform public concerts and school performances at venues in Matamata, Tauranga, Whakatane, Opotiki and Gisborne as part of a Bay of Plenty and East Coast Tour over the period 7 – 12 May 2007 as follows.
Matamata
Monday 7 May – Matamata College - 2:00pm
Tauranga
Tuesday 8 May at Otumoetai College, Tauranga - 7:30pm – combined concert with College Band and the Navy Band – cover charge applies as a school fund raiser – can be purchased on the night or from Bay of Plenty Times Office and School Office.
Whakatane
Wednesday 9 May at Trident High School, Whakatane - 11:00 am
Wednesday 9 May at Whakatane High School 2:00 pm
Opotiki
Thursday 10 May at Opotiki College – 11:20 am
Gisborne
Friday 11 May at Gisborne Girls High School – 11:45am
Friday 11 May at Gisborne RSA – 7:00 pm
Saturday 12 May at War Memorial Theatre, Gisborne – 7:00 pm – combined concert featuring the Gisborne Youth Concert Band with the Navy Band – cover charge applies – can be purchased from Stephens Photo Plus or on the night.
Background
The Navy Band was formed in the early 1960’s from a nucleus of formal Royal Marines musicians who remained in New Zealand after the Royal Marines Band was recalled to the United Kingdom. Today, the Navy Band's primary role is to satisfy the ceremonial requirements of the Navy, which includes support at Royal, Vice Regal and State occasions. When not on the parade ground or supporting official ceremonies, the Band supports local charities and community based organisations with concerts and other high profile performances. Over time the Band has diversified to meet the changing needs of the public and a number of new groups have formed within the band including a Big Band, Rock Band, Jazz Combo, and Brass Group. In 2003, Taupo formally adopted the Navy Band.
Ends
For further information please contact Lieutenant Commander Barbara Cassin, Navy Public Relations Officer, Ph: (09) 4455002 or Mob: 021-2440638. Media are invited to attend the Navy Band performances and interviews will be arranged as requested.