The Geraldine Silver Band

What decade was this photo No. 2? Can anyone date the drum?
Printed on the drum is _istrict. Probably meaning the ?Geraldine District Band

'Geraldine ..the first 150 years' says that "The Temuka Leader reported on 3 June 1909 that a brass band had been formed and application was made to the Geraldine Borough Council for use of the instruments abandoned by the old band."

1926 was the year of the Dunedin Exhibition with all the very latest advancements in technology, art and entertainment. This exhibition had an unusual connection with Geraldine. The Geraldine Silver Band had been managing with rough old instruments for years, and the English instrument makers ‘Boosey and Hawkes’ had a full set of their very latest instruments at the exhibition. These instruments were purchased by the Geraldine Silver Band.

1.                    2.                   3.

Photographs courtesy of Brian Ashby, Geraldine, N.Z.
1. Probably the First Silver Band in Geraldine. The drum was black with steel rods holding it together.
2. World War One era. Later bands had a drum with white ropes and white leather tuning clamps. Clarrie Ashby was conductor of the Geraldine Silver Band from somewhere in the 1930s to the late 1960s. These photos above are from Brian Ashby's collection.
3. Geraldine Silver Band in the 1930s. Players named:
Bill Gaby, Johnny Davies, Andy Taylor, Manny Brown, Fred Benbow.
Len Bright, Bill Kerr, Dan Brett, Ron Sadler, Ray Dickens, Joe Kerr, Les Brown, Jim Lorimar.
Jimmy Johnston, Bob Brown, Athol Wills, Clary Ashby, W.A. Sherratt, Charlie Bennington, Jim Pugh, Doug Smith.
Jack Brown, Bernie Cotterel.

Usually Anzac Day we had good frosts--I can remember playing in the Silver Band and having all the breath condense in the instruments causing a bubbly sort of sound, but that didn't happen this year. Firstly, the band doesn't exist any more, and secondly there wasn't a frost. GT, May. 2006

How did the band raise money for their uniforms and instruments?

Geraldine had a band on and off for a very long time. The Queen Carnival was a fund raiser for organisations in Geraldine, the Geraldine Silver Band was one of these organisations, and over the years there were many such fund raising events. The other form of income was the annual Christmas Carol trips around the district. In the 1950s -1960s the band members and supporters would all climb on the back of a truck and sit on forms that had been tied on. They would do one district a night, caroling at each farm house in turn. Woodbury / Fourpeaks, then next night Tripp Settlement to Orari. Another night would be Winchester and so on until the whole district was caroled and canvassed. We collected large amounts of money as well as over indulged in copious quantities of Christmas Cheer. They were good times, but it was very hard work not to mention the discomfort of having to have the splinters from the old forms pulled out from our backsides after the truck had made an emergency stop to dodge a stray lamb, or cow, or whatever could be on a country road in those days.
Info courtesy of G. Toomey, Geraldine. Posted Sept. 11 2008

I do remember even up to 1990 that a band either a silver band or a brass band as they were sometimes called, each Christmas would set themselves up on the back of a truck and go around the streets of Geraldine playing Christmas carols. Jenny B. Sept. 2008.

This event took place in 1926.

In 1926 at the Geraldine Town Hall at the last night of a Queen Carnival, when the queen of the carnival would be crowned, three organisations represented with their Queens, one was the sports club, second one may have been the cycling club, and the third was the Geraldine Silver Band. This photo, a picture taken from the stage looking back at the crowd in the Town Hall, can be dated, as it can be seen that there are indeed electric lights, and the projection box has more than one set of ports. This was done after the first projector was installed at the wrong floor level. Power didn't come to Geraldine until 1925 and the projectors for the theatre didn't come to Geraldine until about February 1926, after the November 25 Dunedin Exhibition. The Town Hall was built in 1924 and originally only had one projector.

Style of dress in 1926. The hall was crowded with approximately 350 citizens seated and another fifty gentleman standing along the back walls, the men wearing white shirts and ties with their hats in their laps. It must have been a cool night with no heating in the hall as as many men and women are wearing overcoats and fur coats and a couple of woman with hats have a woollen tartan blanket over their legs. A few of the men are wearing bow ties, vests and scarves. There were very few elderly folks or children present.

Geraldine Volunteer Brass Band

SHERRATT, THOMAS, General Storekeeper, Talbot Street, Geraldine. Mr. Sherratt, is the eldest son of the late Mr. Amos Sherratt. He was born at Coventry, England, in 1852, and came with his parents to New Zealand in 1863 by the vessel Captain Cook to Lyttelton. Mr. Sherratt has for a number of years taken great interest in musical matters, and when the Geraldine Choral Society was in existence he was its conductor, and still taken conductorship at musical performances in the town. He is organist of the Presbyterian Church, and was bandmaster of the Geraldine Volunteer Band for seven years.  Reference: Cyclopedia of New Zealand, Canterbury edition. Vol. 3 pages 872-879 Published 1903

Grey River Argus, 3 October 1914, Page 6
The following is the completed personnel of the Canterbury Expeditionary Force Band, which is under the control of Sergeant W. H. Osborne, late solo cornetist of the 2nd Regiment Band, Timaru: — Sergeant .W. T. Osborne (band sergeant); Sergeant A. J. Bennington, Corporal J. 0. Sullivan. The bandmaster (Sergeant Osborne) is a champion corntist of the Dominion; Williams is one of Woolston's capable trombone trio; Bennington is from Geraldine, where he had been a leading spirit in band matters of that town; Sullivan hails from Waimate; Harlowe came from Oamaru; Kelly is from the West Coast and was formerly a member of the Kaikoura Band; Keay left the ranks of the Salvation Army Band at Timaru to join the contingent band.

BENNINGTON, Sergeant Alexander, CIB, who died of wounds on June 2, was a son of Mr Bennington of Geraldine. He was a sergeant in the territorials and was also a member of the Geraldine Brass Band. He was 24 yrs of age. [AWN 01.07.1915] Buried at Beach Cemetery at Anzac Cove.

- Early brass bands in South Canterbury

Timaru Herald, 24 March 1879, Page 2
The Geraldine people are decidedly musical. Anyone requiring proof of this should hare been present a few evenings ago, when a full parade of the Geraldine Minstrels took place. These "minstrels" can scarcely be designated a "brass band," since their instruments are for the most part composed of tin, and are as inexpensive as they are varied in size, shape, and tone. Most of the said instruments are second-hand, too, having previously served as receptacles for kerosene. This, however, does not destroy their utility, or impair their tone, as anyone who heard them the other evening could testify. About twelve o'clock on the evening referred to we were roused from our slumbers by a burst of "instruments." I imagined the Kellys were coming down, or the school children were attempting to sing the New Zealand Anthem, or something equally terrible was about to happen. My fears were groundless, however, as I afterwards found it was only the "minstrels" parading in honor of the return home of a gentleman recently married. I don't know whether the gentleman had the good taste to appreciate the disinterested conduct of our local musicians, but they deserved something.

Timaru Herald, 9 October 1884, Page 7
GERALDINE RACING CLUB'S ANNUAL MEETING.
The Geraldine Brass Band played on the lawn during the day.

Timaru Herald, 23 October 1886, Page 2
On Thursday evening last, the members of the Geraldine Brass Band gave an entertainment in the Oddfellows' Hall in that township in aid of the fund for purchasing new instruments. During the earlier part of the evening the band paraded the town, playing several lively tunes. The Hall was crowded in every part. Lieutenant Ward, the officer commanding the Geraldine Volunteer Rifles, presided, and briefly animadverted to the object for which the entertainment was being given. The proceedings commenced with an overture by the band, followed by several songs ably rendered by Mrs Porteous, the Misses Andrews, Miller, and Beckley, and Messrs Wilkinson, Penney, Logan, and T. Sherratt. After an interval the farce "Phelim O'Toole's Courtship " was placed on the boards. Mr G. Kruse sustained the character of Phelim O'Toole, Mr H. B. Pratt, as Larry, Mr H. Chiverson, as Biddy O'Toole, Mr W. Fleming, as Father O'Hara ; Mr W. Sherratt, as Biddy Doran ; and Mr W. Stonehouse, junr. as Peggy Donovan. Everything passed off without a hitch, and the large and appreciative audience was dismissed iv the utmost good humour. The bandmaster, Mr T. Sherratt, prior to the closing of the entertainment thanked them for their attendance, and also those who had so kindly assisted to render it a success.

Timaru Herald, 28 December 1887, Page 4
At 10 p.m. the Geraldine Brass Band paraded the town performing selections of music, and at midnight they took the place of the time-honoured Christmas waits. The night was beautifully calm and moonlight, the latter somewhat marring the effect of the Chinese lanterns placed outside some of the stores.

Timaru Herald, 3 January 1888, Page 3
Geraldine. The season's festivities were, however, kept up yesterday, it being a close holiday in the township. The members of the Welcome Retreat Lodge, No. 44. I.O.G.T., mustered in full force at the Good Templar Hall at an early hour, and headed by the Geraldine Volunteer Brass Band, were conveyed to Peel Forest, where they held their anniversary picnic in a paddock belonging to Mr G. J. Dennistoun which had been placed at their disposal for the day.

Timaru Herald, 21 January 1889, Page
The annual exhibition m connection with the Geraldine Floral and Horticultural Society was held in the Volunteer Hall, Geraldine, on Thursday last. The Geraldine Volunteer Band were m attendance during the afternoon and evening, and considerably enlivened the proceedings with their music.

Timaru Herald, 19 March 1889, Page 3
GERALDINE ANNUAL PUBLIC SPORTS.
To make things more lively the committee had engaged the services of the Geraldine Brass Band, the strains of which through the day added materially to the success of the meeting.

Timaru Herald, 5 August 1892, Page 3
Geraldine has been to the fore in setting an example to South Canterbury in its response to the request of the Government to set apart the 4th August (Arbor Day) for tree planting. At 10 a.m. the children, some 400, assembled at the junction of the main road with the Pleasant Valley road ; a procession was formed, headed by the Geraldine brass band, followed by the school children, 3 carts containing trees to be planted, the teachers and committee. The whole wended its way along the main road, turning off into Wilson street, and thence to the school ground. Prior to the proceedings commencing, the children, under the leadership of Mr J. Colbert, second master, sang "God defend New Zealand." On arrival each child was placed opposite a hole— dug previously under the supervision of the teachers, members of the planting committee, and the gardeners residing in Geraldine— and planted a tree (there must have been 500 of the latter). At the conclusion of the work, the youngsters were drawn up in line at the side of the school and regaled with buns and tea grace being first said by the Rev. W. Woollass. The children were assembled in the long room, and addressed by the Rev. W. Woollass (Primitive Methodist minister at present stationed in Geraldine), Messrs T. C. Farnie (head master of the school), R.Y. Fergusson, and C. E. Sherratt (members of the planting committee). The band gave their services gratuitously, and played several selections of music during the day. The thanks of the school committee are given to one and all concerned in tendering the proceedings such a pronounced success, especially to the three gentlemen (Messrs J. Pye, S. Chapman, and M. Coombs) who generously gave 100 trees each, and assisted the children in planting them.

Timaru Herald, 27 December 1893, Page 3
During the night the members of the Geraldine Brass Band wended their way through the town, making the stillness of the night echo with their sacred strains.

Timaru Herald, 3 January 1894, Page 3
The New Year was ushered in a very quiet manner, the only demonstration being too parading of the streets by the Geraldine band, playing several tunes in a manner highly creditable to themselves and Mr E. Robson, the bandmaster.

Timaru Herald, 9 May 1894, Page 3
For some little while past the Geraldine Rifle Volunteers have had under their consideration the near disbandment of the corps, and the breaking up of the brass band connected with them. On Monday evening last the final scene was enacted, and the disbandment took place in the Volunteer Hall. The corps had been in existence about eight years, and were warmly supported by a large number of young men who joined. Mr W.M. Moore was requested to take command as captain, and did so, George Ward and K. Mackenzie being elected first and second lieutenants respectively. On Lieutenant Ward retiring from the Volunteers, Mr B. R. Macdonald became second lieutenant, Captain Moore being promoted to the rank of Major. Mr B. H. Pearpoint was chosen Captain.

Timaru Herald, 24 November 1900, Page 3
The Geraldine Fire Brigade held their annual competition for prizes given by citizens on Thursday afternoon in the domain. The Geraldine men were also working with old out-of-date plant. The bandsmen's race was won by Drummer W. Sherratt, with Bandsman Wallach second; and the officials race by Mr E. Tasker, with Mr J. W. Pye second. The Geraldine Brass Band enlivened the proceedings with some good airs during the afternoon.

North Otago Times, 20 March 1877, Page 2 Opening of the Waimate Railway.
Yesterday was a day long to be remembered by our neighbors of the thriving and pretty town of Waimate, as being that of the occurrence of an event, the most important which has yet marked its career — the opening of the branch railway which connects its with the main trunk line and then followed a long list of toasts and speeches, which occupied some three hours in all. On the platform was the popular chairman of the Waimate County Council Mr J. Bruce and the Mayor of Timaru, Mr G. Cliff. ...In the foreground was the Waimate Brass Band, under the leadership of the Mr Graham, late bandmaster of Oamaru.

North Otago Times, 24 September 1877, Page 2
The Hall was then cleared, and a procession, headed by an effigy and the Waimate Brass Band, marched up High street to the corner of Queen street, the front of Mrs Potter's Hotel, thence back to High street, proceeding along until Sherman street was arrived at, thence up Sherman street to the Bush Road, thence on to the reserve in front of the railway station.

Otago Witness, 27 January 1888, Page 17
Geraldine. January 19.— We have had our Christmas beef and plum pudding, our waits played by our volunteer brass band, have wished the "compliments of the season " almost to friends and foes alike, have seen the old year out and the new year in, have formed our annual batch of good resolutions, some of which, judging by the conduct of well-known topers, are broken already, and again we have settled down into the exceedingly even tenor of our ways at the beautiful little township. Geraldine known, far and near, as being one of the prettiest little country townships in the whole of Canterbury. Geraldine is situated about 24 miles to the north-east of Timaru, and is accessible by an excellent macadamised road which is, with the exception of two or three miles near Timaru, almost on a dead level. It can also be readied by taking the train to Orari, and thence travelling by Messrs J. Mundell and Co.'s coach a distance of five miles.

New Zealand Tablet, 25 March 1898, Page 27
St. Patrick's Day Celebrations, Geraldine.
The Temuka Brass Band, and Pipers McKechnie, Murray, Frost, Davidson and Cooper, discoursed appropriate and enjoyable music during the day.

New Zealand Tablet, 23 March 1899, Page 31
The annual sports gathering under the auspices of the Geraldine St. Patrick's Day Sports Association came off on March 17, when the weather was gloriously fine and the attendance was a most representative one. About eleven o'clock the officials met in front of Loudens Hotel and marched through the town in procession, headed by the pipers and followed by the Temuka Brass Band. At intervals the public were entertained by pleasant strains of music, the Temuka Brass Band having been engaged for the occasion. 

Hawera & Normanby Star, 22 September 1903, Page 2
Timaru, September 21. Charles Bowker, a resident of Timaru for 38 years, made a free gift to the residents of a band rotunda and 12 garden seats to be placed on the Market Reserve, which is near the centre of the Borough. He wishes the, gift to mark his 40 years in the colony.

Grey River Argus, 29 April 1904, Page 3
TIMARU, April, 28. A large gathering this afternoon witnessed the presentation to the town of the band rotunda in Alexandra square, the gift of C. Bowker. The rotunda and Park seats cost about £600. This is the first gift of the kind, and Mayor Cragie in accepting the gift hoped that it would be only the first of the kind. Advantage was taken of the gathering to present medals to the local members of the 8th, 9th, and 10th Contingents.

New Zealand Tablet, 5 May 1904, Page 5
May 3. The new band rotunda on Alexandra Square, which Mr. Bowker has generously presented to the citizens of Timaru, was formally taken over and opened by the Mayor, Mr. Craigie, on Thursday afternoon in the presence of a large gathering. The rotunda is octagonal in form and has a substantial and graceful appearance. The people of Timaru claim that it is the premier rotunda in New Zealand ; be this as it may, it is, without doubt, an acquisition to the town for which the townspeople are duly grateful.

Grey River Argus, 23 December 1904, Page 3
Opening of the Band Rotunda
TIMARU, Dec. 22 The brass bands of Ashburton, Temuka, and Waimate, joined the three bands of Timaru to-day in the ceremony of opening the new band rotunda on Caroline Bay sands, and a good crowd of people were present in spite of a hot norwester blowing. About £2,400 has been spent in improving the Bay by earthwork, planting and building in the last two years.

Taranaki Herald, 15 December 1904, Page 5
The Timaru Garrison Band has appointed  Herr Fritz Paul conductor. There were eleven applications from New Zealand and Australia. Professor Paul is at present conductor of the Braidwood Band in New South Wales.

Otago Witness, 3 July 1907, Page 63
A change of conductors has taken place with the Timaru bands. Mr Claude Davie having resigned from the Timaru Marine, his place is filled by Mr H. Mayo, of the Garrison, Mr H. Necklen (the euphonium player) succeeding Mr Mayo.

Otago Witness 20 May 1908, Page 37
A contest for second-class bands, promoted by the Timaru Marine Band, is to be held in Timaru on Labour Day. Between 35 and 40 business men have guaranteed £347, and of 34 bands invited to compete, eight have already signified their intention of doing so.

Otago Witness 9 September 1908, Page 68
Mr Edwin Hunter has accepted an offer to play soprano cornet for the Timaru Marine Band (conductor, Mr Harry Mayo) at the forthcoming contest at Timaru on Labour Day, October 9. The band has just received a full set of Hawke's sonorous instruments. The soprano is a real beauty. The Timaru Marine Band is playing " Mount Egmont" (Trussell) as its own choice march. It has a most telling soprano part. The test seleotion is "Gems of Haydn" (Rimmer).

Ashburton Guardian, 14 October 1908, Page 3
The contest has attracted people from as far as Christchurch and Dunedin, while Oamaru, Ashburton, Waimate, and intervening districts are strongly represented. It is estimated that fully 3000 people arrived by this morning's trains, and it is expected that 10,000 will be on Caledonian grounds to witness the quickstep competitions this afternoon. In the procession from town shortly after one o'clock there were eight brass and three pipe bands ; in all, about 250 bandsmen. In the quartette competition the Ashburton Temperance Band has been placed second.
Timaru October 13. In the evening the competitions were resumed at the Theatre Royal.
Quartets— Timaru Marine, "Echo in Gebarge
Trombone trios. "The "Lifeboat" Timaru Marine.
The results were:
Drum competition — Cole and Jacobs (Lyttelton Marine) I; Hall and Clarke- (Timaru Marine) 2
Quartets — Timaru Marine (W. Taylor, R. R. Munro, S. Burnip and W. Craig), 81 points,
Trombone trios —Timaru Marine. (A. Pearce, E. Scales and E. Williams), 2 points, 1
Euphoniums —J. Stubberfield (Elite) 84; W. Sullivan (Lyttelton Marine) 81; W. Craig (Timaru Marine) 80.; A.: Hall (Caversham) 77 ; W. Newman (Bluff- Navals) 74 ; A. Beck (Timaru Marine) 74.
Tenor Horns— L. Wendelborn (Lyttelton Marine) 82 ; J. Storrie (Dominion) 80 ; L. Terris (Ashburton Temperance) 79 ; E. Hunter (Timaru Marine) 75 B Flat Trombones—A. Pearce (Timaru Marine) 74 ;
In a competition in four bugle calls, for Defence and School Cadets, there were four contestants. The winner turned up in J. Burns (Timaru Main), who played the calls very cleanly and with good expression where this was called for. He was awarded 53 points out of 60. A. Segar (Timaru Main), 39 points.

Ashburton Guardian, 29 March 1910, Page 4
The Quickstep Competition at Temuka yesterday was won by the Ashburton Temperance Band with 281 points, the Christchurch Elite 279.25 points, and Timaru Marine 278 points. For drill the Ashburton Temperance band secured 1721, music 109 points. Christchurch Elite: Drill 165.5 points, music 114 points. Timaru Marine: Drill 173.5 points, music 105 points. Mr Sidney Wolf was the musical judge, and Lieutenant-Colonel McKenzie and Sergeant-Major Jones the military judges.

Evening Post, 12 February 1914, Page 3
Competitions in Auckland. 11th February. Additional band contest results: — Trombone Trio.— Queen Alexandra's (Wanganui), 90, 1; Kaikoura Brass, 88, 2. Also competed : 2nd South Canterbury 85. Quartet. — Wanganui Garrison, 90, 1 ; 2nd South Canterbury No. 1, 87; South Canterbury, No. 2,

Evening Post, 16 February 1914, Page 4
Auckland,15th February The Exhibition Band Contest was concluded on Saturday. The following are the result's of the Quickstep March competitions : A Grade— Waihi Federal, 268 points, 1; Palmerston North, 262½ points, 2; 3rd Auckland Regimental, 262 points., 3. The other bands were placed in the following order : — Auckland Garrison, 260, Kaikoura, 256 ; Queen Alexandra's Own, 251.5 South Canterbury, 251.
Drums Solo Contest — A. E. Price (16th Waikato Regimental) 86 points (gold medal), 1; J. Blackwood (2nd South Canterbury Regiment), 85 points (silver medal), 2.
The massed bands wound up (the afternoon by playing the " Imperator March" and the National Anthem. The aggregates were thereafter computed with the following results : — Besson Challenge Shield, for the highest aggregate points in selections and for music in the quickstep competition, formerly held by Waihi, was won by the Second South Canterbury Regimental with 313. The Hawkes Challenge Shield for highest aggregate marks, including A grade test selections and quickstep competition, was won by the Auckland Regimental with 555. The next highest were Second South Canterbury, 546.

Evening Post, 18 February 1914, Page 2
Return of the Champions.
Christchurch. 17th Feb. The South Canterbury Regimental Band, from Timaru, which won the Besson Shield and other honours at the Auckland, Exhibition contest, spent a few hours in Christchurch this morning, and gave a short concert in the band rotunda in Victoria-square. The band was welcomed by the Mayor, who said that it was a matter of congratulation that Canterbury should send such an efficient band to the Auckland contest. The province ought to be proud of its young men. The victory was specially meritorious in view of the fact that, in Timaru, bandsmen had fewer facilities than were afforded in larger centres.
    Timaru, 17th February. The victorious, Second Regimental Band was welcomed home from Auckland by a large cheering crowd at the railway station, where the Mayor made a speech of congratulation. [Conductor: A. Schnack]

VE & VJ Day
From the Timaru Herald
"The war in Europe ended on 7 May 1945 when the Germans gave an unconditional surrender. A citizens VE Thanksgiving Service was held at the Sound Shell and this was followed in the evening by a torchlight procession and bonfire on the bay. At the citizens service, the children marched from King Georges building along Church St, into Stafford St, and to the Bay via the viaduct. The Timaru Municipal Band, the Timaru High School Band & Salvation Army Band marched to the strains of "Colonel Bogey". [ so familiar as the theme tune for the British film 'Bridge on the River Kwai'].  The Pipe band led the Boys Brigade, Girls Life Brigade and Girl Guides and they were then followed by the Harmonica Band. Later that day, the torchlight procession moved off from the National Chambers led by the Municipal band, Boys High school band, Salvation Army Band, Highland Pipe Band and the Harmonica Band.

Band rotundas

Hawera & Normanby Star, 22 September 1903, Page 2
Timaru, September 21. Charles Bowker, a resident of Timaru for 38 years, made a free gift to the residents of a band rotunda and 12 garden seats to be placed on the Market Reserve, which is near the centre of the Borough. He wishes the, gift to mark his 40 years in the colony. 

Temuka's volunteer band played as early as  26 December 1866. A concert was held 26 January 1877 by the Timaru Band. A year later the rotunda at Caroline Bay was erected. Band rotundas were also erected in the Timaru Botanical Gardens, Russell Square, Timaru and in Waimate.  

Timaru bands pre 1915 included:

Garrison Band (14 Jan 1909, 22 members marched in the Jubilee Procession, under Drum Major Elgin, playing new instruments)
Timaru Marine Band
Timaru Municipal Brass Band (pre 1882)
South Canterbury Pipe Band
South Canterbury Regimental Band
Timaru Volunteer Artillery Corps Band (T.V.A. Band) (Timaru Artillery Band) (pre1873) Mr Hunter, the bandmaster 
The Temuka Brass Band  (pre 1881)
Hibernian Band (pre 1885)
Timaru Caledonian Band (pre 1879)
Timaru Brass Band (1867)
Timaru Volunteer Rifles formed May 1867 - drum and fife band
Arowhenua Band (played for  the Governor, Sir G. Grey Feb. 1867)
Royal Arowhenua Brass Band (1867)

Timaru Herald, 1 September 1866, Page 2
On Thursday last the laying of the foundation stone for a Freemasons' Hall for the use of the members of the Lodge of St John, Timaru, was performed with full Masonic ceremony ;  A brass band, also made its appearance.

Timaru Herald, 2 February 1867, Page 2
The brass band have nearly got all their instruments, the last batch is expected by to-night's coach. They have not practised much together as yet, but they are not lazy m private practice, and it is somewhat laughable at times to hear the different players m their respective houses (nearly all together),- " Annie Laurie" on one side of the street, being invited to " Take this cup of sparkling wine" with " The whistling thief " on the other, to a solo accompaniment on the big drum of " Yankee Doodle." However, when all the players get together, we shall be able to challenge your Timaru band.

Timaru Herald, 13 February 1867, Page 6
His Excellency expressed himself much pleased with his reception, and proceeded to the platform where the band was playing ; and after examining the instruments, &c, congratulated the players on their efficiency, and after some few remarks, requested that the band might be under his especial patronage, (a high honor, indeed, for this small community). After a stay of about half-an-hour, a procession was formed, headed by the band, Sir George Grey and A. Cox, Esq., next, and marched to the Maori pa, where again his Excellency was greeted with great cheering, both by natives and others. The road was covered with Maori mats up to the church, where a native levee was held ; and Solomon Pohio, the principal chief now here, made a short speech, congratulating the Governor on his visit, and asking him, if possible, to take off the tax on Maori dogs, and complaining about the supposed injustice done them by the main road running through their land. In reply, it was stated that ho (Sir G. Grey) could not interfere with the law, and that if any grievances had to be made, it would be wiser to send them to the Government; but he was very glad to meet such a peaceful lot of natives, and congratulated them on their position in contradistinction to some of the Maoris in the North. After a few more remarks, his Excellency retired to his carriage, and drove off amidst loud cheers, the band playing "God save the Queen." The return trip was earlier than was expected, and although the coach stayed to change horses, Mr Cox and his guest started almost immediately on horseback for Raukapuka, the residence of Mr Cox.

Timaru Herald, 3 July 1867, Page 3
ANOTHER GREAT CONCERT.

"MUSIC HATH CHARMS" (?)
[Our reporter, not being supplied with a ticket of mission, was compelled to get one of the audience to supply a criticism. — Ed.]

Such a treat, we've had a concert, by the great Temuka band ;
Goodness gracious, how splendacious, sure 'twas wonderful, 'twas grand.
Tom the drummer, best of fellows, beat till he was almost white,
While the others — bless their bellows — blew themselves near out of sight.

All the town was bent on singing, 'twas enough to make you roar ;
Each meant going in and winning, though he'd never sung before.
Such a crowd came volunteering, just to show what they could do,
That the stamping and the cheering, might be heard in Oamaru.

First the band struck up, and though they each one played a different air,
'Twas the more, sure, for the money, which was all they wanted there.
But friend Young got so excited, you'd have thought his cheeks would crack —
Got so far before the others, that they had to hold him back.

Up rose K____t and told them all how, "England 'spected every man
Then would do his putty," but he broke down ere he'd well began ;
F____e then killed "Lord Ullin's daughter," like some savage Highland chief,
But the people wouldn't have it, so he quickly came to grief.

Then an auctioneer so pleasant, said he'd show them how to sing,
In a voice that charm'd all present, gave them, " I'm the Gipsy King."
H____n, the learned baker, "Master of the Rolls," 'tis said,
Spouted forth — like yeast a-working, — "Tell me where is fancy bread."

S_____ f and W____n sang together, lines of "Hearts and heads," in praise,
With "Flow on thou shining liver," and "The lights of other days ;"
Others, young and thoughtless butchers, mock'd, and thought to have a spree,
Till the gentle Sergeant Buckley, warbled, " Love, come dwell with me."

Then a young and gallant fellow sang — a regular knowing elf —
"Let me kiss her for her mother, let me kiss her for myself."
G___n "the cabbage green," kept trying, but it proved most awful work,
Young Watch J___bs managed better when he gave "the cask of pork."

Hoo____r said he was no singer — wasn't such a jolly muff —
But he'd dance upon the tight rope, if they'd find one strong enough.
One___a tradesman — then recited lines he'd wrote to Glasgow town,
But they didn't seem to like it, for they rose and hiss'd him down.

Sal____n essayed a hornpipe, but he made a quick retreat,
For the stage would not allow him proper room to more his feet.
Another forward came and sang — but what you could not hear,
For they put him in the cupboard, thinking he'd had too much beer.

Mor___n then gave "The Pilot," S____t "The Friar of orders grey,"
Wea___r gave them "Billy Tailor," Hutton gave the "Poor dog Tray."
"Down among the dead men," T____r tried, but soon away was led,
For his wife came in and took him home, and past him into bed.

An____n, the jolly brewer, started forward out of breath,
First he gave them "Drops of brandy," and then, " Ale, all ale, Macbeth."
R____t R_____d then tried a ditty, praising water from the creek,
But the subject didn't suit him — wanted spirit — 'twas too weak.

Twenty then all rose together, — for the time was flying now,
So each struck up independent, making such a horrid row,
That "The Force," who, in the kitchen, had been feasting on the sly,
Flew to arms and drop'd their mutton, thinking Hau-haus must be nigh.

What they sang or when they finished, few can tell, though lots have tried,
For the band, with wise discretion, went and finished off outside.
If they raise another concert, let them advertise the day,
Giving good and timely notice, that we all may — stay away.

J.T.M

Timaru Herald, 25 May 1867, Page 2 TIMARU RIFLE VOLUNTEERS.
The competitors for the prizes given to be shot for mustered at nine o'clock on the morning of the 24th ult., under the command of Captain Fendal, and marched to the practice ground. Ensign Beswick, as will be seen by the scoring, was the fortunate winner of the cup, having made 40 points, the minimum allowed to claim that prize, and Private Mair the winner of the second prize, a gold breast pin. After the firing was over, the men having been joined by many more of their comrades, were marched through the town, headed by the drum and fife band, which played military airs in a very creditable style. The band has only recently been established, and we have been informed that last Monday was the first day the men ever practised together, and it was wonderful with such short practice, the precision and style they have already attained. With practice, and a few more fifes and a piccolo, the Timaru Rifle Volunteers will soon boast of a band second to none in Canterbury.

Timaru Herald, 3 July 1867, Page 5
An amateur Concert, in aid of the funds of of the Timaru Brass Band, was given in the Royal Assembly Rooms on Monday, 17th ultimo. We believe that there were nearly 300 persons in the room. The weather was favorable, so that there were several persons from the country present. But on Monday night there was a larger proportion of babies than we desire to see at any musical entertainment ; for, however pleasant infant sounds may be to those maternally interested, they are by no means musical to the majority of people. In all public entertainments there should be shown as much order and method as possible, but we regret to say such was not the case on Monday night. The public are fickle, and if kept waiting whilst lost music is found, or until those who have the management can obtain a substitute for some one who has been placed for a song which he was never asked to sing, it is likely that plenty of mischief will be found by a certain individual mentioned by Dr Watts "for idle hands to do." The success of the concert is undoubted, but the common error, and one which we have in other places seen fatal to the efforts of musical societies, was committed. The programms was departed from. This m itself implies bad management. When a programme has once been fixed, all concerned are supposed to practice their parts and songs together as much as possible, or else how can the public hope to hear anything worth paying for? It is by practice alone that a good singer is enabled to sing correctly. It may be said that the programme did not embrace any ambitious flights, and that nothing beyond simple and well-known pieces were introduced, so that another simple piece could be substituted at a moment's notice. But who would wish to hear the old and hackneyed pieces unless they are well given ?
    At about eight o'clock the concert was opened by the band playing the "Old Arm Chair" Of the other instrumental music during the evening we can only say that it was given with much credit to all concerned. The Royal Arowhenua Baud were encored for the manner in which they performed "Home, sweet Home." A selection from " Crown Diamonds," on the piano and violin, by Mrs Cookson and Mr Knight, was better played than we have heard it given at many amateur concerts. ...Our notice of the comic songs by Mr Parsons comes last, but it does not follow that we were least pleased with them. The "Blue tailed Fly," and the "Weeping Willow," have never been equalled in Timaru. Mr Parsons kept the audience in roars of laughter, and contributed in no small degree to the success of the concert.

Timaru Herald, 17 June 1871, Page 2
Allow me to correct an error which occurred in a paragraph in the the issue of your paper, in which it is stated that the Timaru Artillery Corps "decided on accepting the services of the present Timaru Brass Band, and on the enrolment of the bandsmen into the ranks, that the corps would furnish funds for uniforms and music." The facts of the case are as follows :— The members of the band have sold their private interest in the musical instruments in their possession for the sum of £55 to the Timaru Artillery Corps, and the members of the band find their own uniforms, but the corps is to supply music, and any new instruments that may be required to make the band efficient. Yours, &c., A Bandsman. Timaru, June 16th, 1871.

Timaru Herald, 1 July 1879, Page 2
Bbass Band. — At a meeting of persons interested in establishing a brass band in Timaru, held last night in the Queen's Hotel, it was resolved to send at once for instruments. A Committee wns formed to draw up rules, and after some other matters were discussed, the meeting was adjourned until next Monday evening.

Timaru Herald, 9 April 1881, Page 2
Presentation. — A pleasant little ceremony took place last night at the residence of Captain Hamersley. The members of the Timaru Volunteer Artillery Band being anxious to present their leader, Mr Thomas Perry, with a silver-plated cornet as a mark of their appreciation of his earnest endeavors to advance the members, Mrs A. St. George Hamersley was requested and kindly undertook the task. The Band assembled at the drill-shed shortly after 8 o'clock and marched up to Captain Hamersley's residence, and on arrival Micro played some selections on the lawn opposite the house, which were immensely enjoyed by a large number of people who were attracted to the vicinity. Mrs Hamersley, in making the presentation, said she had much pleasure in presenting Mr Perry with the cornet, and congratulated him on the great progress the Band had made under his guidance. They had often had great pleasure in listening to the Band during last summer, and hoped the recipient would long live to use the cornet which she now presented to him. Mr Perry, in returning thanks, expressed his pleasure in accepting such a token of the goodwill of the members of the and his gratification in receiving the present from Mrs Hamersley. The Band then, at the invitation of their Captain, entered the house and partook of refreshments, after which they played a number of selections, and the gathering broke up.

Timaru Herald, 21 January 1885, Page 2
Artillery Band. — The annual general meeting of the Timaru Artillery Band was held at the C Battery's headquarters drill shed, last evening, Bandsman E. Partridge in the chair. There was a large attendance, nearly every member of the Band being present. After the minutes of last annual meeting had been read and confirmed, the Hon. Secretary (Bandsman James Stevenson) read his annual report. This dealt very clearly and exhaustively with the past year's work. A balance-sheet was also submitted which showed that £75 3s had been received during the year, and £56 6s had been expended, a balance to credit being thus left of £18 17s. The meeting considered the report and balance-sheet very satisfactory, and adopted them unanimously. A general Committee for the ensuing six months was then elected as follows : — Bandsmen T. Watts, T. Peters, J. Morris, M. Shepherd, and James Stevenson, the Bandmaster to be a member ex office. Mr T. Perry was unanimously reelected Bandmaster for the year, and Bandsman Jas. Stevenson Hon. Sec., to be assisted by Bandsman M. Shepherd.

Standing: (from left to right) B. Pasco, G. Blackwell, B. Tooth, B. Hoskins, W. Williams, J. Morris, J. Stevenson, H. Dickerson, T. Watts, J. Lawrie.
Sitting:  F. Hatton, H. Burmester, G. Smith, J. Rowles, T. Perry, A. Dickenson, W. Oliver.

Timaru Herald, 4 May 1882, Page 3
The Band contests in connection with the Exhibition at Christchurch were commenced on Tuesday, the Timaru Band taking first honors. The Timaru Band, displayed excellent time and harmony of the instruments, the band being well balanced and the bass instruments especially capitally played. The addition of a side drum would greatly have improved the rendering of the piece chosen. The decision of the judges was announced to be as follows : — Timaru Artillery Band, 1 ; City Guards Band, 2 ; and Christchurch Artillery Band, highly commended. After the judge award had been made known, the winning band played an excellent selection from "Patience" very nicely indeed. The number of persons paying for admission was 5357.

Ashburton Guardian, 13 April 1920, Page 4
The 8th (South Canterbury) Mounted Rifles Band will render its final municipal concert in the rotunda on Wednesday evening, weather permitting. The following programme will be submitted —Grand contest march, "On Tour"; selection, "Zampa"; concert valse, "Thoughts"; grand selection, "Maid of the Mountains"; waltz, "Les Fleurs d'Australie"; march, Newcastle."

Images online

Temuka Brass Band, 1909  
Temuka Pipe Band 2007 - images online - centennial Easter 2011 band rooms Denmark S., Temuka
Timaru Regimental Band, 1920
Timaru Salvation Army Band, 1900
Early Canterbury Bands

2008 South Canterbury Bands
Today bands met and practice in a band halls in Timaru, Temuka and Fairlie.

Timaru Scottish Society Pipe Band (est. 1976)
Alpine Energy Timaru Brass is the name now given to the Timaru Municipal Band. The Brass Band provincials are in March. Alpine Energy Timaru Brass (about 30) are involved on Anzac Day with a street march, the civic service and the Last Post. National contest in July - No qualifying is necessary. Each band is required to play a set test piece, one of their own choice, a hymn test and a street march.
Alpine Energy Junior Brass Band
Temuka Pipe Band
Mackenzie Highland Pipe Band (Fairlie) 1920  2005 New Years Eve
City of Timaru Highland Pipe is now (2009) the South Canterbury Highland Pipe Band - Grade 4. The "South Canterbury" name reflects the band's membership and supporters. 1st place in their grade at the national championships, March 2010 at Masterton. "It's 52 years since South Canterbury actually won the championship." The Pipe Band contest season is from November with the nationals, Royal New Zealand Highland Pipe Band Association National Championship, in March. The NZ Pipe Band Championships will be held in Timaru on the weekend 4-5 March 2011 at Alpine Energy Stadium with a March along the main street, Stafford Street.

The more you play, the less you practise.

On Parade

Easter Monday is Show Day at Fairlie with the The Mackenzie Highland Pipe Band, with its Mackenzie tartan uniform, is usually the official band leading the Grand Parade at 2 p.m. the Showground's in Fairlie and supported by invited bands. You can also see and hear the band marching through the streets of Fairlie and the campground on New Year's Eve and the New Year Day Parade. The band was established on 5th August 1917 with Mr R. Leitch as president and W. McLeod the first Drum-Major and George Cowan as Pipe-Major, a position he held for 33 years. At the 1918 show the Fairlie Highland Band was lead by Drum Major W. Phillips and Pipe Major G. Cowan. In 1929 Balance Slow was Drum Major. Later Charlie Cowan became Pipe Major. In 1948 Lloyd Carlton was elected Drum-Major, a position he years for donkey years. Over the years school children have joined and the band continues to be appreciated by many in the Mackenzie.

Radio NZ Sound Archives 
Mackenzie Highland Pipe Band recorded at Fairlie Show, Easter Monday 1980. Pipe Major John Campbell; Drum Major Bob Dobson; Tune - Leaving Barra

Band Need Complete Uniform. 14 May 2004 Timaru Herald
The Mackenzie Highland Pipe Band is nearing its centenary, but band members are still $15,000 away from a complete uniform. Pipe major John Campbell said although the band had been able to buy some kilts and jackets in the last couple of months, kitting out a pipe band was "hugely expensive" and there were many other uniform components outside of those garments. Feathers, glengarrys (hats) and badges were among numerous items that would enable the band to step out in full dress. Bag covers and pipe cords were also required, but the band was considering making the covers to reduce the $600 per cover cost. Mr Campbell, who recently celebrated 25 years as pipe major and started his band career as a 16-year-old in 1956, said the band had not had a new uniform for 47 years. "My uniform was jolly near indecent. The sporran in the front had almost worn a hole through. We've got to the stage where sometimes we have to put people on the street in civvies." Mr Campbell emphasised the "very generous" support of the Fairlie and wider Mackenzie communities, which had helped make possible the purchase of kilts and jackets. The band played at this year's Mackenzie Highland Show, receiving a one-off $5000 donation from the show's organisers. "It was very generous and helped us buy the uniforms but it was a one-off. By and large we offer our services for nothing." The 92-year-old band now required a major sponsor, Mr Campbell said. Approaches to gaming machine trusts had been unsuccessful and the band's main source of income came from donations and performances over the Christmas period. Band members self-funded transport to weekly practice and performances, Mr Campbell said. "But we enjoy what we're doing. We've got a marvellous group at the moment, the spirit in the band is magnificent." Mr Campbell said he had witnessed many changes in his 48 years with the band.

On Parade - Show Day appearances of invited bands with the Mackenzie Highland Pipe band, the official band.:
1921: The Mackenzie Pipe Band played throughout the day.
1922: Fairlie Brass Band played a programme of music.
1929: The Timaru Pipe Band supplied the music.
1931: Throughout the day the Mackenzie Highland Pipe Band played a number of popular highland airs.
1935: The Mackenzie Highland Pipe Band and officials met the train which was carrying the Timaru Highland Pipe Band.  Drum Major Major B. Slow and the band piped the visitors to the grounds
1936: Timaru Municipal Band, Mackenzie and Waimate Pipe Bands which included a woman piper.
1937. Mackenzie and Timaru Pipe Bands
1938: Timaru Municipal Band, Mackenzie and Waimate Pipe Bands
1939: Timaru Municipal Band, Mackenzie and Waimate Pipe Bands
1940: Five Pipe Bands attended: the City of Christchurch, the Canterbury Caledonian, the Scottish Society of Christchurch, Timaru and Mackenzie Pipe Bands (there had been an Easter display in Timaru)
1946: St Andrew's College Pipe Band
1947: Timaru Boys High School band
1948: Timaru Highland Pipe Band
1951: Timaru and Temuka Highland Pipe Bands
1957: Temuka Highland Pipe Bands
1959: Timaru Highland Pipe Band
1963: Timaru Highland Pipe Bands
1975: Geraldine Highland Pipe Bands and the New Brighton Silver Band
1991: St Andrew's College Pipe Band
1993:  St Andrew's College Pipe Band
1997: Waimate Pipe Band
1998: Invited Highland Pipe Bands - McAlpine from Rangiora, Ashburton, Timaru and Waimate and 62 competitors in the piping competition came together for a mass display.  Reference: Button, John and Leslie, Ray. Easter Monday in the High Lands, A Century of Mackenzie Highland Shows 1899 -1998. ISBN 0-473-005511-2. Published by the Mackenzie A & P Society, Fairlie 1998. 334pp

Books

 Waimate Highland Pipe Band, 1903-2003 by Karen Beker. Paperback. 38 pages. Publisher: Waimate Highland Pipe Band

"Life is only the journey. Don't overlook the scenery while worrying about the destination;
and in the march of life don't forget to listen to the band."

The Geraldine Drum Major Uniform - at the Geraldine Museum

Tartan - Macdonald of the Isle.
The hat is a wool felt Glengarry maybe tilted slightly to the right -a fore and aft cap.
The jacket is a Pipe Band doublet.
Drum Major's have stripes on the sleeves.
A plaid brooch is holding on the woollen pipers plaid made from the same fabric as the kilt and the frayed end of the plaid should be the same height as the top of the spats.
White gloves.
Philabeg - the kilt or pleated skirt worn by Scottish Highlanders. Woollen kilt should hang level all the way round and the centre of the pattern should run down the middle. The pipers wear the same plaid.
In full dress, the red sash is worn over the jacket, over the belt, and under the plaid and cross belt. The Pipe Major and Pipe Sergeant wear the red sash from left shoulder to right hip.
A white Drum Major cross belt.
Chromium badges and buttons.
The horse hair sporran is white chrome with two black tassels and has a pouch for bits and things.
Red garter flashes.
The lower leg and foot covers are white spats.
When on parade the band may be led by a drum major, who directs the band with a flourishing mace.

A TBHS brass band member.

George Taylor left Scotland in 1860 sailing to Victoria, Australia, where he mined for four years before sailing to New Zealand and the gold fields of Central Otago. In 1868 he travelled back home, married and then brought his bride back to Cromwell. Walter Taylor was born on January 1, 1870 in Dunedin. In 1908 he and his family moved to Timaru and within a year he had purchased the woolscouring business of Morgan Evans and Co Ltd at Saltwater Creek. The name was changed to Walter Taylor & Co Ltd with subsequent owners retaining the name. Walter carried on the business of scouring, fellmongery and rabbit skin buying until 1938 when he retired in favour of his son Doug. In the 1920s the foreman, who was brother-in-law Bob Aitken, canvassed the back country on a motor bike for commission scouring. Walter was a keen and accomplished cornetist, playing in the Gore and Invercargill bands before moving to Timaru and joining the Timaru Garrison Band. In 1912 he was the leading cornetist and played in many national contests with distinction. When the band entered the 1920 Australian championships at Ballarat he made the trip with his two sons Doug and Andy. He was made a life-member for his long and faithful service. In 1913 he founded the Timaru Boys High School brass band. Walter and Mary purchased a two-acre property in King Street Timaru in 1908 and it was eventually sold in 1946 after Mary's death. The house is now situated on Taylor Street, so named when the two acres were sub-divided. The house still stands today and is run as a bed and breakfast. In 1951 a memorial window was unveiled at Chalmers Church in memory of Mary. Mary had been an active member of the church and the family had decided to donate the window to the church as a mark of respect. Made in London, the window bears the inscription "Feed My Sheep".
    Doug Taylor entered Timaru Boys High School as a first day pupil in February 1913, when the school opened at its present site on North Street. He was a foundation member of the school band in 1913 and was the band's first solo cornetist and was band master. He was also the foundation member of the Timaru Old Boys Rugby Club but had to retire from the sport after a face injury. After leaving school Doug joined the Timaru Municipal Band and in 1920 won the New Zealand flugel horn championship and ten years later the soprano cornet championship after twice being runner-up. He retained his interest in the band for many years.  See

Evening Post, 8 February 1945, Page 8
MR. M. K. MARA
Westport, This Day. The death has occurred of Mr. Michael Kelly Mara, well known in band circles. For a number of years he conducted the Westport Municipal Band and later the Combined Regimental and Municipal Band of that town, gaining distinction at the Dunedin Exhibition contest. He was also formerly bandmaster of the South Canterbury Regimental Band, Timaru, when the band visited Australia in 1920. He was also well known in football circles in South Canterbury, playing for their representative team that toured the North Island about 45 years ago.

South Canterbury, New ZealandGenWeb Project