ellesmere big band
The Ellesmere Big Band is one of the oldest bands in the South Island, originating as the Ellesmere Brass Band in 1902. After the addition of saxes and rhythm in 2004, the band has developed into the swinging Big Band you see today!
With members from all walks of life and many of who travel from Christchurch to rehearse, the Ellesmere Big Band is a proud part of the Ellesmere community. As well as local members there are a number of highly respected Christchurch musicians led by our band Director Matt Davis.
The Ellesmere Big Band performs at many public events including Oamaru Harbour St Jazz and Blues Festival, Ellesmere A & P Show and Lincoln Christmas Parade as well as private engagements such as dances, weddings and corporate functions.
ABOUT US
MEET THE BAND
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Musical Director: Vincent Leahy
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Alto Saxes: Vincent Leahy, Alex Hayward
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Tenor Saxes: Quillan Dextar, Graeme Bellamy
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Baritone Sax: Nicholas van Irsel
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Trumpets: Greg Knowles, Daniel Harris,
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Trumpets: Barbara Nutsford, Tim Dixon,
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Trombones: Roger Grenfell, Alison Donley
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Trombones: Janet Carter, Alistair Frizzell
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Lead Guitar: Charles Breurkes
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Bass Guitar: Rob Le Suer
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Keyboard: Kate Chamberlain
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Drums: Lucas O'Halloran
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Vocals: Nicole Garner, Greg Knowles, Christine Wood
UPCOMING GIGS
Fantasizers Festival
- 3rd February
- Riccarton Racecourse
- 11am - 1:15pm
UPCOMING GIGS
Lions Garden Party
- 10th March
- Private Event
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Times and Locations TBA
UPCOMING GIGS
Harbour Street Jazz and Blues Festival
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22nd - 24th March
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Oamaru
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Times and Locations TBA
HISTORY OF THE ELLESMERE BAND
The Ellesmere Big Band developed from what was originally the Ellesmere Brass Band, founded in 1902, and rehearses from the historic band hall in Leeston, Selwyn
The Ellesmere Brass Band was well known and won many awards at Brass Band Competitions. Bavarian band nights were popular in the 1970s. A history of the band was written during centennial celebrations in 2002, a copy of which is in Leeston Library.
In 2004, with the addition of saxophones and a rhythm section, it became known as the Ellesmere Concert Band. In 2014, the band moved to its current Big Band style.
In recent years it has benefited from the excellent leadership of Dave Neil, Ian Stringfellow and Riwai Hina, all Army Band alumnae, and recently well-renowned saxophonist, Matt Davis.
Feel free to get in contact if you have any photos or memories from the band's 120-year history
GALLERY
CONTACT US
