Est. 1861
Our Story
Over 160 years of brass music in the heart of Geelong.
A Living Tradition
Since 1861
Geelong Brass was founded in 1861 as the Volunteer Rifle Band made up of part-time soldiers who once provided the soundtrack to Geelong’s summer Sundays. From 1861 until the late 1920s, the band would march from their Myers Street drill hall to entertain picnickers gathered on the lawns of the Geelong Botanic Gardens. From its earliest days, the band has been woven into the fabric of Geelong's civic and cultural life — performing at celebrations, commemorations, and community gatherings across the region.
Through the decades the band changed its name a number of times variously known as the Geelong Artillery Band, Geelong City Band and Geelong Municipal Band all the while upholding the proud traditions of the brass band movement while embracing the evolving musical landscape of Australia. Musical directors have included Percy Jones, Harry Shugg, John Wood and Wayne Bowden. Our current Musical Director is John Collinson - solo cornet with Australia Brass, principal trumpet with the Geelong Symphony Orchestra and Director of Music at Grovedale College. Geelong Brass offers the flexibility to tailor our performances to suit your event, venue and style. From the full impact of a traditional brass band to the elegance of a brass quintet, we can provide a brass ensemble, trombone quartet, solo bugler and more.
Today, Geelong Brass stands as a vibrant, active ensemble — a living link between the city's rich past and its thriving present. We are proud to carry the flame of this great tradition into the future.
Historical Archive
Moments in Time
A glimpse into the band's remarkable history — from its origins as the Volunteer Rifle Band in 1861 to the civic institution it became across the generations.
Geelong Band — vintage commemorative badge
Honour Roll — Geelong City Band members who served
Geelong Harbour Trust Band — Double Event winners, Ballarat
Volunteer Rifle Band sculptures, Geelong waterfront
Band parade through central Geelong
Geelong Artillery Town Band — Mack's Hotel
What We Stand For
Our Values
Tradition
We honour over 160 years of brass band heritage, performing with the discipline and pride that defines the tradition.
Community
Geelong Brass exists to serve the Geelong community — at civic events, festivals, and concerts that bring people together.
Excellence
Every performance is prepared with care and commitment. We hold ourselves to the highest musical standards.
Inclusivity
We welcome brass players of all backgrounds and experience levels who share a love of the music and the tradition.
Join Us
Become Part of the Story
Geelong Brass is always looking for passionate brass players to join our ranks. Whether you're an experienced performer or returning to the instrument after a break, we'd love to hear from you. Rehearsals are held weekly in Geelong.