Since 1898, the City of Perth Band has been a cornerstone of Western Australia's music scene. Evolving from the Perth Federal Band, it stands as a leading ensemble with a legacy of excellence and community service.
The City of Perth Band traces its origins to 1898 when Harry Piper Jr., who had previously been a member of the Latrobe Federal Band in Tasmania, formed what was initially known as the Perth Federal Band. By 1900, the band was already making its mark in Perth's cultural scene, playing at events such as the celebration of Australia's Federation.
In January 1905, the band formally changed its name to the Perth City Band under the leadership of conductor Bill Partington. That same year, the band competed at the prestigious South Street Competition in Ballarat, Victoria, marking the beginning of a proud competitive tradition.
From 1933 to 1945, the band served as the regimental band of the 11th Battalion City of Perth Regiment, balancing military duties with civilian performances. During World War II, the band went into recess, with many members serving in the armed forces.
In 1947, the band reformed after the war and was given use of a building in Robertson Park by the Perth City Council. Under conductors like Harrie Halvorsen, the band achieved tremendous success in competitions, including winning consecutive State Championships through the 1950s and 1960s.
The band's horizons expanded internationally with three successful tours to Singapore and Malaysia in 1967, 1970, and 1974. These tours established valuable cultural connections and showcased Western Australian musical talent abroad.
For many years, the band's monthly Cabaret Dances at venues like Anzac House and Subiaco Civic Centre were a Perth institution, providing both entertainment and vital fundraising.
In the 1980s, the band established a Junior Brass Band under the guidance of Norm Snow, providing training for a new generation of musicians. The 1990s saw further evolution with the formation of a Concert Band to complement the traditional Brass Band.
In 1998, the band celebrated its centenary with a special concert featuring distinguished guests and a march composed for the occasion by former member Wayne Duncan.
The band moved to its current home in the Sir Charles Court Music Centre in Queens Gardens in 1999, marking a new chapter in its history.
Today, the City of Perth Band continues its twin traditions of musical excellence and community service, performing at civic events, church processions, concerts, and competitions throughout Western Australia.
The band has benefited from the leadership of many distinguished conductors, including:
For over 125 years, the City of Perth Band has remained true to its motto: "A Sound Tradition since 1898." As one of Western Australia's oldest community music groups, the band continues to enrich Perth's cultural landscape while preserving the brass band tradition for future generations.
For the full story of the City of Perth Band, download our comprehensive 70-page historical document compiled by band member John Bentley. This detailed chronicle includes rare photographs, personal stories, competition results, and fascinating insights into over 125 years of Perth's musical heritage.
Follow a pictorial history of the City of Perth Band, including photographs from 1896 to 2011, compiled by band member John Bentley.
