What I See with Peter Fiorenza: Geraldton City Band reminds me how much talent we have in our own backyard

What did you do on Australia Day? I had a pretty good day. As a councillor with the city, I joined mayor Jerry Clune and others for an Australia Day in Mullewa for breakfast at the town pool. It was a terrific morning supported by plenty of locals, who were keen to share in the bacon and eggs we served up off the barbecue, along with some happy chatter. However, it was an event later in the day that really grabbed my interest — and that was the seniors afternoon tea provided by the good people of Rotary. I took my mum and her friend Janette along, not really knowing what to expect. We were pleasantly surprised to find that a major part of the entertainment was being provided by the Geraldton City Band. Now, as a Geraldton boy I have always been aware of the city band, but haven’t really kept abreast of the group in recent times. Well, I’ll be. On Australia Day the Geraldton City Band put together a concert performance that I believe would sit up there with any band of its type, anywhere. After an introduction that reminded us about the band’s history and its makeup, those present at the QEII Centre were indeed treated to something very special. Apparently, a Geraldton brass band can be traced back to the late 1800s, but officially the current entity has been in existence since 1962. I can tell you, the talent of these local musicians is truly amazing. The group started off their set with some regular numbers that showed off the versatility of the many instruments that make up the ensemble. But when they played a selection of pieces from world renowned band Coldplay, they really got my attention. I know it’s an old saying, but my jaw dropped. The rendition was spot on. This was something I didn’t expect, and another example of not being aware of or paying attention to the talent and expertise we have in our own backyard. You could see the cross section of musicians — both men and women of various ages — that make up the Geraldton City Band are very enthusiastic and proud of what they do and provide for the community. Thanks Geraldton City Band, and thanks also to Rotary for a fabulous afternoon. Peter Fiorenza is a radio host on Radio MAMA and Radio Geraldton. He will return to the airwaves in early February.