NEW ZEALAND BANDS IN FRANCE.

Otago Witness, Issue 3382, 8 January 1919, Page 53

NEW ZEALAND BANDS IN FRANCE.

The movements of the brass band of 38 players associated with the 15th New Zealand Reinforcements makes interesting reading when related by Conductor-lieutenant Brunnette, who has returned to the dominion after being in charge .since its inception. In England the members underwent the preparatory tjraining all soldiers receive before leaving for France, and on arrival at the front they took up the work of stretcher-bearers and fatigue workers in the lines. In between times they woukl discourse music out of the trenches but within range of the guns. During one of these performances a shell landed in their midst, killing two and wounding several, while the remainder suffered from shell shock. The band also suffered severely by loss of instruments, 18 of a new Besson set, purchased at between £6OO and £7OO, being smashed to pieces. This was a setback, for by assiduous practising the band had reached a high standard of efficiency. It was brought up to full strength, however, and new "instruments purchased, but of the original 38 members only seven now remain. The band was very successful at the competitions in France this year, carrying,, off first prize, ■with 14 bands competing. Speaking of the competition work of the New Zealand bands the English judge remarked upon their high state of efficiency. Lieutenant Brunnette received promotion—from sergeant to his present rank—in the field.