BOYS’ HIGH SCHOOL BAND

Southland Times, Issue 23674, 24 November 1938, Page 9

BOYS’ HIGH SCHOOL BAND

ASSOCIATION FORMED TO GIVE ASSISTANCE An association to assist the drum, trumpet and bugle band of the Southland Boys’ High School in any possible way in the future has been formed. The decision to form the High School Drum, Trumpet and Bugle Band Association was made at a meeting of parents, old boys and supporters on Tuesday night. Mr W. Stewart was appointed president and Mr O. G. Williams secretary. A strong committee was appointed. It is the aim of the association to equip the band with smart dress uniforms when funds have accumulated or when the support of the Defence Department has been obtained. It His been decided to issue honorary tickets and honorary members are being enrolled by the secretary. It was stated at the meeting that in Lieutenant J. L. Napier’s opinion the band would, in the near future, eclipse any other band with which he had been associated. The band is at present the largest of its kind in Australia and New Zealand. It consists of 50 members—l 9 drummers, 30 trumpeters and buglers, and the conductor. The present strong position of the band is a result of the efforts made by Mr H. W. Slater, Dr G. H. Uttley, the Defence Department, the Board of Governors of the High School and supporters. The band has been built up during the past seven months under the leadership of Mr Napier, but because of lack .of equipment, which has been collected from all parts of the Dominion, many of the boys were unable to practice until three or four weeks ago. The members attend at the school for practice three mornings each week and also one evening. A parade through the city will be held at 3.15 p.m. and again at 7 p.m. tomorrow and the public will be given an idea of its efficiency. The band has been successful in obtaining the services of Mr A. McColl, formerly drum-sergeant of the Dunedin Highland and Pipe Band, who came to Southland recently. Mr McColl as a boy was a member of Mr Napier’s band in Dunedin. On several occasions he has won the Highland Pipe Band drumming championship and his skill should soon be reflected ji i the performances of the band.