Cloverdale Community Centre is moving ahead with plans to grow the newly-formed North Geelong Community Big Band thanks to support from the Geelong Community Foundation.
The Centre received a grant for $10,100 to enable more people to join the band. The grant was among $932,500 allocated to 46 Geelong groups and organisations, thanks to the generosity of donors and supporters of Geelong Community Foundation.
Other grant recipients supporting programs in 3214 included Kids Thrive ($35,000), Ardoch ($15,000), Bluebird Foundation ($30,000) and Norlane Community Initiatives ($40,000).
The North Geelong Community Big Band is a newly formed group of music enthusiasts, in particular northern suburbs residents, from as young as 13. The band formalises the involvement of musicians and performers who are regular participants in Cloverdale Community Centre programs.
Cloverdale manager Liz Bonner said the band’s aim is to encourage participation and performance, as well as provide opportunities for skill development for musicians.
“The band is under the leadership of our Preparing to Perform tutor Ian Burrowes (pictured) and has continued to grow since the start of this year. It has performed at other centre functions, as well as community activities including Music from the Neighbourhood.
“There is no other similar band or program in the northern suburbs, possibly Geelong, and we are delighted to have received the grant. It will be used to formalise the band, buy equipment and employ a local music director.”
The band meets at 10 Wendover Avenue, Norlane, every Thursday from 6.30pm-9pm. For more information phone Liz Bonner, 5275-4415.