A fantastic update on the newly formed Hyde Street Training Band from David Greilach, President of the Hyde Street Youth Band –

“I am very pleased to advise that thanks largely to the funding received from the 2019 Community Pitch, the Hyde Street Youth Band Inc. was able to launch the Hyde Street Training Band (HSTB) under our Absolute Beginners Project.

The funds received have covered the cost of us engaging Caitlin Taylor as Musical Director for this group for the first twelve months as well as purchase some additional percussion equipment.

In the latter part of 2019, HSYB has had to focus heavily on other issues however, and have plans to engage with teachers at local schools to increase the number of children in this ensemble in 2020.

The HSTB are doing well and the kids in this ensemble will be doing their first public performance at our end of year concert. The support provided through the pitch is acknowledged in the program with donors logos and names on the back.

This year HSYB Inc. has unfortunately been evicted from our current band room as the building is being demolished as part of the development of the Footscray Education Precinct. This has been a major focus for us as we have had to work with council and engage local politicians to find a new home and arrange relocation. As a result, HSYB Inc. will be moving into Victoria Uni for the next year or so with more work needing to be done to find a permanent home.”