FYCB Newsletter #2 February 2026

CUPID: BLOW THAT HORN!
Tickets are on sale now for FYCB’s night of romantic nights - our Valentine’s Cabaret! Click here to book and find out more.

FYCB in the Christmas Spirit
The final months of 2025 were a vibrant and rewarding period for Footscray Yarraville City Band (FYCB) and Western Brass (FYWB), marked by a series of performances that celebrated music-making, strengthened community connections, and reflected the strong sense of pride within our organisations. As the year drew to a close, both bands were delighted to share the joy of live music across a variety of festive settings, from local shopping streets to much-loved community gardens.

Collaboration was a key theme of the festive season, highlighted by the joint performance of FYCB and Western Brass at the inaugural Carols in the West on 13 December 2025. Held at the picturesque Footscray Gardens, this new community event brought together families, friends, and local residents to celebrate the start of the Christmas season. Performing side by side showcased the depth of talent across both ensembles and reinforced the strong bonds between our bands. The combination of carols, seasonal favourites, and the energy of an enthusiastic audience made the evening a memorable experience for performers and listeners alike, and a promising addition to the local events calendar.

The festive season culminated in one of FYCB’s most cherished annual events, Carols in the Gardens, presented on 20 December 2025. With a large and appreciative crowd in attendance, the evening was a joyful celebration of music and community. The Footscray Yarraville Percussion Academy and Western Brass both performed as part of this year’s Community Hour prior to the main event, delighting audiences and proudly showcasing the breadth of our organisation. A combined ensemble of FYCB and WB musicians then treated the audience to a rich program of well-loved carols, engaging arrangements, and outstanding solo performances from both band members and guest singers. The atmosphere throughout the night reflected the true meaning of the season – togetherness, generosity, and shared celebration.

These successful events were made possible through the dedication and leadership of many individuals. Special thanks go to Brenton Burley and David Palmer for their tireless work behind the scenes, coordinating musicians, logistics, and programming to ensure everything ran smoothly. We also extend our heartfelt appreciation to the soloists whose performances added depth and sparkle to the program, and to the many volunteers who supported the events in countless ways.

The Ones That Got Away: A Landmark Night for Western Brass

November 2025 marked a major milestone for Western Brass with the presentation of its inaugural cabaret concert, The Ones That Got Away. This sell-out event was the band’s first-ever stand-alone concert, and it proved to be a powerful celebration of where Western Brass has come from — and where it is headed next.

The cabaret also symbolised an important moment of transition for the band, with Western Brass proudly announcing its new name: Footscray–Yarraville Western Brass. The change brings the band into alignment with the other ensembles in the Footscray Yarraville City Band inc. organisation, reflecting a shared identity and a strong, united future.

Adding to the significance of the evening was the return of former Musical Directors Brenton Burley and Erin Ellenburg, who each took to the podium to conduct alongside current Musical Director Jared McCunnie. Their involvement created a rare and meaningful opportunity to reflect on the band’s musical journey, reconnecting past and present through a program that showcased Western’s growth in sound, confidence, and ambition over the years.

The Ones That Got Away was more than just a concert — it was a statement of intent. The energy, musicianship, and audience response demonstrated what this band is capable of when given its own spotlight. As Footscray–Yarraville Western Brass looks ahead to competing at the National Championships in Brisbane in 2026, excitement is building for what promises to be the next exciting chapter in the band’s story.

Footscray Yarraville Brass Academy Returns in 2026

Footscray Yarraville Brass Academy (FYBA) is back for 2026, welcoming adults who are new to brass music or returning after a long break. FYBA is a beginner-friendly program designed to build confidence, skills, and a love of making music in a supportive and relaxed environment.

Participants will be provided with a brass instrument, making it easy to get started without needing to organise your own. Whether you’ve always wanted to try a brass instrument or are dusting off skills from years ago, FYBA is the perfect place to begin.

The program will be led by Dan Caton, who brings experience, encouragement, and a passion for helping new musicians find their feet. FYBA resumes on Sunday 8 February from 4:00pm and runs during the school term.

For enquiries or to register your interest, please contact contact@fycb.com.au.

We thank our musicians, volunteers, supporters, sponsors, and loyal audiences for their continued enthusiasm and generosity, and we look forward to sharing many more musical moments with you in the year ahead.