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The Australian Army BAND CORPS The best gig in town ‘The Australian Army Band Corps ABOUT THE GIG is proud to carry the tradition of being a major bearer of this nation’s musical identity.’ THE AUSTRALIAN ARMY BAND CORPS The best gig in town
The Australian Defence Force (ADF) is one Musicians in the AABC gain immense The creative environment of the AABC of the largest employers of professional satisfaction performing a range of styles. encourages ongoing development, musicians in Australia. A military band is Apart from the symphonic concert band presenting the opportunity to acquire a a versatile ensemble presenting an ideal and marching band, other ensembles may range of skills and in turn, invaluable opportunity for competent instrumentalists include; woodwind & brass quintets, jazz experience. Opportunities exist to further to secure a rewarding career. The combos or a fanfare team, vocal ensemble, your musical development funded by the Australian Army Band Corps (AABC) aims folk group, big band and contemporary ADF. And if you have a desire to extend to achieve musical excellence in a variety cover band. yourself beyond performance, you can of musical combinations, actively reaching learn creative skills in sound engineering, out to the community. Army bands provide Along with a great pay package, there lighting, arranging & composition, musical support to community events, is the opportunity to travel the world conducting, information technology, charity organisations and educational representing Australia. A fulfilling aspect instrument repair, human resource programs, whilst fulfilling its military and of being in the Band Corps is that you management, stage management, ceremonial responsibilities. gain a sense of purpose and satisfaction Occupational Health and Safety, public knowing that your performances can relations and much more. There are opportunities in six full-time help make a difference to the local and (Regular Army) and numerous part- international communities while serving a time (Army Reserve) AABC bands, with vital role in your military duties. representation in every capital city in Australia.
MAIN MENU WELCOME
Welcome to the Australian Army Band Corps interactive CD, you will find a range of relevant information with regard to joining the creative environment of the Band Corps. There are wonderful opportunities for you to consolidate your performance experience whilst enjoying the benefits provided by Defence. Take the time to navigate through this site – it could be your first step towards a wonderful future as a professional musician within the Army.
LTCOL Pickett Director of Music - Army Commandant - Defence Force School of Music
MAIN MENU EQUIPMENT/INSTRUMENTS
Examples of the makes of musical LIGHTING RIGS LIVE RIGS instruments provided by the AABC: By Martin Lights A small to medium sized portable PA • Martin MX10 Extreme Scanners comprising of 4 (2 monitors, 2 front of NB: This product list is not an endorsement • Martin Pro 518 Scanners house) EAW JFX290 Mid/Hi Drivers of the companies listed as products used by • Martin Robocolor Pro 400 Color Changers coupled with 2 FR250z subwoofers, the the AABC and are subject to change at any • Martin Lightjockey PC Based Controllers front of house system is controlled by an time in accordance with ADF operational and • Look Solutions Unique2 Hazers XTA DP226 Speaker Management System training needs. • A quantity of Brown’s Welding 3 metre tri driving 2 quad channel D class lightweight truss Powersoft amplifiers. The Mixer is a 32 INSTRUMENTS • A quantity of Design Quintessence 2.5 Ch Allen & Heath 4 Bus Desk with 6 AUX Flute: Muramatsu metre tri truss sends. Dynamics processing is supplied by Clarinet: Buffet - Crampon Drawmer through 4 channels of MX30 gate/ www.martin.com. compressor/limiters and 4 channels of MX40 Oboe: T.Ward www.looksolutions.com. punch gates. M OneXL Reverb and D Two Bassoon: Schreiber Delay units are supplied by T.C. Electronics, Saxophone: Yamaha/Yanagasawa RECORDING AND SOUND 31 Band Graphic EQs are from the Symetrix Horns: Holton EQUIPMENT range. Microphones are selected from Trumpet: Yamaha Shure, Audix, Audio Technica and Rode. • ProTools HD system with 96I/Os Trombone: Getzen • Control 24 control surface with 16 inbuilt There are smaller systems consisting of an Euphonium: Besson Focusrite preamplifiers, 16 channels of Allen & Heath PA12 Mixer coupled with 2 Tuba: Besson remote controlled Digidesign microphone FBT450 15” horn load active speakers. Bass Guitar: Warwick preamplifiers, 1 Avalon AD2022 dual Electric Guitar: Fender channel mic pre and 1 Amek Pure Path Dual Mic-amp Drum Kit: Pearl • Compressor-Limiter Percusion: LP • mic preamplifiers, • Selection of microphones and plugins SOFTWARE from various manufacturers including Royer, Neumann, Rode, Audio Technica Music writing software by Sibelius and Shure. MAIN MENU ENLISTMENT PROCEDURES
ENLISTMENT PROCEDURE FLOW CHART: Contact Defence Force Recruiting, the Defence Force School of Music or local Army Band to obtain recruiting information
Organise interview/ audition with an AABC Music Director directly or via Defence Force Recruiting
Upon successful completion of the audition you will be advised which avenue of entry is suitable for you
Contact Defence Recruiting to lodge an application form and to arrange for further ADF aptitude and medical testing (This may involve many weeks/months to finalise)
Defence Force Recruiting will advise you of examination results and offer recruit training
Attend training at Army Recruit Training Centre (ARTC), Kapooka, Wagga Wagga NSW
Qualified Entry Unqualified Entry Induction Training Army Technical & Trade Scheme (DFSM - 6 weeks) (DFSM - self paced up to 15 months)
On the job training at an AABC Unit (4–12 months to reach minimum job standard)
MAIN MENU | >> ENLISTMENT PROCEDURES
FULL-TIME PART-TIME There are two avenues of entry into the Australian Army If you are unable to commit to a full-time job in the Band Corps: Australian Army Band Corps, then a part-time position may be the way to go. 1. Qualified Entry, 2. Army Technical and Trade Scheme (ATTS) Army Reserve bands offer musicians the chance to work in a similar environment to that of a full-time AABC unit. All applicants to the AABC are required to pass an The part-time nature of the reserve bands is ideal for audition conducted by an AABC Trade Testing Officer, people who are studying, have just finished school or in addition to meeting all other ADF enlistment criteria. who are looking for a part-time job in the music industry. Applicants are required to perform their instrument to a very high standard, with the majority of musicians Enlistment criteria for the Army Reserve (part-time) is the being diploma or degree qualified and having extensive same as for the Regular Army (full-time). Personnel are performance experience. All qualifications aside, a high required to complete recruit training at Kapooka in NSW, level of sight reading ability and musicianship is what the however this training is considerably shorter than that AABC is seeking. required of a full-time soldier, and may be deferred for up to six months after enlistment. A Musician applying for entry into the AABC who is not yet at the standard required to enter via Qualified Entry Any ongoing musicianship training is conducted in the may be selected to study at the Defence Force School Unit location, rather than at the Defence Force School of of Music (DFSM) as a trainee musician through the Army Music in Melbourne. Technical and Trade Scheme (ATTS). Benefits offered to reserve musicians include professional As a guide, the performance entry level to Qualified instruments, uniforms, and some meal and travel Entry is comparable to the Australian Music Examination allowances where applicable. Army Reserve pay is tax- Board (AMEB) Associate Diploma level (Initial term of free and does not affect unemployment benefits, Austudy employment for Qualified Entry being 3 years), whereas or other incomes. the performance entry level to ATTS is comparable to AMEB Grade 7 (ATTS initial term of employment being 6 There are also part-time employment opportunities years). available in all full-time bands.
You can also be a part-time musician in a full-time band. << | MAIN MENU | >> ENLISTMENT PROCEDURES
MILITARY TRAINING All General Entry recruits into the Australian Army are required to complete the Recruit Course at the Army Recruit Training Centre.
Total Duration: Full-time - 80 days Part-time - 28 days
Location: Kapooka, Wagga Wagga, NSW.
When you have completed basic recruit training you will have reached the standard of a basic soldier. You will have developed the qualities and acquired the knowledge, skills and attitudes which are necessary to progress further in the Army.
For more details on recruit training, refer to the Joining instructions. These instructions will provide you and your family with enough information to arrange your personal affairs before enlistment in the Army and to give you an idea of what you will be doing on the recruit course.
During Military (Initial Recruit) Training and (Initial) Employment Training, members may be required to pay a contribution towards meals, accommodation and utilities.
<< | MAIN MENU | >> ENLISTMENT PROCEDURES
ROUTINE Full-time routine: A typical weekly routine for full-time AABC yet another form of exposing personnel to members includes personal performance sports such as canoeing, caving, abseiling, development, section practice, marching parachuting, scuba diving and sailing, to name band, two hours of physical training and just a few. approximately 20 hours of ensemble rehearsals. Administration is required to be Part-time routine undertaken by various members of the band to Reserve bands usually have rehearsals once ensure the effectiveness of the unit. Of course a week, most often on Tuesday evenings rehearsal routines may vary throughout the between 7 – 10pm. Public performances are year due to tours, courses, recording projects generally held no more than once a month, and performances. including the possibility of additional small ensemble performances. Like all members of the ADF, AABC personnel Basic Fitness Assessments (involving running, are required to maintain a basic level of sit ups and push ups) and weapon tests are soldiering skills and physical fitness. Two held twice a year, whilst medical checks are assessments are held each year to record the programmed for once a year and a dental member’s level of ability in weapons’ handling check once every 5 years. and physical & aerobic fitness. Time is set aside specifically to maintain these skills under The routine for reserve musicians working part- the guidance of qualified physical training time in Regular Army Bands (full-time bands) is instructors. flexible and can be negotiated with the Music Director. Sport also has a significant role to play in the ADF and is not only an ideal way of maintaining fitness but also encourages a team mentality. With this in mind the Australian Army provide opportunities to develop and maintain a high level of skill in sport. Adventure training is
<< | MAIN MENU BENEFITS
MEDICAL AND DENTAL • Homes managed by the Defence Housing OTHER BENEFITS INCLUDE: Authority are available to recognised TREATMENT • Provision of professional quality musical couples in locations conveniently instruments and equipment. The ADF provides free medical, optical and positioned close to work areas. dental treatment required to maintain health. • Opportunities to travel the world. A comprehensive compensation scheme is In the event of relocation, a professional • Monetary allowances when on tour. also available if required. team of removalists will not only pack your • An excellent superannuation and benefits possessions but also remove much of the package. LEAVE stress associated with moving to your new • State of the art facilities - rehearsal residence. auditoriums, practice & recording studios. As a member of the ADF you will be entitled • Training - the Defence Force School of to up to 20 days leave per year as well as Helpful staff from Defence Housing Authority Music offers further education and training being compensated for weekends worked. will assist in finding accommodation in to support and enhance your career. Additional leave can be granted for special your new location. They also provide • Interest subsidised home loans. purposes such as maternity (14 weeks full information on local schools, shopping pay) and compassionate leave. centres, recreational facilities and partner PAY employment possibilities to help make the ACCOMMODATION SUBSIDIES Part-time pay is approximately $120 a day transition as smooth as possible. - tax free (once fully qualified). For full-time The three main types of accommodation committment you are starting at around subsidies provided for ADF personnel and For more information on subsidised housing $50,000 p/a once fully qualified. their families are: provided by the ADF visit www.dha.gov.au For detailed information on the great pay • Rental assistance is available to rates visit www.defence.gov.au/dpe/pac significantly subsidise living costs. Or call Family Information Network Defence (and look in ‘Salary Rates’) • Live-in accommodation is available (FIND) on: 1800 020 031 for personnel wishing to live in quality OPPORTUNITIES FOR TRAVEL accommodation in a military area with the FIND will endeavour to provide a point of convenience of meals being provided at a contact relating to your enquiry, including substantial discount. information involving recruit march-out parades.
MAIN MENU | >> BENEFITS/TRAVEL
Click on a destination to view photos
<< | MAIN MENU DEFENCE FORCE SCHOOL OF MUSIC
STRIVING FOR EXCELLENCE classrooms, library, a 300-seat auditorium, Our Mission office space, lounge, entertainment and The Defence Force School of Music is a To deliver professional music training that meets social areas. the needs of service bands within the Australian world-class music training institution. The school’s purpose is to deliver professional Defence Force The teaching staff comprises of some of music training that meets the needs of the best and most experienced military Australian Defence Force bands. The school Our Vision musicians and instructors from within the keeps pace with changes in music and The Defence Force School of Music is a best Defence Force, as well as civilian instructors learning methods and is an internationally practice organisation that delivers ‘in time’ training drawn from leading tertiary institutions and for all service bands, at all times remaining recognised and accredited training private practice. responsive to changing customer requirements. organisation. It is also the home of the ADF’s music knowledge and traditions. The credo: The school remains an industry leader, recognised The school also offers training to striving for excellence. both nationally and internationally as a world class musicians from overseas defence forces, professional music teaching facility. It sets the Australian emergency services and police The school boasts some of the best training standard of music training through its technical organisations. competence, innovative and resourceful methods facilities of any defence force worldwide. and administrative proficiency. The main building is purpose built and The Defence Force School of Music is contains 80 individual practice studios, an located 15km North East of Melbourne Our Values outdoor performance area, recording studio, within Simpson Barracks, Macleod. The Defence Force School of Music embraces the It consists of a purpose built training values of teamwork, courage and initiative, and recognises that mutual respect and commitment are establishment and the Head Quarters of essential to obtaining superior results in the training the Australian Army Band Corps known as and performance environment. ‘Meares House’.
Music is a dynamic and evolving discipline that Meares House is an impressive structure requires regular evaluations of training regimes. Such training must reflect that the very nature of completed in 1936 in the style of an English music performance requires musicians to constantly Manor, formally owned by the late Doctor strive for excellence in every field of their endeavour. Ainsley Meares - eminent psychiatrist and author.
http://www.army.gov.au/dfsm/
MAIN MENU AUDITION GUIDE
THE AUDITION PROCESS written/theoretical components. Each are the other musicians in the section, play detailed in the sections that follow. in a range of styles and to follow musical The audition usually takes place over an directions. extended period (in most cases two days) and includes 5 basic parts PERFORMANCE BASED Full band rehearsal a. section rehearsal, ASSESSMENTS b. full band rehearsal, Section rehearsal The Full Band Rehearsal would ideally follow c. practical audition on from section rehearsal. This rehearsal (including technical work), In the section rehearsal you will demonstrate creates an opportunity for us to see you d. theory assessment, and your ability in a small group environment. in the situation most relevant to your e. aural assessment. The relevant Section Leader would run this employment in the AABC. session and it would typically involve the Performance ability is the main criteria for music used in the full band rehearsal. It may We would be looking for the ability to determining suitability for employment, take place either before or after the full band balance, blend, play with good intonation however the additional assessments rehearsal. and time and follow the conductor’s give a clearer overall picture of a your directions. capabilities. This assists us in determining Some instruments do not form part of a the appropriate entry level and identifying section eg we don’t have oboe or bass Practical audition guitar sections. Where section rehearsal is individual training requirements. Practical audition would follow all other not possible due to instrumental constraints, assessments (including written) so that a eg no section to rehearse with, then a small All candidates accepted as Australian clear picture of you is emerging as your group rehearsal (Woodwind quintet/rhythm Regular Army musicians must attend presentation begins. Typically this would section) may be more appropriate. the Defence Force School of Music on include: completion of recruit training to undergo a. Prepared works, This session usually lasts 45 minutes to Corps Indoctrination Training. b. Technical work, an hour, and allows us to hear you in a c. Sight-reading, and variety of styles. The section leader would The audition process comprises d. 24-hour list (optional). performance-based assessments and be looking for your ability to blend with
MAIN MENU | >> AUDITION GUIDE
Prepared works. Candidates select three these may also be required. In addition to WRITTEN COMPONENTS contrasting works of a standard appropriate these, candidates may be asked to perform Performance ability is the main criteria for to their perceived entry standard. As a guide, chromatic scales or sustained tones of the determining the suitability of an applicant, candidates should choose works between assessor’s choice. however additional assessments give a 8th grade and Licentiate AMEB. clearer overall picture of your capabilities. The auditioning officer will ask for individual The following assessments assist in The minimum standard for a Band Corps pieces of technical work from the required determining the appropriate entry level while musician (Qualified Entry) is a performance list. identifying individual training requirements. standard equivalent to AMEB AMusA. Players who fail to meet this standard Sight-reading. Candidates will be asked to may be accepted into training positions perform sight-reading to demonstrate their Theory testing (Unqualified Entry) for either Basic Musician ability in this area. There are three components to this Course (conducted at the Defence Force assessment: School of Music - DFSM) or on-job training As a supplement to the sight reading, a a. general rudiments, via Corps Induction. 24-hour list may be used. A player’s ability b. harmony and musicianship, and to prepare works at short notice is arguably c. a general questionnaire. Technical work. Candidates are expected as valuable as pure sight-reading in our to present technical work in all keys. Major, context. The first two components should take Melodic and Harmonic minor scales are approximately one hour each, however it required, along with arpeggio, broken 24-hour list. If a two-day model is adopted, is expected that some candidates would arpeggio, dominant and diminished candidates can be given music on day one complete each in a significantly shorter sevenths, and broken dominant and that is to be prepared and presented on amount of time. The general questionnaire diminished sevenths. day two. This may allow a candidate with is usually completed before the day of the average sight-reading ability to demonstrate audition and should be provided either prior Whilst any format for the technical work their ability to prepare works at short notice. to, or at the start of day one. is acceptable, it will need to be presented over two octaves (where possible within This component is optional and would be the range) both ascending and descending used in conjunction with, rather than in place using varied articulations. Where three of, sight-reading. octaves are possible within the range << | MAIN MENU | >> AUDITION GUIDE
General rudiments. This assessment covers Candidates with good performance in all b. Individual assessment: conducted one the candidate’s basic knowledge of musical other areas could be encouraged to develop on one, with the candidate required to theory. It covers the base level of musical these skills prior to enlistment, yet typically display various components such as general knowledge expected of a musician this would be completed by during Corps sight singing (sol-fa is preferred), singing in the AABC. Indoctrination Training. intervals above or below given notes, rhythmic reading, ‘singing and clapping’ Candidates with a limited experience in Copies of the DFSM Theory packages can and ‘conducting and singing’. this area would need to complete theory be used as study guides and are available modules from the DFSM. Depending upon from AABC units via your host. performance in other areas it may be deemed appropriate that this is completed Aural testing as part of the Basic Musician Course. In The aural assessment comprises two parts. the case of exceptional performers, these competencies may be gained prior to a. Group assessment: conducted under enlistment and assessed during Corps assessment conditions from a CD. It Indoctrination Training. includes interval recognition, chord progression recognition, melodic and Harmony and musicianship. This rhythmic dictation. A sample of the assessment deals with the slightly more assessment items is provided to give you advanced areas of voice-leading, four-part an idea of how this assessment will be writing and musical form. conducted.
<< | MAIN MENU PROMOTION STRUCTURE
TRAINEE
MUSICIAN
LANCE CORPORAL
CORPORAL (SECTION LEADER)
SERGEANT (GROUP LEADER)
WARRANT OFFICER CLASS TWO / STAFF SERGEANT (CHIEF CLERK OR BAND QUARTER MASTER STOREMAN)
NON COMMISSIONED COMMISSIONED
WARRANT OFFICER CLASS 2 (BSM1) LIEUTENANT (COMPLETING OFFICER TRAINING)
CAPTAIN2 (2ND IN COMMAND)
WARRANT OFFICER CLASS 1 (BSM) MAJOR (MUSIC DIRECTOR)
LIEUTENANT COLONEL - AABC DIRECTOR OF MUSIC
Military & music courses need to be successfully completed to qualify musicians for promotion. There are various pay increases according to the rank and length of time in that rank.
1 Band Sergeant Major - (Band Manager) or Bandmaster (Music Director) in some units. 2 An AABC Music Director in some Reserve Bands
MAIN MENU | >> PROMOTION STRUCTURE
CAREER ADVANCEMENT AND musician’s current employment status or to Defence Requirements retrain personnel for future employment. ONGOING TRAINING Entry into the AABC is the same as for any other corps of the Australian Regular Army There are two forms of income progression Members of the AABC also have the and candidates must pass aptitude tests in the ADF. Your income will increase by opportunity to become solo performers. and be physically and medically fit before promotion and via pay group increases. This requires the presentation of a formal signing for the minimum period of service3. AABC musicians’ pay group is directly program to an examining officer and upon related to the level of musicianship successful completion entitles the member It is a requirement to be a minimum age of attained. to a higher pay group. For the latest pay 17 to enter the Australian Army. Australian scales refer to Defence Force Recruiting citizens (or those who hold permanent Promotions are awarded based on merit pay rates. and successful completion of promotion residency status or are eligible to become one) are eligible to serve in the Australian courses. All members completing AABC Posting Policy promotion courses are recognised with Defence Force after completing recruit 4 a civilian accreditation (Statement of Postings within the AABC are usually for a training at Kapooka in New South Wales. Attainment), diplomas and/or degrees in three-year period and offer the chance to the field of personnel and human resource forge lasting friendships all over Australia. For more information on current management including music. Factors such as personal preference, family requirements for enlistment into the welfare and compassionate circumstances Australian Regular Army, visit www. Service personnel are also offered the are taken into consideration when posting defencejobs.gov.au or call Defence Force opportunity to undertake further studies personnel. After successful completion Recruiting on 131901. with civilian organisations to enhance of the audition, you may discuss with the their profession. Financial assistance Trade Testing Officer whether vacancies are may be granted by the Defence Assisted available for your instrument in the various Study Scheme if the studies improve the bands.
3 ATTS - 6 years, Corps Enlistment (General Entry) 3 years. 4 For detailed information regarding length and type of training involved at 1RTB Kapooka contact Defence Force Recruiting on 131901 or visit your local Defence Careers Reference Centre.
<< | MAIN MENU MEET A MUSO
Musician Williamson (Trainee) Lorelei first picked up the horn at 15 and started having lessons from her mother in Darwin. Playing an instrument that was desperately needed saw her join the Darwin Youth Orchestra just a few months later where she continued to play for the next 2 years. During that time she also played in the Palmerston Concert Band, the Darwin Youth Wind Symphonic Band, and joined the Darwin Symphony Orchestra. She was a member of the DSO for another 6 years prior to leaving Darwin. In 2003 she joined the Army Reserve in Darwin and played with the Australian Army Band Darwin for 2 years where she developed a taste for the army and transferred to the Australian Regular Army in 2005. She now also plays bass guitar and sings at her church in Canberra.
Musician Manley (Part-Time Musician) Thomas has been playing the clarinet for 21 years and more recently, the saxophone, although his first exposure to music was in the Canberra Boys’ Choir. Tom currently plays with the Canberra City Band Inc, both in their Concert Band and in Spectrum (their big band), in addition to the RMC Band Duntroon. At one time Tom considered studying the clarinet at university; however, ended up taking a different route, instead studying science and engineering while maintaining an involvement in music socially. Since graduating from university, music has become an increasingly important part of Tom’s life, due, in part, to the Army Reserves, which has opened doors and created opportunities that would not have otherwise been available.
Musician Hall (Contemporary Musician) Doug has been playing saxophone for 11 years. After high school he studied saxophone with Ken Stubbs and freelanced playing in various corporate gigs and several shows. In 2004 Doug travelled to Japan and performed at the International Music Festival which had numerous performers from all over the world. Doug also taught saxophone privately and at several schools during this time and in 2004 joined the Artillery Band Brisbane as an Army Reservist. He studied contemporary music at the Conservatorium of Music in Brisbane in 2006, and in 2007 joined the Australian Regular Army.
MAIN MENU | >> MEET A MUSO
Musician Pepper (Classical Musician) Zoey Pepper completed a Bachelor of Music in 2000 at the Canberra School of Music, studying under Richard McIntyre OAM. In 2001 she toured with the Australian Youth Orchestra. Zoey has been a member of the Canberra Symphony Orchestra since 1999, playing regularly in their Subscription Series and appearing as guest Principal Bassoonist on a number of occasions. She performed as soloist in their Symphony for Kids series in 2005, and held the Friends of the CSO sponsorship chair in 2007. Zoey has held the position of Principal Bassoonist in the Canberra Pops Orchestra since 2005. Zoey joined the Australian Regular Army in 2003. She travelled to the Solomon Islands later that year, performing as back-up vocalist. She has performed as bassoon soloist as well as vocal soloist with the Band of the Royal Military College. Zoey commenced her Masters of Music in Bassoon at the Australian National University in 2006.
Lance Corporal Emmett (Stores/Admin) Melissa commenced learning the clarinet when in Primary school in Western Australia. She continued her instrumental studies throughout her secondary education and even though she hadn’t considered music as a career choice, Melissa thought she’d give it a go to see if she liked it. Following audition Melissa joined the Australian Regular Army and attended the Defence Force School of Music in Melbourne. Since graduation she has served in the Bands in Wagga Wagga, Sydney and Canberra. Melissa has enjoyed the flexibility of being full-time and part-time, and even left bands for a while, serving as a Military Policewoman, before returning to music.
Corporal O’Keeffe (Section Leader) Matthew commenced his studies with Alan Vivian at the Australian National University School of Music in 1994, completing his Bachelor of Music in 1999. Since completing his degree, Matthew has specialised in bass clarinet performance and is the principal bass clarinet of the Canberra Symphony Orchestra. Matthew has performed with the Canberra School of Music Orchestra, the Canberra Chamber Orchestra and the Canberra Choral Society. He has appeared in orchestras for the Australian Ballet, opera company Stopera and as a multi-instrumentalist with the Canberra Philharmonic Society productions Chicago, West Side Story, Les Miserables, Hello Dolly, Sweet Charity and the Australian premiere of Jekyll and Hyde. He is a founding member of Clarity Clarinet Quartet and performed throughout Australia and Europe making his international debut at St Martin- in the -Fields in 1998. He is regularly heard on ABC-Classic FM on numerous recordings on the Tall Poppies and Move Records labels. He is an experienced chamber musician and educator, and continues to be a sought after teacher. In 2004 Matthew joined the Australian Regular Army.
<< | MAIN MENU | >> MEET A MUSO
Sergeant Reynolds (Group Leader) Graeme has been a professional trumpet for nearly 30 years having completed a B.A.(Perf. Mus.) at the South Australian College of Advanced Education in 1981 and a B.MUS (Hons) from the University of Adelaide in 1984. He went onto to become Adelaide’s leading freelance trumpet player, prior to joining the Australian Army Band Adelaide as an Army Reservist in 1995. Graeme joined the Australian Regular Army in 1998. He has been deployed to Bougainville, East Timor and the Solomon Islands, and paraded at Buckingham Palace for the Changing of the Guard in 2000. He has also spent time on exchange to the New Zealand Army Band in 2002 and travelled to Japan for an International Marching Band Festival in 2005. Graeme currently enjoys performing with the Canberra Symphony Orchestra, developing Public Affairs projects and co- ordinating Chamber Music Concerts for the Band.
Warrant Officer Class Two Mason (Project Officer/Admin) Rod first joined the AABC as a trainee at the age of 17. Soon after joining, he was awarded a scholarship to study classical saxophone under the guidance of Dr Peter Clinch at the Canberra School of Music. Over the years Rod has performed and recorded with a variety of contemporary bands and has even been seen on Count Down! and MTV. However in recent times, he is best known for his innovative recording projects that provide tangible support to the community. These recordings have highlighted Rod’s skills in project concept and design, project management, marketing, distribution, script writing and musical direction.
Warrant Officer Class One Hooper (Band Manager) Steve started playing the drums at the age of 13. After completing his studies he joined the Army as an Army Reserve Musician in Adelaide and subsequently transferred to the Australian Regular Army. Since that time he has seen postings to many Army Bands and has performed extensively with a number of civilian music ensembles, ranging in genre from heavy rock through to jazz and orchestral performances. He currently plays with a corporate groove band, the Canberra Pops Orchestra, the Canberra Philharmonic Orchestra and many pit orchestras.
<< | MAIN MENU | >> MEET A MUSO
Lieutenant Bermingham (Understudy to Music Director) Lucy has been a pianist since the age of four. She was a vocalist in the Woden Valley Youth Choir and later became their accompanist. She has studied piano at the Canberra School of Music under the tuition of John Luxton and in 1994 joined the Australian Regular Army as a pianist and vocalist. Since joining the Army, Lucy has been deployed to Bougainville, East Timor and the Solomon Islands. In 2005 she undertook the Band Officer Course at the Defence Force School of Music, was promoted to Lieutenant in 2006 and currently holds the position of Second in Command of the Band of the Royal Military College. In her spare time Lucy is heavily involved in the choral, music theatre and music arranging arenas.
Major Grey (Music Director) Geoff started with music when, aged six, he was drafted as the seventh brother to join the Hamilton City Band and given a cornet. After studying Trumpet, Trombone, Clarinet, Piano, Theory and Musicianship at Ballarat and Clarendon College he joined the Australian Regular Army’s School of Music as a Trumpeter in 1981, graduating as a Clarinettist in 1982. He enjoyed several roles as an instrumentalist prior to being appointed to a Conductor’s position in 1993. Geoff has since held conducting appointments in Wagga Wagga, Perth, Sydney and Canberra.
Lieutenant Colonel Pickett (Director of Music - Army) Lieutenant Colonel Pickett was appointed as the Director of Music Army, Head of Corps of the Australian Army Band Corps and Commandant of the Defence Force School of Music in February 2004.
Lieutenant Colonel Pickett enlisted into the Australian Army as an Apprentice Musician in January 1972 and has risen through the ranks to his current appointment. He has served in the Royal Military College Band, Duntroon, the First Recruit Training Battalion Band, 4th Military District Band, the Defence Force School of Music as Training Development officer, and has commanded the Australian Army Band Kapooka and the Australian Army Band Brisbane. Please click here for full bio.
<< | MAIN MENU LTCOL PICKETT BIO at the Royal College of Music, the Royal Defence Force Band, Pipes and Drums and Academy of Music and Trinity College of Ceremonial element at the Edinburgh Military Music London where he was appointed as Tattoo, “A Salute to Australia”. Later that year Fellow in Conducting during 1988. On his he was the conductor for the Symphonic Wind return to Australia, he completed a Bachelor Band for Education Queenslands Musically of Music at the University of Melbourne and Outstanding Students program, MOST. is currently completing a Masters of Music in Instrumental Conducting at the Queensland The year of 2006 marked another significant LIEUTENANT COLONEL PATRICK Conservatorium of Music. year for Lieutenant Colonel Pickett’s PICKETT, CSM B Mus, FTCL, LRAM, professional involvement and contribution to ARCM, LTCL, ALCM During 1997, Lieutenant Colonel Pickett was major national and international events. In awarded the Conspicuous Service Medal on March 2006, he commanded the Tri-Service Lieutenant Colonel Pickett the Australia Day Honours List for services as Band element of the Commonwealth Games was appointed as the Officer Commanding and Music Director of in Melbourne, Australia. He also initiated the Director of Music Army, the Australian Army Band Kapooka. During ‘Army in Concert’ 2006 National Tour, which Head of Corps of the 1999, the title of “Citizen of the Year” was featured internationally-renown Australian Australian Army Band bestowed upon him by the Mayor of Wagga principal artists performing in 12 major capital Corps and Commandant of Wagga. Lieutenant Colonel Pickett has and regional cities throughout Australia. This the Defence Force School commanded bands on three tours of East project utilised his expertise as concept of Music in February 2004. Timor and two tours of Bougainville. For this designer and principal conductor. On an Service, he was awarded the Australian Active international scale, Lieutenant Colonel Pickett Lieutenant Colonel Pickett enlisted into the Service Medal (East Timor clasp) and the contributed as the Senior Music Director to Australian Army as an Apprentice Musician in Australian Service Medal (Bougainville clasp). the Brunei International Military Tattoo 2006. January 1972 and has risen through the ranks As a technical advisor and production director to his current appointment. He has served Lieutenant Colonel Pickett is in demand as and consultant, he closely assisted the Tattoo in the Royal Military College Band, Duntroon, a guest conductor, adjudicator and clinician Executives in their efforts to coordinate 13 the First Recruit Training Battalion Band, 4th throughout Australia. In January 2004 he countries to develop a major production in Military District Band, the Defence Force was appointed Adjunct Professor of the honour of His Majesty of Brunei Darussalam’s School of Music as Training Development University of Queensland where he lectures 60th birthday. In March 2007 LTCOL Pickett officer, and has commanded the Australian in Multi Instrumental Pedagogy, Instrumental lead an Australian Military band contingent to Army Band Kapooka and the Australian Army Conducting and Group Music Skills. He is the Penang in Malaysia to celebrate the Australian Band Brisbane. founding Director of the UQ Symphonic Wind Army 106 birthday and to acknowledge to ensemble. unique relationship the two countries shared. During 1985, Lieutenant Colonel Pickett was selected to attend the famed Royal Military In November 2004 he commanded a 70 Lieutenant Colonel Pickett’s personal interests School of Music, Kneller Hall in London piece Australian Army Concert Band on a include live music, choral singing, military where he completed the Bandmasters tour to Japan for the Japan Self Defence history and golf. course. Whilst in London he completed a Force Marching Festival. In January 2005 he Licentiate and Associate Diploma in music commanded and conducted the Australian
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WHAT INSTRUMENTS ARE YOU • technical work ( scales, etc) CAN I CONTINUE STUDYING LOOKING FOR? • aural perception & theoretical knowledge. WHILST IN THE ARMY? An Australian Army Band (full-time or Your audition results will determine the Yes. Provided that the study discipline is part-time) comprises of the following duration of training required at the Defence beneficial to the Army, the Army can provide instrumentation: Force School of Music (DFSM) in Melbourne. up to 75% of the cost of study in addition to Trumpet Trombone For full-time positions, this training ranges time off work to attend lectures and exams. Euphonium Tuba from six weeks up to 15 months. Saxophone Bassoon Successful auditions for part-time positions DO YOU TRAVEL? Oboe Flute/Piccolo will receive twelve months on-the-job training The opportunity exists for musicians to travel Clarinet (Bb) Bass Clarinet within the band. nationally and internationally. Recent trips Tuned Percussion Drums/Percussion include Malaysia, Japan, Gallipoli, Vanuatu, Bass Guitar Guitar WILL I BE OBLIGED TO SIGN A Iraq, Bougainville, East Timor, Solomon Vocalist Piano CONTRACT? Islands, England and a national ‘Army in French Horn Bagpipes Concert’ tour. Keyboard If you join the Army full-time, there will be a contract of 3 or 6 years depending on the WHAT ABOUT FITNESS? WHAT MUSICAL STANDARD length of training you have received. DO I HAVE TO BE? The minimum level of fitness for entry into the WHAT TYPE OF MUSIC DO Army is: Minimum performance entry level is YOU PLAY? Males: Females: comparable to AMEB Grade 7 for Unqualified Push-ups 15 Push-ups 8 Entry (to study at the Defence Force School An Australian Army band consists of 35 Sit-ups 45 Sit-ups 45 of Music) and similarly, Associate Diploma for musicians that primarily operate as a Shuttle run level 7.5 Shuttle run level 7.5 Qualified Entry. symphonic concert band. The band regularly A high level of sight reading ability and breaks down into smaller ensembles like jazz HOW MUCH DO I GET PAID? musicianship is what the AABC is seeking. ensembles, rock band, big band, woodwind An audition will be required to assess your & brass quintets, sax quartet, trios, duos, suitability as a musician in the Australian Army soloists and fanfare team. This enables us on the following criteria: to perform all genres of music, from Glenn • performance of three contrasting works Miller to Top 40, Bach to Lloyd Webber and • sight reading everything in between. MAIN MENU | >> FAQ
HOW MUCH DO I GET PAID? IF YOU JOIN THE ARMY SO WHAT HAPPENS NEXT? Full-time: After completing all training, WILL YOU BE DEPLOYED Arrange to visit an AABC band and take your salary will be in excess of $48,000 per OVERSEAS? the opportunity to see the workplace for annum. yourself. Then arrange a no-obligation Bands only deploy into secure operational audition. The enlistment process, post- areas to provide entertainment to troops. Additional benefits include housing rental audition, consists of aptitude, physical, Deployments often consist of a rock subsidies, home loan subsidies, study medical and psychological evaluations. band (formed from a Regular Army Band) assistance, free medical and dental care, Upon successful completion, you will deploying for usually no more than 16 days. travel and personal instruments provided undertake basic soldier training at Wagga as well as a minimum of four weeks annual Wagga, NSW, for 80 days (or 28 days for leave. people wanting to join part-time). Within the Army you have the flexibility to Part-time: your daily rate of pay is around transfer between full-time (Regular Army) $120 tax free (once fully qualified). and part-time (Army Reserve) Bands.
Each full-time band also has 20 part-time positions available.
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HEADQUARTERS Sydney Defence Force School of Music Australian Army Band Sydney Meares House Victoria Barracks Simpson Barracks PADDINGTON NSW 2021 MACLEOD VIC 3085 Phone: (02) 9339 3415 Phone: (03) 9450 7315 Email: [email protected] Townsville 1RAR Band FULL-TIME Lavarack Barracks Brisbane TOWNSVILLE QLD 4813 Phone: (07) 4771 7858 Australian Army Band Brisbane Gallipoli Barracks Wagga Wagga ENOGGERA QLD 4051 Phone: (07) 3332 5923 Australian Army Band Kapooka Blamey Barracks Canberra Kapooka WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2661 The Band of the Royal Military College Phone: (02) 6933 8490 Royal Military College DUNTROON ACT 2600 PART-TIME CONTACTS Phone: (02) 6265 9479
Melbourne Australian Army Band Melbourne Simpson Barracks MACLEOD VIC 3085 Phone: (03) 9450 7338
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PART-TIME Canberra Newcastle 1/15 Royal NSW Lancers Band 2 Smith Street The Band of the Royal Military College Australian Army Band Newcastle Adelaide PARRAMATTA NSW 2150 Royal Military College Bullecourt Barracks Australian Army Band Adelaide Phone: (02) 9635 7822 DUNTROON ACT 2600 Military Road Warradale Barracks Phone: (02) 6265 9479 ADAMSTOWN NSW 2289 WARRADALE SA 5046 23 Field Regiment Band Phone: (02) 4979 3614 Phone: (08) 8305 7066 Chandler Street Darwin KOGARAH NSW 2217 RACT Pipes and Drums 10/27 RSAR Band Australian Army Band Darwin Phone: (02) 9588 2513 Training Depot Keswick Barracks 582 Stuart Highway ADAMSTOWN NSW 2289 KESWICK SA 5035 BERRIMAH NT 0820 Phone: (02) 4979 3614 Tasmania Phone: (08) 8305 6157 Phone: 0417 786 642 Australian Army Band Tasmania Anglesea Barracks Melbourne Perth Brisbane Davey Street Australian Army Band Perth Australian Army Band Brisbane Australian Army Band Melbourne HOBART TAS 7000 Defence Music Centre Western Australia Gallipoli Barracks Simpson Barracks Phone: (03) 6237 7189 Irwin Barracks ENOGGERA QLD 4051 MACLEOD VIC 3085 KARRAKATTA WA 6160 Phone: (07) 3332 5923 Phone: (03) 9450 7338 Phone: (08) 9383 6470 Townsville First Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment Royal Australian Artillery Band Brisbane 2/10 MDM Regiment Band Sydney Lavarack Barracks 1st Field Regiment 8 Chapel Street TOWNSVILLE QLD 4813 Gallipoli Barracks EAST ST KILDA VIC 3182 Australian Army Band Sydney Phone: (07) 4771 7458 ENOGGERA QLD 4051 Phone: (03) 9526 4221 Victoria Barracks Phone: (07) 3332 7494 PADDINGTON NSW 2021 4/19 PWLH Band Phone: (02) 9339 3415 Wagga Wagga QLD University Regiment Band Bougainville Lines Australian Army Band Kapooka Queensland University Simpson Barracks, UNSW Regiment Band Blamey Barracks ST LUCIA QLD 4067 MACLEOD VIC 3085 Day Avenue Kapooka Phone: (07) 3721 4302 Phone: (03) 9450 7898 KENSINGTON NSW 2033 WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2661 (02) 9663 1212 Phone: (02) 6933 8490
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TOWNSVILLE BRISBANE NEWCASTLE
DARWIN
SYDNEY TOWNSVILLE
The map shows the location for all Australian Army Bands. The part-time opportunities are marked in red and both full-time and part-time opportunities are DARWIN marked in white. BRISBANE CANBERRA
PERTH WAGGA NEWCASTLE WAGGA SYDNEY ADELAIDE CANBERRA
PERTH MELBOURNE
MELBOURNE HOBART
ADELAIDE WAGGA WAGGA
HOBART MAIN MENU ROUTINE
ROUTINE Full-time routine: Part-time routine A typical weekly routine for full-time AABC Sport also has a significant role to play in Reserve bands usually have rehearsals once members includes personal performance the ADF and is not only an ideal way of a week, most often on Tuesday evenings development, section practice, marching maintaining fitness but also encourages between 7 – 10pm. Public performances are band, two hours of physical training and a team mentality. With this in mind the generally held no more than once a month, approximately 20 hours of ensemble Australian Army provide opportunities to including the possibility of additional small rehearsals. Administration is required to develop and maintain a high level of skill ensemble performances. be undertaken by various members of the in sport. Adventure training is yet another Basic Fitness Assessments (involving band to ensure the effectiveness of the form of exposing personnel to sports such running, sit ups and push ups) and weapon unit. Of course rehearsal routines may vary as canoeing, caving, abseiling, parachuting, tests are held twice a year, whilst medical throughout the year due to tours, courses, scuba diving and sailing to name just a few. checks are programmed for once a year and recording projects and performances. a dental check once every 5 years.
Like all members of the ADF, AABC The routine for reserve musicians working personnel are required to maintain a basic part-time in Regular Army Bands (full-time level of soldiering skills and physical fitness. bands) is flexible and can be negotiated with Two assessments are held each year to the Music Director. record the member’s level of ability in weapons handling and physical & aerobic fitness. Time is set aside specifically to maintain these skills under the guidance of qualified physical training instructors.
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REGIONAL SUPPORT
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BOUGAINVILLE Click here to read a diary of a deployment to Bougainville
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CANADA
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CHINA
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EAST TIMOR
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ENGLAND
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EDINBURGH
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GREECE
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CRETE
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JAPAN
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MALAYSIA
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SOLOMON ISLANDS
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TURKEY
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UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
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VANUATU
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The Australian Army Band Corps is proud to provide musical support to music education programs and community charity organisations. Producing recordings is another important aspect of remaining relevant To purchase this CD Call (03) 9450 7431 in today’s music industry. Be it jazz CDs raising funds for the homeless or an educational recording, the Band Corps are active members of society supporting the hearts and minds of Australians.
CAMOUFLAGE EXPOSED An award winning big band Jazz album that raised in excess of $30,000 to assist in the rehabilitation of Sydney’s homeless. [Sold-out, however is featured in the AABC recording ‘Just Jazz’]
Nominated as ‘Best Contemporary Australian Jazz Album 2003’ Attained ‘number one’ ranking on Birdland Record’s ‘Top Ten’ listing. Band awarded the Chief of Defence Force Commendation.
Reviews: A CD not to be missed! The section work and high-energy solos are outstanding throughout. Don Burrows
Have a listen to this CD, like me you will enjoy every punchy swinging moment of the album - superb. Jim McLeod - Jazztrack, ABC Classic FM.
The world is clearly changing. Really? Yes.
If an army band is turning its considerable talents away from the articulation of the parade ground to the type of music exemplified by ‘Steps in the Dark’ by Musician Andy Fiddes, then humanity is on the march in a decidedly creative formation. Beautifully structured, moody writing evoking European echoes, nice ensemble.
It all works. The band is called ‘Camouflage’ but I have to tell them that they have blown their cover. They groove. Paul Grabowsky – Director Australian Art Orchestra
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TRIBUTE TO AUSTRALIA’S COLONIAL HERITAGE (To purchase this CD Call (03) 9450 7318) A double compilation CD featuring some of the finest symphonic recordings produced by the AABC spanning 20 years.
JUST JAZZ (To purchase this CD Call (03) 9450 7318) A double compilation CD featuring some of the finest Jazz recordings (featuring Camouflage Exposed) produced by the AABC spanning 20 years.
SALUTE TO THE AUSSIE DIGGER ( To purchase this CD Call (03) 9450 7318) A heartfelt insight into Australian military history with poetry, diary excepts and song - Narrated by Jack Thompson. ‘Be taken to the front-line’.
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REVIEWS - Salute to the Aussie Digger “This moving portrayal of Australia’s proud Military history narrated by Jack Thompson and brought together by modern day soldiers, musicians, and historians, is a wonderful tribute to those who served and an invaluable educational tool for generations following on.” Historian, Dr Jonathan King
“Powerfully presented. A stirring tribute to the diggers who served our nation, produced by their successors and contemporaries. An excellent insight into Australia’s military history.” General Peter Cosgrove AC MC
“A wonderful CD... Jack Thomson reads a powerful narrative telling the story of Aussie Digger’s experience in wars from colonial times to the present. The music is evocative, shifting in style and tempo to capture something of the experience and the times, whilst the authentic sound effects provided by the Australian War Memorial bring this account to life. Legacy is a cause that really matters and this musical tribute does justice to that cause, to the heroism and the tragedy of more than a century of Australians at war.” Historian - Peter Cochrane
“The Australian Army Band Sydney’s effort exemplifies the spirit of the ADF…”
“By taking this step forward – producing this fine CD which portrays so well the spirit of the Aussie digger, and earmarking Legacy for the profits – The Australian Army Band Sydney typifies the spirit of comradeship and ethos of service which shaped Legacy and Australia. We are proud to be involved in this project” Sydney Legacy President, Charles Wright
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SCRIM (To purchase this CD Call (03) 9450 7431) An all original album offering funk, fusion, Latin and jazz. This recording highlights the creative talents of AABC musicians – Produced to assist in the education of improvised music.
This is a Latin/Funk tune somewhat modal in nature. This piece was written initially from the bass line, the drum kit groove was created to suit. The groove is basically a funk samba type groove, the drummer has to pay careful attention to play this type of groove very accurately otherwise the rhythm section will not settle. The tune is basically in Bb minor, while the melody adopts use of the Bb Phrygian mode scale (Bb, Cb, Db, Eb, F, Gb, Ab, Bb) which is played over the Bb min 11 chord. The tune is a simple 8 bar form which at the end has an unusual descending chromatic rhythmic figure, using dominant 7th (#5) chords, leading to a 4 bar interlude.
The salsa section at letter ‘D’ is set up by a 4 bar ‘montuno’, (the montuno is a repetitive rhythm usually played in octaves on the piano). The entire feel of this section of the tune changes to more of a ‘Salsa’ feel especially in the rhythm section. At letter ‘E’ we have an 8 bar interlude type melody based on the Ab ‘mixolydian’ modal scale. The solos section at letter ‘F’ is played generally over an Ab dominant 7th chord while on the 8th measure we have a rhythmic figure that leads us back to the start of the next solo. There is an 8 bar melodic interlude to be played between each soloist at letter ‘E’. Analysis by Musician Rod James-Bland.
SCRIM CD Review: ‘The musicians’ creativity, matched by dedication to their artistry, is evident throughout this recording and is an example of the depth and diversity of musicianship found today in the AABC. The AABC has enjoyed being an important and active member of the music industry, supporting the local community and in this case assisting young musicians to explore musical styles. The SCRIM CD contrasts with previous AABC albums. It shifts from fusion to swing, presenting a small ensemble platform for young musicians to discover and develop their own creativity. It maybe difficult for one to imagine such creativity within a military band, but you will be pleasantly surprised to hear this fine ensemble venture outside the square. We thank the members of SCRIM who have taken the time to express their musicianship in a bid to assist the education of young Australians’. Mike Tyler - Senior Education Officer (The Arts) Education Queensland. Queensland and Federal Chair of the Australian Music Education Board.
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SCRIM MUSO PROFILES: Musician Jeff Camilleri - Bass Jeff has vast experience both as a band leader and a music agency consultant. He has been performing professionally for over 20 years and has amassed an impressive resume. Jeff has worked alongside many Australian acts ranging from Human Nature & Tommy Emmanuel to international artists including Arturo Sandoval & David Sanborn. Jeff regularly performs in the studio as a bassist and vocalist, recording material for advertising jingles including the existing ABC AM 702 Station ID, numerous local and international albums, plus film and television soundtracks. Since joining the AABC in 2005, Jeff has continued to perform with a vast array of Australia’s premier talent and is in constant demand enabling him to continue to explore his musical prowess beyond the AABC.
Musician Rod James-Bland – Drums Rod started his career 25 years ago playing on the pub and club circuit and has been part of the Australian music scene as a live performer and recording musician since that time. He graduated from the Conservatorium of Music in Sydney receiving a Diploma in Jazz studies in 1993 and went on to become a lecturer in drum kit and percussion at the esteemed Australian Institute of Music.
He has performed and recorded with many elite Australian Artists including; Ed Wilson, Don Burrows, Julie Anthony, Doug Parkinson, Emile Nelson, Martin Lass and Dorian Mode just to name a few, as well as international acts “The Supremes” and “The Drifters”. Since joining the AABC in 2004 he has continued to record and perform regularly with Australian and International Artists.
Corporal Richard Hibble - Guitar Richard became a proficient saxophonist early in life and later extended his musical ability by teaching himself guitar. Richard holds a Bachelor of Music, a Graduate Diploma of Education and a Bachelor of Science. Highlights with the Australian Army Band Sydney (AABS) include three deployments to East Timor (2001-2) and the Big Band recording and release of Camouflage Exposed in 2002. His musical influence comes from guitarists Joe Pass, John Schofield and Mike Stern as you may hear in his compositions.
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Musician Marty Ball - Alto Saxophone Marty began playing the saxophone at the age of 11. In 1990 he went to university to study Jazz. He continued regular public performances and composing which soon propelled him into recording studios and onto the airwaves of Adelaide radio. After hearing about the great pay and lifestyle of musicians employed in the Army, Marty decided to enlist as a member of the AABC. Since enlisting, Marty has travelled throughout Australia and overseas. Aside from the three AABS CDs on which he is featured, Marty’s goal is to record & write his own CD. Marty’s influences include David Sanborn, Charlie Parker, Cannon Ball Adderley and Gerald Albright.
Musician Craig Mitten – Trumpet Craig commenced playing trumpet in high school and became the inaugural winner of the Woodville High School ‘most versatile performer’ award in year 12. He realised at an early age that he wanted to make music his life and went on to complete a Bachelor of Music (jazz major). Craig has performed with numerous international artists including Shirley Bassey, Joan Rivers, Chuck Findley and Phil Wilson. Craig, like all members of the AABC, is highly dedicated to his art and has goals beyond his ‘day gig’, aspiring to continue writing and recording originals and pushing the boundaries with his own musicianship - a lifetime pursuit!
Sergeant Peter Bell – Sound Engineer While completing his Bachelor of Music in Performance, Peter enlisted in the Army Reserve and joined the Queensland University Regiment Band to earn some tax free dollars. He transferred to the Australian Regular Army in 2001 and was posted to AABS. His is featured on the AABS Jazz recording Camouflage Exposed, performing trombone and as assistant engineer. He played a significant role in recording, editing and mixing the educational CD Salute to the Aussie Digger, gaining both military and civilian acknowledgment.
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DIARY OF A DEPLOYMENT TO nothing more than decrepit torn down Loloho, the capital of Bougainville. Initially BOUGAINVILLE frames draped in aggressive vines, with the locals were hesitant to approach burnt out vehicles scattered randomly us however they soon began to gather The Australian Army Band Sydney (AABS) along the roadside. All the same, the confidence and edged closer, although were deployed to Bougainville to assist devastation was contrasted by the always maintained a safe distance from the in the peace process by using music as a beautiful picturesque coastline and lush microphone to watch the concert. medium to encourage peace and harmony tropical vegetation. On Saturday the band provided an throughout the island. Another significant evenings entertainment to farewell the role was to elevate the moral of both the Loloho, a port of a copper mine and Commanding Officer of the Arawa team civilian and military personnel posted far where the conflict began, has now been site where many peace negotiations were from their family and friends. transformed into a makeshift military held. The performance began with the camp surrounded by coiled barbed clarinet choir, followed by a small jazz AABS arrived in Bougainville on 1st wire complete with native guards. ensemble and concluded with the full show November 2000 after a brief stop over in The centerpiece, a large ‘A’ framed band. During the course of the evening, Townsville. Thankfully, upon arrival the construction originally used to store a group of ladies from the local Arawa weather was relatively cool for Bougainville copper, now accommodates approximately community performed two vocal pieces standards (90%humidity), so acclimatising 70 - 100 tents and is affectionately known and presented the Commanding Officer was not as torturous as first feared. After as ‘The Opera House’. Although this iron and his family with handmade gifts and a disembarking the RAAF Hercules, the band monstrosity gave some protection from the farewell lei. It was fascinating to hear the was briefed on personal safety in a sak sak tropical storms, it significantly intensified Bougainvillian people performing and to (thatched hut with open sides). Uni-mogs the oppressive heat by limiting air flow. experience a small part of their culture. were used to transport the band along The wharf now only accommodates Naval the heavily potholed roads to Loloho, the vessels supporting the Peace Monitoring The following day the AAB-S split into two Peace Monitoring Group HQ. Group(PMG) and used as a diving platform small bands; one heading North aboard for desperate personnel wishing to cool off. the MSA BROLGA and the other to the The journey painted a clear image of South of the Island travelling by Iraquoi conflict from the past. Once successful The maiden concert was held at the helicoptor. thriving businesses, now reduced to markets in Arawa approximately 7km from
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The Northern Endeavour. Woken to the sonorous call of ‘Wakey Our next destination was Tinputz, a three Wakey’, the band had breakfast and and a half hour journey. Unfortunately The band aptly named the ‘Northern departed in zodiacs to the team site at the ocean had whipped up a ferocious Cruisers’ left Loloho at 8.30am and spent Buka. This resembled a scene from “Water three metre swell overnight and a number most of the day on the upper decks in the Rats in the Pacific” compared to our usual of the members of the band had a very sun taking in the beautiful coastline. They leisurely coach trip. The Buka concert unpleasant time. The concert venue was saw the most amazing marine life on their attracted a large audience of well over 300 situated on top of a huge hill overlooking journey North, including sharks, marlin, natives from the surrounding region. At the the bay and the breeze was unbelievably pods of dolphins and the sea boiling with conclusion of the show, the band was free refreshing. A performance had never been a frenzy of feeding fish. A member of the to wander and soak up the atmosphere of held on the stage and was built solely crew was fortunate enough to hook a Maihi the nearby Buka markets. The majority of for the Reconciliation Ceremony. The Maihi (dolphin fish) one of the worlds most the market was undercover and consisted performance was definitely the highlight prized fighting fish, leaving the rest of the of an amazing array of fruit and vegetables, of the Northern Cruiser’s voyage as the mad keen fisherman green with envy. betel nut, cigars and smoked fish. All were crowd was enormous and very receptive. colourfully displayed on banana leaves and Following the first bracket of the show, Arriving at the Buka entrance the BROLGA artistically hung from ceilings or packed a local village band with the title ‘Black crept gingerly through the passage delicately in woven baskets. Later in the Temple’ performed. Primitive instruments escorted by zodiac inflatable as they were day another concert was scheduled at the such as sticks and shells melded with entering unchartered waters. Buka High School, where on arrival, we electric guitars and drum kit were set up in record time and spent about half utilised to give the band their unique and The greatest threat however were the an hour playing with and taking photos of entertaining style. During their performance number of locals in canoes chasing the the children in the playground. Performing members from the band started dancing, multitudes of fish entering the path of the was particularly difficult due to the arduous eventually encouraging the local ladies BROLGA. Once anchored, a scrumptious humid sticky conditions, however against to join them. The band later found out tea was served followed by an impromptu these odds, the concert went extremely that dancing in public is unacceptable concert for the ship’s company and the well. behaviour in Bougainville, even through the onlooking audience of fisherman.
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local ladies told them they hadn’t enjoyed at high speeds over beautiful aqua waters The following day the band flew to Tonu themselves so much in a long time. Later and coconut palm lined sandy beaches. team site in the Conga region to another that day, a group of small children aged Heading inland over impenetrable jungle, village named Ameu. The concert was about six or seven paddled out to the only hundreds of feet up skimming over performed outside the village church and BROLGA in their canoes. Some of the tree tops and as high as 2000 feet, through after the concert dozens of screaming BROLGA crew gave them ‘Chuppa Chups’ the clouds, to climb over mountains that happy children ran behind the vehicle and word must have got out because would dwarf Mt Kosciusko. to farewell us filling us a full sense of suddenly they were swarmed by canoes accomplishment. milling around the ship. Once they arrived they immediately loaded equipment into 4 wheel drives and made In the evening we tasted the delights of The next day the BROLGA began it’s their way to Aku. The performance was to freshly cut coconuts and pineapple – journey back to Loloho during which a raise funds for the local school and was Delicious! storm caused very unpleasant travelling part of a four day sporting festival. The Locals were invited to attend a weekly conditions for all on board. standard of volleyball was outstanding video screening (Dragonheart) within the which soon gave us second thoughts team site grounds preceded by a short Members from the ‘Northern Cruisers’ had about challenging them. The locals were reggae concert to draw the crowd. a fascinating and memorable trip on board curious but shy and crowded around us the MSA BROLGA, all thanks to the crew cheering for more. Alas! the Bougainville The band took off to Sirakatau at sunrise who were sensational and can’t be thanked weather had its way and a tropical storm and were immediately trucked off to Sovele enough. soon had us packing the equipment into across very rugged terrain and a death a sak sak. The main concern was to get defying land slip crossing. The concert was The Southern Flyers. back to the team site on the other side of delayed as the students, aged from 13 to three rapidly swelling rivers. 30, were all involved in year 8 exams. This Two Vietnam veteran iraquoi helicopters gave just enough time for the band to rest were used to transport all of the equipment That night the team site staff cooked a and allow the cumulonimbus clouds to roll and musicians to the isolated team sites. sensational meal of local chili coconut over the mountains and threaten us once What an exhilarating experience, travelling fish as well as a number of other equally again. However the children’s beaming enticing dishes. smiles shone through the drizzle while
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some local men ripened on “jungle juice’ the concert. One highlight was a machete danced and caused quite a stir. wielding youth who could have quite easily been a Circus Oz daredevil, who performed After the perilous journey to the team a mind boggling display to the music. One site the band set up for the evening of the musicians took the opportunity to concert. Sure as eggs the rain clouds break the ice and play a rock saxophone once again congregated to set the required solo while imitating his movements. The atmosphere while families travelled up to crowd roared appreciatively uniting the three hours from the highlands to witness local people with their visitors from Sydney. possibly their first ‘white’ concert. It was a beautiful sight, the sun reflecting on the All will remember the mutually rewarding rain, the rolling hills as a back drop and and most valuable cultural exchange that hundreds of villagers under the cover of occurred during our time in Bougainville. giant banana leaves making their way to
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© Commonwealth of Australia (Australian Army) 2007
This work is copyright. Apart from any use as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968, no part may be reproduced by any process without prior written permission from the Commonwealth available from the Defence Force School of Music. Requests and inquiries concerning reproduction and rights should be addressed to: The Defence Force School of Music, Meares House, Simpson Barracks, MACLEOD VIC 3085.
Every effort has been made to trace and acknowledge copyright. Where attempt has been unsuccessful, the producer would be pleased to hear from the copyright owner so any omission or error can be rectified.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Written and directed - W02 Rod Mason Graphic design - Chris Shepherd (Defence Publishing Service) Interview filming - Andrew Axon Interview footage editing - Scot McCann Audio demo tracks - SGT Peter Bell Funded by Defence Force Recruiting
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