There's no such thing as a free lunch, but there might be a free introduction for kids playing brass band music in Port Macquarie.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
A local music program is being launched in town to provide free musical instruments donated by the Salvation Army and free lessons to kids.
Director David James, who attends Salvation Army church and has been involved in music for 30 years said this project would be similar to one he'd set up in Hurstville, southern Sydney.
"Children would receive an instrument as part of the Just Brass program, which is run in different locations," he said.
"I started the one in Hurstville about five years ago, moved to Port Macquarie and thought we should get something going here.
"There may not be enough room in kids schedules for similar programs at school, so we can planning to hold it after school around 4pm as a weekly thing to fit in."
The project will kick off with an open day at the Salvation Army on Lord Street in Port Macquarie from 4pm on May 6.
It's hoped around 30 to 50 children will sign up and prepare for lessons to begin four weeks after the open day.
"We would supply the music books, bags, polo shirts and have a lot of instruments from Sydney," he said.
"There is also funding from Salvation Army, we have around 15 teachers with salvos and police checks.
"The resources are there."
Instruments on offer could include trumpets, cornet, tenor horn, trombone, baritone, tuba and drums.
The project aims to have one concert a year as a group performance.
Also making news, sport and what's on:
While you're with us, you can now receive updates straight to your inbox from the Port Macquarie News. To make sure you're up to date with all the news, SIGN UP HERE.