One of the region’s newest grassroots bands is going from strength to strength, thanks to support from its community.
With the help of the Community Bank Lara District, other local organisations and the community itself, the Lara Big Band is now firmly established just 18 months after forming in early 2023.
The ensemble had its beginnings in a series of social media posts by Dr Cameron Anderson enquiring after likeminded amateur musicians keen to play.
Before long the big band had taken shape, and before they had even played their first gig, Community Bank Lara District stepped up, providing them with a $5500 grant to buy a drum kit, music stands and other basic equipment.
A second grant in April this year for a similar amount has allowed the Lara Big Band to purchase the necessary PA and backline equipment to be able to perform at any venue without support.
Dr Anderson said the bank’s contributions, both financially and otherwise, had been “absolutely crucial”, as had the support of the wider community.
“There’s a little bit of community pride (which is) proving to be really powerful,” he said.
“We’re getting a lot of support from a lot of avenues, other community groups who are wrapping around us because of that community identity.”
The band is now performing regularly, with upcoming gigs at the Lara Community Centre Christmas event on December 6 and at Christmas in Lara on December 20.
Dr Anderson encouraged anyone interested in joining the Lara Big Band to contact him at hello@larabigband.org or at one of the band’s performances.
