For one night only, Melbourne’s renowned Advent Brass Band will light up Hamer Hall with a centenary Celebration Charity Concert – a feel-good, high-energy musical journey spanning 100 years of history.
The milestone event will bring together a powerhouse lineup, including legendary jazz virtuoso James Morrison, centenarian pianist Romney King, and vocalists Helena McKee, Walter Saluni and Tim Jaques. Expect everything from rich brass harmonies and swing to gospel highlights, Christmas favourites and timeless classics.
Conducted by Reynold W.B. Gilson OAM, the concert honours three generations of Gilson family leadership and a century of dedication to music and community.
“The Advent Brass Band has now reached 100 years of age so what better way to celebrate this than to have a charity 100-year performance?” says Gilson.
“All the proceeds from this celebration will go directly to ADRA. The difference with this performance is that we have Australian brass legend James Morrison as our guest artist and we’re putting together a program that caters to all ages.”
Archival footage, interviews and photographs will trace the band’s century-long journey, while the 50-strong ensemble – including the Advent Youth Band – showcases talent ranging from musicians as young as nine to King himself, who turns 100 this year. Remarkably, he will make history as the oldest performer ever to take the Hamer Hall stage.
With hits like Singin’ in the Rain, I Got Rhythm and All You Need Is Love, the concert promises to entertain and inspire.
Formed in 1925, Advent Brass has been a cornerstone of Melbourne’s music scene, supporting churches, schools, and charities while winning awards at the Australian National Band Championships.
The 100 Year Celebration Charity Concert takes place Sunday 14 September, 5pm at Hamer Hall. Tickets from $24 via Arts Centre Melbourne.
