Band celebrates 265 years by four members
The Takaka Citizens’ Band is 128 years old and, in its long and meritorious history, has been sustained by the involvement of key families and extraordinarily long service by individuals. Both will be celebrated at this year’s grand Christmas breakup in the Junction Hotel on Sunday.
In all, 20 band members will receive recognition for a combined 560 years of service to the band. Four of the band’s stalwarts will receive extra special recognition, however.
Crowther Reynish joined the band in 1949 and has served in virtually every post since then. He has been the president of the band since 2002. Brian Petterson has served 63 years as a bandsman, and Ron Swan has done 67 years. Both Ron and Brian have been conductors of the band, Ron for 22 years.
Max Page will receive recognition of his extraordinary 75 years of continuous service to the band. Max, a sprightly 8? year-old, plays the E Flat Bass, attends all band practices and turns up early to arrange the furniture for play-outs. He joined the band in 1934 and has been a life member since 1984.
Band vice president Barry Cashman said that the band was pleased to be able to recognise the outstanding service of the four longest-serving members.
“These four guys have clocked up a combined 265 years of continuous service,” said Barry. “That’s some sort of record.”
Crowther said that the things he liked best about the band were its family connections and its inclusiveness.
“Old and young, longstanding locals and relative newcomers – there’s a place for everyone who can play.”
Before Sunday’s awards celebration the band will play a public concert in the Junction Hotel car park, beginning at 12 noon.
Neil Wilson
