Advent Brass celebrated its 100th anniversary with a charity concert at Melbourne’s Hamer Hall on September 14, raising more than $A50,000 for ADRA.
Founded in 1925 by educationalist and musician William Gilson, the ensemble began as a way to give young people opportunities to develop musical excellence and Christian service. A century later, that focus continues to shape the band’s ministry across the Church and community.
“Its mission 100 years ago was to give young people a musical Christian outreach to serve the church community. That tradition has never wavered,” said current musical director Reynold Gilson.
Across its history, Advent Brass has supported worship services, evangelistic programs and community events throughout Victoria, with performances extending to every state and territory except the Northern Territory. Three generations of the Gilson family have provided leadership since its beginning, contributing to the longevity and stability of the ensemble’s ministry.
The centennial concert brought together around 50 musicians from both Advent Brass and Youth Advent Brass (YAB)—the training program established in 2013 to develop the next generation of brass and percussion players.
The program featured several standout moments, including a piano performance by 100-year-old musician Romney King, who has played with Advent Brass across three generations of Gilson leadership. King, believed to be the oldest musician ever to perform at Hamer Hall, was recently featured on 7NEWS for his remarkable return to the stage.
Internationally recognised Australian musician James Morrison AM joined the ensemble as guest performer, alongside vocal and instrumental soloists from within the Advent Brass community.
For Mr Gilson, who has played with Advent Brass for more than 60 years, the ministry of the ensemble remains as relevant as ever.
“Music ministry is possibly more important in the church today because of the sad world we live in. The Bible portrays music as a tool for spiritual unity and a source of strength in suffering, a means to find hope, joy and a sense of peace.”
The centennial event also continued the band’s longstanding commitment to community support.
“My grandfather and father were big on supporting those in need and this was fundamental to their beliefs as one of the main purposes of Advent Brass,” Mr Gilson said. “I felt ADRA encapsulated the spirit of Advent Brass in one—serving the church and community. I’m happy to say we raised over $A50,000 for ADRA.”
All ticket proceeds from the concert were donated to ADRA projects in Victoria, supporting individuals and families experiencing hardship.
With young musicians now stepping into the ensemble through YAB, Advent Brass leaders are confident the legacy of service and music established in 1925 will continue for future generations.
