Marion City Band was established in 1969, and with support from the City of Marion Council, the first set of instruments and a band uniforms were purchased.  With initially opportunity for students from Mitchell Park Boys’ Technical College to continue their musical education after graduating, and for community members with musical ability to continue to enjoy and develop their skills, the relationship with the City of Marion continues to be a strong component of the bands success.

During 2004 to 2016, there was significant growth in membership.  Various changes over this time saw the training band Warriparinga brass moving to a competition band, initially in D grade, then to C grade, and Marion City Band as an competing ensemble moved from C Grade Brass to B Grade Brass.   Continuing expansion in ability levels during this time led to the establishing a newer training and development band ensemble, being Heaven Brass, as an entry point band for learner, junior and non competition players.

Marion City band continues to create a positive, encouraging and inclusive environment for members of the community to discover, develop or continue their interest in music through participation in a fun, busy and family friendly brass band.   

With the interests of the organisation being considered to best meet player needs, in 2024 Marion City Band re-evaluated ensembles and mid year commenced restructuring to a core Marion City Band (competition band) ensemble and Warriparinga Brass (non-competition) development/training band. 





2024 Development Program: Warriparinga Brass (previously Heaven Brass)

With the aims of our constitution in mind, an education and development program continues to be an integral focus for our community organisation, in not only making brass band community music playing available to anyone wanting to give it a try, but providing an internal development opportunity for those transitioning between instruments, and wishing to not be in a "competitive"forum.

• Our development program accepts students of all ages and caters to individuals who have zero or very little experience in playing brass/percussion instruments. While the program is structured towards learning the skills of brass/percussion musicianship, its main focus is instilling an enjoyment for learning in learners.
• Early stages of the program involve small group and (where possible) individual lessons in order to teach the basics of playing brass and percussion instruments
  • Small group lessons are taught by experienced musicians and are conducted under the supervision of the Musical Director and assistant tutuors.
  • Pupils developed to read and play basic music, and are able to progress to a competitive ensemble level as their skills develop.
  • There is no pressure or time line for learning, with some members very happy to stay within the development group environment and enjoy the experience.
• Members in the Marion City Band ensemble are encouraged to support within the development ensemble anytime they are available.  

The cost of any group tuition and instrument hire is included in the quarterly fees charged by the band.  Members are encouraged to seek individual tuition and if purchase or have their own instrument are welcome to use them also.

Ensuring that tuition and instrument hire is affordable is a community commitment of the band, and with continuing support from the City of Marion Council, and ongoing band fundraising efforts, we are able to provide a fantastic brass band program for community enjoyment.