REDLANDS musicians have impressed judges at a national festival, with local bands taking out seven awards in the country-wide competition.
The Australian National Online Festival of Bands was held earlier this month, with competing bands submitting recordings of their performances online for judging.
Redland City Bands had a day of filming at Mansfield State High School on February 27.
The concert band in Open B Grade were awarded two gold and two silver awards for their four pieces, while the wind ensemble in Open C Grade won three gold for their three pieces.
Wind ensemble conductor Louise McGill said she was very proud and happy with the group's performance.
"Our results are a testament of the dedication and perseverance of all our musicians. I'm incredibly lucky to be the conductor of not only committed musicians, but wonderful people," she said.
Redland City Bands musical director and concert band conductor Peter Francis said COVID-19 had a devastating effect on live music so it was fantastic to regroup for the national event.
"All of the musicians worked so hard on some very challenging music and the results reflect the effort," he said.
"The greatest strength of our bands is the people and their passion for playing excellent music to the highest level possible. I am looking forward to playing to live audiences this year."
Redland City Bands president Allen Clark said both bands had improved significantly since their last foray onto the national stage in 2019.
The bands will welcome audiences back at their season opening concerts on May 8 at the Cleveland Assembly Hall.
The first show will feature Redland City Concert Band and Boonah Community Band from 3pm.
The second concert at 7pm will feature the wind ensemble and beginner band with a rock and pop song theme.
There will also be a dance night featuring the big band on May 15.
Redland City Bands are also looking for new players to join their bands, particularly the beginner concert band and big band.
They cater for musicians of different levels and a wide variety of music styles.
Email redlandcitybands@gmail.com
More information about the concerts will be available on the Redland City Bands Facebook page or at redlandcitybands.org.au.