‘We share our passion for music with our community, seek to improve our musicianship and challenge ourselves at contests with friends in the banding world.’
Founded in 2006, Northern Brass emerged as a nurturing environment for aspiring young brass players, providing the support and resources necessary for skill development, empowering them to strive for higher grades. Within a few years of its formation, they established a remarkable contesting legacy, capturing the D Grade Australian National title in 2007 and achieving consecutive victories in the C Grade Australian National title in 2009, 2014, and 2015.
Their sustained success led to an exciting invitation to compete in the B Grade division at both the National and State levels, in late 2015. In 2017, the band made waves by placing for the first time in B Grade at the Victorian State Band Championships, solidifying their status as a true contender in the Victorian banding scene. They followed this achievement with a stunning victory in B Grade at the Latrobe Valley Eisteddfod, finishing 2nd in A Grade, showcasing their versatility and talent.
In the wake of the challenging reformation after COVID-19 and their reassignment to the C Grade division, Northern Brass continues to shine brightly, most notably achieving the C Grade title at both the Latrobe Valley Eisteddfod and the Bendigo Eisteddfod in 2024.
Northern Brass captivates audiences with vibrant performances at venues such as the Darebin Arts Centre, Preston City Hall, and the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie, in addition to the annual Darebin Council ANZAC Parade. As they inspire and uplift the brass community, Northern Brass is a band to watch, embodying the spirit of perseverance, teamwork, and musical excellence.
Musical Director
Current
Bethany McAuliffe D’Rozario
Bethany is a dedicated and accomplished young flugelhorn and cornet player based in Victoria, Australia. Beginning her musical journey at age 10 with Jack’s Juniors at Darebin City Brass, she quickly progressed through the ranks, joining Northern Brass (C Grade) at 12 and advancing to the Preston Band, Victoria’s premier brass band, at 13. Starting on third cornet, she now holds a principal seat as the band’s flugelhorn soloist.
She has held prominent leadership positions across several brass bands. She was Principal Cornet of the Hyde Street Youth Band (2019–2024) and the Victorian State Youth Brass Band (2021–2024), and has also performed with the renowned Victoria Brass.
Classically trained, she studied at the Victorian College of the Arts Secondary School (VCASS) from Year 7 through Year 12 and is currently continuing her classical trumpet studies at the University of Melbourne.
She led the Hyde Street Youth Band from 2022 to 2024 and currently conducts Northern Brass, while also directing various school-based concert bands. She teaches numerous private students both in schools and independently.
Past
2023-2025: Martyn Scrimshaw
2018-2023: Marc Nethercot
2013-2018: Jamie Lawson
2012-2013: Andrew Power