Lifestyle & Entertainment
11 September, 2025
Striking the right note
THE Ararat City Band has welcomed its newest leader, Wade Carmen, who has been at the helm for the past six months following the departure of former musical director Bruno Andrade in March.
Wade has stepped into the role with enthusiasm and has been warmly embraced by the band.
Growing up in the region and attending school in both Ararat and Stawell, Wade first picked up the trombone in Year 8 with the Stawell Brass Band.
“I’ve played with Ararat on and off since then,” he said.
Wade made his return to the city band earlier this year when he was approached to take on the top job.
“Earlier this year, when they gave me the call and said we’re looking for somebody, it all worked out,” Wade said.
“They spoke amongst themselves of who they’d approach, they approached me, and I was foolish enough to say yes.”
Over the years, he has also taken up the tuba, performing with symphony orchestras, brass bands, concert groups and show bands, even touring in China and Europe.
“It’s only a hobby for me, and the opportunities that I’ve been given are just phenomenal, and I’d like to offer some of those opportunities to other people as well,” he said.
In the short time since stepping up, Wade has already seen growth in the band.
“I’m really enjoying it, it’s only been a few months, we’ve had five new members turn up so far, which is fantastic. We are doing great, it’s a quality bunch. I’m setting the bar a little higher every week,” he said.
Following a recent strategy meeting, the band hopes to establish an academy open to beginners of all ages, aimed at building interest and creating a strong future for local banding.
For Wade, the focus is clear.
“Banding should be more than just sitting down playing marches, we’ve got to actually connect to our audience. So I’m bringing a new perspective on how to connect to the audience, which is testing these guys a lot.”
Plans are already underway for upcoming performances, including hopes for the Golden Gateway Variety Show.
Wade is also keen to explore less traditional opportunities.
“Play more. In front of an audience, not in the band room. We just want to get out and play,” he said.
He’s even floated the idea of performing at the local parkrun.
“We practice to perform. If we’re not performing, what are we?”
With some fresh ideas and a new conductor, the future is looking to be perfectly pitched for the Ararat City Band.
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