All-female brass collective Bras and Brass will join the Marlborough District Brass Band at the Whitehaven Theatre this Sunday for Pink Rhythm and Groove, a vibrant, high-energy fundraising concert in support of the Breast Cancer Foundation NZ.
The Marlborough event is being organised by founding member and local percussionist Aimee Moore, who serves as the band's "girl on the ground" in the region.
"As a younger person who has already lost two friends to breast cancer in recent years, being part of Bras and Brass is a deeply personal and meaningful way for me to help raise funds and awareness for the Breast Cancer Foundation," says Aimee.
Made up of talented brass and percussion musicians from across Aotearoa, the ensemble is renowned for its energetic performances, blending traditional brass band repertoire with contemporary favourites to create an entertaining experience for audiences of all ages.
The concert is part of the group's ongoing mission to make live brass music more accessible while giving back through charitable performances. Proceeds from the event will support breast cancer research and services through the Breast Cancer Foundation NZ.
"Marlborough is incredibly fortunate to have such a strong and supportive brass band community. By bringing Bras and Brass back to Blenheim for the first time since 2018, we hope to attract a large audience and raise as much money as possible for this important cause. The programme features a lively mix of well-known, upbeat music, creating an enjoyable afternoon for the whole family while supporting a charity that touches the lives of so many," Aimee says.
Bras and Brass was founded by Mike Sander in 2018 after he saw a similar ensemble perform at the British Brass Band Championship Finals at London's Royal Albert Hall.
"It brought thoughts back to me about a close friend's girlfriend, who lost her life to breast cancer," Mike says.
"It dawned on me that something needed to be done, and a band like the British group should be formed in New Zealand to spread awareness of breast cancer among brass musicians. In 2024, the Bras and Brass Foundation became a registered charitable trust. With public support, we are well on our way to making a difference."
Pink Rhythm and Groove
Sunday, 5 July, 2pm
Whitehaven Theatre, Blenheim
