Who We Are…
The Hills Music Academy (HMA) is a non-profit, community-based organisation that develops and showcases musical talent of all ages in the Hills and surrounding districts of western Sydney. HMA has a strong social element so members have a lot of fun while making great music together.
HMA is led by musical director Garry Clark and comprises a Senior Concert Band for senior levels, and a Concert Band for the younger talents. Members range from 12 years in age to retired, and all newcomers are welcome to sit in and play. The repertoire is diverse; the bands perform everything from marches, to hymns, jazz, golden oldies and even hit singles from the pop charts.
What We Do…
HMA performs at many civic and community events throughout the year, providing music for local events such as Kings Langley Fair, Bella Vista Christmas carols as well as citizenship ceremonies and various gala concerts.
HMA also participates and competes in musical competitions and festivals such as the Yamaha Music Festival, and more recently the State and National Bands Championships.
We play at charity and fundraising events, and have been providing music at the Hills Relay for Life event for over a decade as part of their evening entertainment bracket and candlelight ceremony.
Membership
Concert Band
Membership is open to players with at least three years of playing experience and up to around grade 5 AMEB standard. Membership for this band is $50 per school term.
Senior Concert Band
This band is HMA’s main performance ensemble. Membership is open to all players around grade 5 AMEB standard or above, depending on instrument vacancies. Membership for this band is $50 per school term ($40 for self-supporting students).
We ask our members for a high level of commitment to practice and attendance at rehearsals as well as performances.
Rehearsals
Rehearsals run on Friday evenings during school terms:
- Concert Band from 6:00pm to 7:30pm
- Senior Concert Band from 7:30pm to 9:30pm
Rehearsals are held at Stamford Hall, Balcombe Heights Estate (92 Seven Hills Road, Baulkham Hills). Entry to the estate is location at the intersection of Seven Hills Road and Jasper Road