About Us

Our Purpose

The Bras and Brass Foundation was established as a registered incorporated charitable trust in April 2024 to formalise our commitment to the New Zealand community. We are an inclusive, self-funded group of musicians who believe in the power of fellowship and the strength of music to make a real-world difference. 

Our Charitable Objectives

The principal objectives of the Foundation, as outlined in our charter, are to:

• Support Fundraising Efforts: Actively championing the fundraising initiatives of the Bras and Brass Band to maximise our impact.

• Raise Awareness: Educating both women and men across the country on the importance of breast cancer awareness and health.

• Support Research: Providing vital funding to the Breast Cancer Foundation of New Zealand to support life-saving breast cancer research.

• Support Our Musicians: Providing a community of care and fellowship for brass musicians across New Zealand who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. 

By bringing these goals together, we ensure that every performance is not just a musical gathering, but a powerful step toward raising funds and awareness for an excellent cause.

The First Note

Bras and Brass held its very first gathering and performance in Wellington in April 2018, under the baton of David Bremner. What started as an idea to bring women together has grown into a nationwide sisterhood of over 100 registered players.

Fought the Good Fight

Our history is marked by the strength of our members. We remember our founding member, dear Lou, whose legacy remains at the heart of every performance. We celebrate our sisters who have fought the "Big C" and won, and we take pride in the fact that even a global pandemic couldn't keep a good woman down.

The "Family Reunion"

For those who have played with us, you know the feeling. Every gathering is less like a rehearsal and more like a family reunion. We come together to make fun, challenging music and to enjoy the irreplaceable fellowship of our wide membership.

Looking Ahead

As we look to the next few years, we are excited to take our "men and women in pink" to different corners of New Zealand. We look forward to collaborating with local bands, putting on entertaining concerts, and continuing to roar for an excellent cause.