Ryman Healthcare enlists with the Royal New Zealand Artillery Band

Two-year deal means residents will hear the best of New Zealand’s oldest band

Ryman Healthcare has signed up to sponsor New Zealand’s most historic band.

The Royal New Zealand Artillery Band was founded 152 years ago and is made up of 30 volunteers who play everything from military marches and light classics through to sacred items, swing and show tunes.

Band secretary Bob Davis said that with so many seniors in their audiences it seemed a natural partnership between New Zealand’s oldest band and the country’s largest retirement village operator.

The band has a programme of 12 concerts at Ryman villages planned for the next two years as part of the new sponsorship deal, including a visit to Weary Dunlop Retirement Village – Ryman’s first new village in Melbourne.

The Royal New Zealand Artillery Band was founded in 1864 but lost its funding from the NZ Defence Force after a major costs review in 2012. Since then the band has looked to other sources to help bridge the funding gap.

Brass bands are not cheap to run. While all the musicians are volunteers the band needs corporate sponsors to meet its operational expenses including instruments, insurance, travel and the upkeep of its band room and uniforms.

Simon Challies, Managing Director of Ryman Healthcare, said the band had made a compelling case for sponsorship.

“We couldn’t say no. We were delighted to be approached and to be able to sponsor the band because we know our residents love its music and there’s nothing like a brass band in full flight. We know the sponsorship money will help the band get out to perform its magic to thousands of people, and we are pleased to be in a position to help.’’

ENDS

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