YOU don’t need years of music lessons or even the ability to read sheet music to help Ipswich make history, according to local musician Bill Johnson.
He will join son Riley and hundreds of fellow brass players in the city’s bid to break a Guinness World Record.
Whether you’re a seasoned musician or someone who has never held a trombone before, anybody can play their part when Ipswich attempts to claim the Guinness World Record for the world’s largest trombone ensemble at Tulmur Place on July 12 as part of SPARK Ipswich.
“It’s bringing the community together through music,” Mr Johnson said.
His own musical journey began more than 40 years ago when he learnt the trombone in high school.
“I started playing when I was in high school about 40 years ago,” he said.
“After I finished school I stopped playing, and I didn’t pick it up again for a long time.”
It wasn’t until Riley developed a passion for music at Churchill State School and Bremer High that Mr Johnson found himself back behind a brass instrument.
“Riley wanted to learn an instrument, so he started on trumpet and joined the RSL Youth and Community Band,” he said.
“They had a concert in Rockhampton and were short on trombone players. Someone said, ‘Dad can play’, even though I hadn’t touched one for about 25 years.”
That chance opportunity reignited his love of performing, and the pair have been playing together ever since.
“We both play together now,” he said.
For Riley, now 25, music has been part of his life since he first picked up a trombone in Grade 5.
His connection to the world record attempt also stretches back years, with campaign organiser Matt Chambers
teaching him throughout much of high school.
“Matt was my music teacher through high school,” Riley said.
When Mr Chambers first floated the ambitious idea of breaking the world record, Riley wasn’t sure just how big it could become.
“He told me he was going to do it and I thought, ‘Good luck’,” he laughed.
The campaign has already surpassed organisers’ original expectations.
The current Guinness World Record of 368 trombonists has stood since 2012, but Mr Johnson believes Ipswich is the perfect place to take on the challenge.
“I think it’s a fantastic idea,” he said.
“If you’ve ever wanted to have a go, this is the perfect opportunity.
“It’ll be something really special for Ipswich.”
