The unmistakable sound of more than 600 trombonists performing the iconic 76 Trombones echoed through Ipswich as musicians from across Australia united to shatter the world record for the largest trombone ensemble.
The brass-filled performance at Tulmur Place on July 22, more than eclipsed the previous record of 368 trombonists, set in Washington DC in 2012, with a submission now being lodged with Guinness World Records for official verification.
Among those taking part was Tamborine Mountain resident Bernie Klupfel, founder of the Tamborine Mountain Anzac Marching Band.
Mr Klupfel said he made the trip to Ipswich after being encouraged by his partner Joan Mcnamara and was amazed by the scale of the event.
“It was an unforgettable experience,” he said.
“I didn’t realise it was going to be such a big event. It was just great to be part of it.
“You’d get talking to different people in the line and there were musicians from all over Australia. There were people from Longreach, Gympie and even families who had travelled from Canberra.”
Despite not having played his trombone for about 20 years, Mr Klupfel said the performance brought together everyone from young beginners to experienced professionals.
“There were a lot of kids there and some top professional players too,” he said.
“It was one of the most fun experiences I’ve ever been part of. Not many people can say they’ve played in a world record attempt.
“I’m really pleased I went.”
Ipswich City Big Band music director Matt Chambers said the overwhelming community support made the record attempt about far more than simply breaking a world record.
“This is by far one of the most overwhelming moments of my career,” he said.
“The turnout exceeded my expectations, but once everyone was assembled it was the stories of the people participating that really resonated.
“There are so many heavy things in the world today that people forget you just have to release the negativity and have a little fun. Breaking the record is just the little cherry on the top.
Mr Chambers said he hoped the achievement would inspire the next generation of musicians.
“If Sunday lights a little spark with our young musicians to practise, perform and challenge themselves to do something big that impacts others, then I can’t ask for any more,” he said.
“Who knows, the future James Morrison could have been there on the day.”
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