IT CAME as music to the ears of students from across the Murrumbidgee that the Youth Town Band had resumed rehearsals.
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Both junior and senior bands are playing again after a six month absence, now with a change in venue to suit social distancing guidelines.
Student mentor and euphonium aficionado, Rhys Thomas, is particularly glad to see the students enjoying music once again.
"It's good to get everyone back together and to start making a bit more progress," Mr Thomas said.
"It's something they really get a kick out of.
"They quite like the social aspect of it, they like the idea of getting together and making music."
The voluntary program sees amateur musicians from cross the MIA rehearse together using orchestral instruments.
Playing instruments from an early age is proven to have a positive impact on a child's learning and development, teaching them resilience, teamwork and many different life skills.
Mentor Toni Howard says these experiences are vital for any child.
"When they're playing their brains are working in a way that other activities just can't provide," Ms Howard said.
"It builds their self-esteem, their resilience and it gives them a good social outlet.
"We find the kids are coming here not just for the music, but for all of the other attributes you can enjoy when you're in a band."
The Youth Town Band are currently practicing for the State Band Championships, which will be held virtually later in the year.
Last year Griffith's finest finished in third place.
"Our aim this year is to work towards that goal of the State Band Championships," Ms Howard said.
"It's been a change of day, a change of routine, but we're really happy with how it's started off.
"Hopefully this year we can do better than last, here's hoping."
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