We began life as the St Joseph's Total Abstinence Society - a group charged with aim of reducing drinking in the colonial settlement of Launceston by providing entertainment through music. Attached to St Joseph's Church, where the Church of Apostles now stands (corner of Margaret and York Streets, Launceston) St Joseph's continued to have and association with the catholic church until well into the twentieth century.
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St Joseph's have undergone many changes during its lifetime. From the late 1970s through most of the 1980s we introduced the concept of the concert band into Launceston. In 1988 the big band began and continued the proud traditions of St Joseph's into the new century with a great new sound.
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St Joseph's has had many members over its 150+ year history. Without a doubt the most famous was Alex Lithgow, internationally renowned composer of and bandmaster for over 30 years. One of his original trumpets is still held at St Joe's, along with many other items of memorabilia, including old instruments, uniforms, photographs and awards and badges.
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If you happen to have any further photos or memories of St Joe's, please do not hesitate to contact us. We always welcome visitors to the band room.