Its members may be far apart in age, but they all share a common love of music.

The Lake Macquarie Winds band, formed in 1977, has been bringing together the young and the old for decades.

Member Karen Aubrey, who has played with the band for more than 40 years, says she has created some wonderful memories with the group.

“Most memorable of these would be the time we travelled to Adelaide and successfully participated in the national titles,” she says.

“I also remember the impromptu concerts we performed while sightseeing and many other fun times.”

She adds that being a band member “provides a great opportunity to socialise and play music with others who share a common interest”.

At just 16-years-old, Sarah Bernasconi is one of the band’s youngest members.

She says it is a privilege to be a part of the group and that music is a big part of her life.

“My love of music is something that I live daily through constant flute practice, listening to all genres of music and singing,” she says.

“Music helps me think creatively and logically which is a massive help with my academic studies. 

“Logic aside, music provides me with an emotional escape that is rarely found in anything else that I do for fun.”

Bernasconi is lucky enough to be mentored by more experienced members, including Aubrey and Director Dr Mark Pinner.

“Being a part of such a supportive community, filled with such talented musicians is an absolute privilege,” Bernasconi says.

Pinner has been a professional musician for 40 years performing on the clarinet, bassoon and piano in all genres of music.

He is also an accomplished conductor and musical director and, with a PhD in musicology, he is a source of great wisdom for the band.

Lake Macquarie Winds is seeking new members. It encourages anyone to join, connect with like-minded people, and provide entertainment for audiences in the local community.

Go to windband.org.au or email [email protected] for more information.